Stop Missing Turkeys: 3 Shooting Mistakes Every Hunter Makes

Published on April 24, 2026
Duration: 11:15

This guide focuses on crucial shotgun shooting techniques for turkey hunting, emphasizing the importance of staying on the gun after the shot to avoid missing. It details how to maintain proper head position, overcome anticipation of recoil, and leverage optics for improved accuracy. The advice comes from experienced hunters and marksmen, highlighting common mistakes and solutions for consistent success in the field.

Quick Summary

The primary reason for missing turkeys is 'coming out of the gun,' meaning lifting your head or looking away after firing. To improve, maintain your head position on the stock, resist anticipating recoil, and consider using an optic if iron sights are difficult to see. Patience and staying on target are key for successful turkey hunting.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Why You Miss Turkeys
  2. 00:22Don't Trust Liars About Missing Turkeys
  3. 00:45Personal Hunting Property Anecdote
  4. 01:11Hunting Scenario: Decoy and Breeding Hen
  5. 01:51The Shot and Immediate Aftermath
  6. 02:32Hunter's Reaction to the Shot
  7. 02:47Second Shot and Turkey Recovery
  8. 02:51Another Hunting Scenario: Multiple Birds
  9. 03:16Calling and Bird Movement
  10. 03:40Waiting for the Perfect Shot
  11. 04:07Shotgun Reload and Follow-up
  12. 04:24The Critical Shot on the Front Bird
  13. 04:48Mistake: Running After a Turkey
  14. 05:09Patience and Reloading
  15. 05:22Reason 1: Coming Out of the Gun
  16. 05:44The Importance of Staying on the Gun
  17. 05:50Anticipation of Explosion
  18. 05:72Reason 2: Not Getting Head Down on Gun
  19. 05:80Using Optics for Better Aim
  20. 06:00Reason 3: Vision Issues with Beads
  21. 06:18Optic-Ready Shotguns
  22. 06:39Conclusion: Patience and Success

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most common reason hunters miss turkeys?

The most common reason hunters miss turkeys is 'coming out of the gun.' This means lifting your head or looking away from the target immediately after firing, often due to anticipation of recoil or excitement, which disrupts your aim and follow-through.

How can I improve my shotgun aiming for turkey hunting?

To improve your shotgun aiming, focus on keeping your head down on the gun stock after the shot. Resist the urge to look away. If you have trouble seeing iron sights, consider using an optic like a red dot sight, which can provide a clearer aiming point.

What is 'anticipation of explosion' in shooting?

'Anticipation of explosion' is a subconscious reaction where a shooter flinches or moves just before the gun fires, expecting the noise and recoil. This can cause you to pull off target. Consciously staying on the gun and focusing through the shot helps mitigate this.

Why is it important to stay on the gun after shooting a turkey?

Staying on the gun after the initial shot is crucial because the turkey might not be immediately incapacitated. It allows you to quickly acquire a sight picture for a follow-up shot if the bird is still mobile, or to confirm the hit and prevent it from escaping.

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