I'm hunting central MN and the two times I've been out I have yet to hear a hen yelp once. I got some jakes to gobble from the roost today, but once they were down, they walked right past my decoys (3 hens) and kept moving - seemingly uninterested.
I'm wondering if mating isn't really in full swing yet?
Any advice?
Late in the season they get wise and shut up.
This is only the 2nd week of our season. Was thinking maybe it's a slow start and not in full swing yet?
I know the landowner has seen up to 30+ birds on the property and I have only seen the 5 on separate days.
I would think your breeding may not be in full swing yet up North? :dunno:
It was just getting going up here...turned into winter again this week...the last 2 mornings have been more like mid november...high 20's low 30's and white with snow...things have quieted down.
Must be the case - thanks for weighing in, fellas. I know there are birds out there.
We only get a 5 day window, so I have one day left to get it done and want to make the most of it.
My late-game plan is to set up where I've seen them exit a woodlot and just try to pop one when they walk past. :)
Im in MS. Worst gobbling activity I have ever experienced. I have seen two hens starting to nest. There is only 9 days left. It's awful here. Seen very little strutters. I have many fellow hunters that are experiencing the same thing.
Probly be full swing by mid May ha.
Been scouting everyday and have experienced good gobbling every morning with the birds I've been keeping track of.
This is where scouting and knowing your birds habits come into play. If you know where they're moving to, beat them there.
Iowa was really difficult, as well. My buddy had the same issues and found the birds holding tight in the timber and little to zero interest in dekes or calling. I think it's just getting going (Rt when my season is over!! Story of my life ;)
Well worst case is I try one more time and end up having spent three mornings watching the sun rise in beautiful MN countryside. Looks like I win either way.
Thanks again guys.
I would bet the season is generally right on schedule. There are phases to the season. 30 birds last week could be very different this week. In fact- that 30 may not even be there now. Birds shift around and establish harem flocks. You may have to move a half mile to find a tom. Then it may develop and shift within day or two. A young group of bach jakes is typical. Depending on the type of dekes, ignoring them is also quite typical.
Hang in there. A jake deke may very well draw those jakes into you. Try some fighting purrs mid AM and you might find that entire group of jakes coming in on you completely silent.
Dan in KS
Thanks for the advice, KSdan.
For the most part the birds have been pretty vocal here in Maryland and friends and I have scored on and missed a few birds. I ditched my hen decoys for this year and been using only a singe submissive Jake.