The Only 3 Turkey Calls A Turkey Hunter Needs

Published on March 17, 2026
Duration: 10:04

This guide, drawing on the wisdom of Tom Kelly and demonstrated by a Mossberg instructor, focuses on the three essential turkey calls: the Yelp, Cluck, and Cut. It emphasizes that effective turkey hunting relies heavily on woodsmanship and understanding turkey behavior, rather than perfect call execution. Mastering silence and knowing when to stop calling are highlighted as critical skills for success.

Quick Summary

The three essential turkey calls are the Yelp, Cluck, and Cut, with silence being a critical fourth skill. Woodsmanship is paramount, often more so than perfect calling. Muted yelps and simple clucks are effective, and knowing when to stop calling once a bird is engaged is crucial for success.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Tom Kelly's Turkey Wisdom
  2. 00:31Calling Disclaimer & Woodsmanship Importance
  3. 01:29Essential Turkey Calls for Hunters
  4. 01:52The Yelp: Mouth Calls & Technique
  5. 02:37Yelp Demonstration & Muted Yelps
  6. 03:25Yelp with Pot Call & Common Mistakes
  7. 04:32The Cluck: Bubble Cluck & Research
  8. 05:08Cluck Variation & Simple Clucks
  9. 05:43Cluck vs. Putt & Adding Context
  10. 06:31Simple Cluck with Mouth Call
  11. 06:59The Cut: Midday Call & Listening
  12. 07:31Cut Demonstration & Sealing the Deal
  13. 08:05The Fourth Essential Call: Silence
  14. 08:29Turkey's Perception & When to Stop Calling

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the three essential turkey calls for hunters?

The three essential turkey calls are the Yelp, the Cluck, and the Cut. The Yelp is fundamental, the Cluck is versatile for close-range communication, and the Cut is effective for midday hunting. Mastering silence is also considered a crucial fourth skill.

How important is woodsmanship in turkey hunting compared to calling?

Woodsmanship is considered more important than calling prowess. Understanding the terrain, wind, and turkey behavior allows hunters to position themselves effectively, which is often more critical than making perfect calls.

What is the difference between a plain yelp and assembly yelps?

A plain yelp typically consists of 3-7 calls and imitates a single hen. Assembly yelps, on the other hand, are a series of 10-15 calls used to attract other birds to a hen's location, not to mimic a single hen.

When should a turkey hunter stop calling?

A hunter should stop calling once a turkey is actively working towards their position. Continuing to call can spook the bird. Patience and silence are key to letting the turkey approach within range.

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