XD,
1, I don't know the law in Florida but some states require a new hunter (born after 1960 in Michigan) to get a Hunter Safety Certificate by taking a hunter safety class. Call your local DNR/F&G dept.
2, For ammo I use #5 shot 3" magnum "turkey loads" but that is what paterns well in my gun. Try different ammo, usually #4's or #5's for turkey. Again check with the Regulations to find out if there is a min/max shot size.
3, Rounds. In most cases one shot, well placed, will do. Personally I load one in the chamber and three in the tube. 3" shells can pack a punch. The added weight of three extra rounds slightly reduces recoil. Its the only real reason I do so.
4, Camo! Head to toe! Turkeys have amazing eye sight. Like all birds, they see more colors than the human eye can see, and can detect the slightest movement.
Remember, a turkey is not at the top of the food chain. Just about everything in the woods would like to eat it. You don't last very long by not being wary and alert at all times.
No sudden movements and keep the noise to a minimum.
5, Be patient. take a pack with water, a couple powerbars, anything else you might need to be cofortable.
6, Pick up a slate call and practice for the next two months. There are websites where you can download different turkey sounds and learn what they mean/how birds will react to them. Once you have learned some basics with a simple call, get out in the woods and call in those toms. You'll probably call too much your first time out but learning is part of the fun.
Check the NWTF.org website and see if there are any turkey hunting seminars in your area. Some of the call manufacturers put on free seminars at the big sporting goods stores just before the season.
7, scout the property. Use a locator call (owl, crow) to see if any birds call back. Usually not a good idea to use turkey calls when scouting. From what I understand, birds will remember the distinct sound of your call and pretty much ignore it because it did not yeild a mate the first few times it was heard.
8, I see you are in Florida. Here in Michigan the mosquitos will carry you away durring spring. Use bug spray. Yes a turkey will see you swatting at bugs and itchin' and scratchin' and hear you cursing and yelling.
9, Remember, the four rules apply everywhere.
10, This one is most important (#9 excluded) read carefully and make sure you understand every word of it. If this rule is ignored then your trip afield was wasted.
Ready?
Are you paying attention?
HAVE FUN!
whether you get a bird on your first trip or not, its a chalenge and its supposed to be fun.
