A few years ago, on the opening morning of spring turkey hunting season, I forgot to bring a box of 20 gauge shotgun 
shells. I was standing by our truck arranging turkey calls in my vest when the error of my ways hit me.
I was hunting with my husband that day and couldn't use any of his shells because he uses a 12 gauge shotgun so no luck there. Plus, after I'm done hunting, I am diligent about putting my shells back in the manufacturer's box. This is my strategy to prevent accidentally putting 20 gauge shotgun shells in a 12 gauge shotgun. Problem is, it also meant there were no loose shells in my vest. Woe is me.
Well, that day was spent bird watching instead of turkey hunting. No regrets, however you can bet I promised myself (and my husband) to be more organized on our next hunting trip. So, I decided to create a checklist of turkey hunting gear because at different times I've been known to forget insect repellent, chalk for tuning a box call or an extra pair of gloves. My hunting gear checklist contains a mix of necessary and optional items that will help me be safer, more successful and more comfortable. I hope you find my check list helpful, click print the hunting check list and add your own items. Also, before you head afield, be sure to check the regulations of the state you will be hunting in because there may be restriction on decoys, ammunition or gadgets you want to use.
Fortunately, later in the season I had my equipment act together and took this nice bird pictured.
Turkey Hunting Gear Checklist (print this checklist)
- Shotgun (with sling) or bow
- Shotgun shells
- Bowhunting accessories (finger tab, release, arrows, broadheads, quiver)
- Turkey calls
- Locator calls
- Binocular
- Turkey decoys (where legal)
- Camo blind (where legal)
- Insect repellent
- Call accessories (chalk, sandpaper)
- Map and compass
- Flashlight
- Ratchet cutters
- Knife
- Water bottle
- First aid kit
- Seat or cushioned stool
- Rain suit
- Extra gloves and face mask
- Turkey vest
- Camp shirt, pants, jacket, socks
- Waterproof and snakeproof boots
If you plan on turkey hunting in the spring or fall, please take a hunter safety course. You can get started with your hunter education training by tacking the state-approved courses offered by many of the state natural resource or wildlife agencies. Be safe, more successful, and make a checklist before you head out.
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