anyone have advice for a beginner turkey hunter?

[Del in KS]

I have a bag full of decoys. Struttin Jake, hens Gobbler etc tried them all. Sometimes they work sometimes they don't. Nowdays I don't use one unless it's a special situation. You don't want a bird to 1. hang up when he sees the hen and try to call her to him or 2 see the jake or gobbler and be intimidated. If he gets close and sees nothing he is more likely to keep looking until your shot hits his head. Try to set up so that he is in range when you see the bird. You can click on my username and check the Gobbler pics one of them has 5 beards. Can't get enough Turkey hunting.

[DanInArkinsaw]

I agree with alot of the pros on this page. If you will listen and pay attention to the birds you will quickly pick up on thier behaviours. The key to success is knowing your prey.

[jbird]

Get out there early and listen for gobbles from the roost. Try to sneak close. A push button yelper is the easiest call to use, boxes and frictions aren't much harder. Mouth calls take alot of practice, but are the most rewarding personally, and they require the least movement when the Tom's in sight. Google "turkey calling", and you can find some cool sites w/ all the turkey vocalizations so you can hear what your trying to sound like. A turkey hunting dvd wouldn't hurt either. Good luck!

[CavRecon]

Patience, stillness, and tick repellent.

[rudyglove27]

Agreed with Del in KS answer above and A + 1 for you sir!!!