Last year, I had my first experience hunting wild turkey. Honestly, when I was offered to try it, I was far from convinced. Being a big game hunting enthusiast, this type of hunting didn't particularly appeal to me. However, as time went on, this opportunity kept running through my mind. After all, every hunting experience is a chance to learn and escape into nature. So I decided to embark on this new adventure.
Preparations: equipment and training
Before leaving, I took an online course on wild turkey hunting. I also invested in several calls from the Extrême C.G. company, appreciating their wide variety, and I started practicing. As for equipment, good camouflage was essential. I chose the Dynamo set from Sportchief, with its X-Unity Light pattern, ideal for blending into the surroundings. All that was left was to wait for the day of departure.
Field experience
Finally, the long-awaited moment has arrived. Accompanied by my faithful hunting partner, my spouse, we hit the road with our enclosed trailer, which served as our campsite. After nearly ten hours of driving, we arrived at our destination, where our friends were waiting for us.
For my first outing, I was lucky to be guided by Steve Richer. Together, we hunted with a shotgun, and I managed to harvest my first Jake. My camouflage was so effective that the turkey didn't even detect me! It was an adrenaline-filled moment.
In the following days, it was Sylvain Richer who accompanied me. After a long effort to attract a big, beautiful Tom, I had the dream opportunity... but I missed my shot. I might regret it for a long time! Despite that, between a harvest and a failure, I discovered an unexpected passion for this hunt.
A new challenge: learning by myself
Motivated by this experience, I decided to try my luck again the following year. This time, I wanted to be independent, learn, and trust myself. Quickly, I realized that the task would be more challenging than expected. The wild turkey is a cunning game bird, endowed with sharp eyesight and an excellent auditory memory.
Getting up at 3 a.m., observing their behaviors, using the right calls at the right time, and managing to bring them within shooting range... so many challenges to master! My week has been eventful. From the very first day, two big Toms accompanied by their females showed up, but they stayed out of range. Obviously, with so many females around them, my attempts at vocalizations were not enough to attract them.
The moment of truth
Throughout the week, I experienced similar situations. With the deadline approaching, my partner and I decided to go prospecting again to spot other turkeys. We found a promising new location: last chance!
On the morning of my last day of hunting, Steve Richer accompanied me once again. It was raining, and despite our calls, no turkey responded. Then, against all odds, a female appeared, followed by four Jakes. It wasn't the big Tom I had hoped for, but it was my last opportunity... Boom, Boom, a double! My 2024 harvest was finally successful! It just goes to show, nothing is ever over until it's over!
A well-rooted passion
This week of hunting has definitely converted me. The interaction with the wild turkey is more than exciting. I still have a lot to learn, but I feed on these intense and emotion-filled moments. One thing is certain: the 2025 season will be on schedule!
10 questions and answers about wild turkey hunting in Quebec
1. When can wild turkey hunting take place in Quebec?
Spring hunting is generally allowed from late April to mid-May, depending on the areas. Autumn hunting is also permitted in certain areas, usually at the end of October.
2. Is it necessary to take specific training to hunt wild turkey in Quebec?
Yes, it is mandatory to take and pass the course "Biology and Hunting of Wild Turkey in Quebec" offered online by the Fédération québécoise des chasseurs et pêcheurs. This training leads to obtaining the certificate required to hunt wild turkey.
3. What is the recommended basic equipment to start wild turkey hunting?
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A camouflage set adapted to the environment.
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A hunting rifle (caliber 12 or 20) with appropriate ammunition.
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One or more decoys.
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A valid hunting license and the training certificate.
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A map of hunting areas.
4. Is it necessary to use a call to hunt wild turkey?
Yes, using a call is essential to attract wild turkeys, especially during spring hunting.
5. What is the best time to hunt wild turkey in Quebec?
Hunting is allowed from half an hour before sunrise until noon. Turkeys are more active early in the morning, making this period ideal for hunting.
6. What is the difference between a Jake and a Tom?
A Jake is a young male about one year old with a small beard, while a Tom is a mature male with a longer beard and a more massive body.
7. Is wild turkey hunting physically demanding?
Yes, it can be, because it involves long periods of waiting, traveling for prospecting, and very early mornings.
8. Can you hunt wild turkey in pairs in Quebec?
Yes, hunting in pairs is allowed and can be beneficial for beginners, allowing for increased learning and a shared experience.
9. How to transport a harvested wild turkey?
Once gutted, the turkey can be transported in a bag or cooler. It is important to keep the beard for verification purposes during the mandatory catch registration.
10. What do you do with a wild turkey once you're home?
The wild turkey can be cooked in various ways: roasted, stewed, smoked, etc. Its meat is flavorful and generally leaner than that of the domestic turkey.
