First time really trying

[huntingman]

I've been with my friends a few times in the fall hunting, but this is my first time getting serious turkey hunting. I just ordered an Accu-choke 26" Barrel. And i'm getting a Jake and hen decoy from cabelas, i was thinking a box call? Or a slate? Also what loads? My mossberg 500 shoots 2 3/4 and 3 inch shells. I was gonna try Remington Nitro Turkey loads, in #5's? Also what choke should i use? Completely knew at this and i have tons on questions
thanks.

[oldhoyt]

I shoot a 500 with the standard full choke, with Winchester Supreme 3" #6 Turkey loads. It is a killer out to 35 yds. I have used #5 in the past too, and they killed birds just fine. I have switched to #6 simply because each shell contains almost 100 more pellets than #5, and I don't shoot a real tight choke. Many guys use tighter chokes than standard full, but if you don't shoot more than 35 you should be OK. Be sure to pattern the gun before hunting.

A box call is probably easiest to learn to use. I use box calls, slates and diaphram calls. Diaphram calls take the most practice, but they are hands-free which really helps after you have seen the bird. Also, friction calls can be affected by wet weather.

I use a hen decoy, and I've had good luck with it. Position the decoy to face away from where you think a bird will come. This way the Tom will have to circle the decoy.

Beginners (and also veterans) can be tempted to over-call. Go by what you hear the birds doing. If you hear a hen calling, do what she does. Try to get her aggravated and she'll often come to find the new "hen". She may bring you a Tom.

Don't get discouraged when you don't hear gobbling. Quite a few of my birds have come in silently. Be patient and give each spot at least an hour if not more. Don't worry if you don't see anything right off in the AM, I've had great luck between 10 AM and 2 PM.

If you do get a shot at a Tom, aim just below the head.

[huntingman]

Thanks for the advice! That helps alot!

[hunter7x]

Good info from oldhoyt,
lots and lots and lots of choke and shell choices. You just about have to do exactly what your doing and ask questions. The interweb can be your friend! Check out a turkey hunting site like osageroost, its mainly turkey hunting only and has a wealth of info on it and is newby friendly.
Be prepred to be obsessed It can all be as simple as you want it to be or as complex as you allow it to be.

[huntingman]

Alrighty! I think i'm gonna try a full choke will a 3" #5's!

[elmo]

I have a 500 as well, mine is a 20 gauge. I have a xtra full turkey choke in it and it likes the winchester supreme #5's. I tried remington nitro turkey #6's but it didn't pattern as good. I personally won't shoot over 40 yards even with the extra full choke.