ODNR Division of Wildlife - Hunting & Trapping - Turkey Hunting

Turkey Hunting Safety

Before the hunt

  • Turkey hunterCheck with your doctor if you have any medical concerns.
  • Hunt within your physical limitations.
  • Let your hunting partners know if you have physical limitations.
  • Let someone know where you are hunting and when you expect to return.
  • Have a basic understanding of first aid.

During the hunt

  • Set up against a tree that is greater in diameter than the width of your shoulders and taller than your head whenever possible for maximum safety.
  • Should you see other hunters (especially close to your line of sight) call out to them in a loud, clear voice. Their presence has already compromised your location and a soft call may only confuse them instead of alerting them to your presence.
  • From a seated position, identify the clearest line of vision to your front. Establish a sight line that allows you 100 yards visibility. Then set your decoy(s) approximately 20 yards from your position on the line.
  • If you are calling over decoys and elect to move to a new location, check carefully to ensure that no one is stalking your decoys. Check before leaving your set up. Should you see someone in the area, call out to them in a loud, clear voice.

For more information on turkey hunting safety, contact the NWTF at 1-800-THE NWTF or check out their web site for turkey hunting information at www.nwtf.org. —NWTF Turkey Hunting Safety Task Force