Arizona - Turkey Hunting in 12A

[WardenWolf]

Well, can anyone tell me anything about this unit? I know it's in Kaibab, north of the Grand Canyon. I got the tag because some people are going turkey hunting up there and asked if I wanted to be in on it. All I know is that it's supposed to be very cold. I've never hunted turkey before, either.

I know turkeys see well, and I have a box call. Only thing that really concerns me is that I'm unable to sit still for long periods of time (not ADHD, but something else). I'm planning to get a blind to help with this. I'll be using a Saiga 12 shotgun with a poly choke. This is a good choice because it already has rifle sights and is black. I've also got some heavy-duty Russian winter camo. Is there anything else I should know or prepare for?

 

[1goodshot]

I hunted that unit 2 yrs ago, did not see or hear any wildlife at all except 1 coyote. Ive been up there on deer hunts and have seen them running around almost everytime. Its going to depend on how much snow there is an where you hunt.

 

[WardenWolf]

Thanks for the info. I'll be hunting with some people who've been there before, so that should help.

I DO worry about the possibility of bears. An area that remote seems like the ideal bear habitat. I'll be taking my Mosin Nagant with 203-grain soft points to keep in the camp. I probably won't need it, but I've got the knockout punch if I do. I'd rather have it and not need it than need it and not have it.

 

[1goodshot]

Never heard of any bears up there but they do have lots of mt lions. Ive seen the turkeys at all elevation so you might want to drive around if the area you hunt is not producing. I had a deer tag last fall an had turkey walk right up to me while I was sitting scouting for deer, this was down in the lower elevation.

 

[WardenWolf]

I'm planning to carry a sidearm while hunting to be safe. I'll be wearing my Tokarev loaded with hollowpoints. It's a better choice than my 1911 for a few reasons, including weight, accuracy, and penetration. I WISH they didn't require you load non-FMJ when carrying a sidearm in the woods.