Spring gobbler season is about to get underway, with a youth/mentor hunt. My son is 11 years old and it will be his first year as a hunter. For years he has listened to all of the hunting stories from myself and his grandfather and uncles. I know how excited he is, because the first time I went hunting, I definitely was. Anyone who has spring turkey hunted, knows how intense it can be when you call in a "Big Tom".
The gobbler gets to within 20 yards of you, strutting around looking for the hen that he thinks is there. Now, I will tell you, I am a veteran hunter, but when that big tom comes in, you can actually hear the thumping coming from his chest when he gobbles at 20 yards. It is LOUD! I usually have to take a moment to collect myself before I set the sights on him. What I will have to do is teach my son to sit very still while all of this excitement is going on, because a turkey can see very well and any movement at all...and he is GONE.
The trick to teaching your son or daughter for turkey hunting is to be ready with the gun. That means have your gun in shooting position BEFORE the turkey comes into view.
Trust me, 90% of the time when you are calling in a turkey, you will hear him gobbling for up to 300 yards away, giving you ample time to pick your spot. Now, I don't know who will be more excited, my son or I, but I do know it is going to be fun!