This Saturday marks the start of a tradition that blends patience, strategy, and a deep connection to the outdoors. But success doesn’t start in the woods — it starts well before sunrise, with preparation that can make or break your hunt, and your health.

One of the first decisions every turkey hunter faces is how to call in a bird. For seasoned hunters, mouth calls offer versatility and hands-free operation, but they come with a learning curve.

Mastering tone, cadence, and realism takes time, often more than a single preseason can provide. If you’re still developing that skill, don’t sweat it. Mechanical calls like box calls and slate calls remain incredibly effective. They’re user-friendly, reliable, and capable of producing the yelps, clucks, and purrs that bring gobblers into range. Pair those calls with lifelike decoys, and you’ve got a setup that can convince even the wariest tom that it’s safe to step closer.

Timing is everything in turkey hunting, and the legal shooting window in New York gives you a focused opportunity: from 30 minutes before sunrise until noon. That early morning window is prime time, when gobblers are most vocal and responsive. Being set up and ready before first light isn’t optional — it’s essential. Scout your location ahead of time, know where birds are roosting and plan your access route to avoid detection.

Young Jack Uhteg, middle, mentored by Adam Nezel, left, and Ryan Van Lew, bagged a nice bird during youth hunting weekend last Sunday. The birds are out there. Photo courtesy of Ryan Van Lew

Understanding the rules is just as important as knowing your gear. The spring season allows for a harvest total of two birds, but only one per day. That means every shot counts. Patience and discipline are key. Rushing a shot or pushing too aggressively can cost you not just a bird, but potentially your entire morning.

Wild turkeys are wary, they present a challenge worthy of respect. Their eyesight is exceptional — arguably their greatest defense. They can pick up the slightest movement or unnatural shape from remarkable distances. That’s why full camouflage isn’t just recommended, it’s a must. From head to toe, every inch of exposed skin should be concealed. Face masks, gloves, and carefully chosen camo patterns can help you blend seamlessly into your surroundings. Even small details, like the shine of a watch or the movement of your hands, can give you away.

But while you’re focused on outsmarting turkeys, don’t overlook a quieter, more persistent threat: deer ticks. Spring in New York means deer ticks are active, and with them comes the risk of Lyme disease. Preparation here is just as critical as your hunting setup. Treat your outerwear with Permethrin well in advance. Don’t wait until the night before. This insect repellent bonds to fabric and remains effective through multiple wears and six washings, creating a protective barrier for you that kills ticks upon their contact. You need that. Combine that with routine tick checks after the hunt in the shower. You’ll significantly reduce your risk.

Comfort and readiness go hand in hand. Pack smart: extra layers for chilly mornings, water, snacks, and any gear you might need to stay comfortable. The more prepared you are, the more patient you can be, and patience is often what separates a close call from a successful harvest.

Opening day isn’t just about filling a tag. The experience is unforgettable — the quiet woods at dawn, the thrill of a distant gobble in the tree tops, and the satisfaction of knowing you’ve done everything right to be ready.

With thoughtful preparation, the right gear, and attention to tick awareness detail, you’ll step into the season confident and focused. So get your calls tuned, your camo treated, and your plan locked in. The woods are waking up and the gobblers are waiting.

Gotta love the outdoors.

Outdoors Calendar

May 1: Opening Day for walleye, northern pike, pickerel, tiger musky. Visit dec.ny.gov.

May 1-31: NYS spring turkey season, visit dec.ny.gov.

May 4: Chautauqua County Sportsmen Annual Federation Banquet, Lakewood Rod and Gun, 433 East Terrace, Lakewood.

May 5: Children in the Stream, Youth Fly Fishing program, free, Costello Room, Rockefeller Art Center, SUNY Fredonia, 7-8:30 p.m., 12yrs old and older, info: 716-410-7003 (Alberto Rey).

Submit calendar items to forrestfisher35@yahoo.com at least 10 days in advance.