I sometimes joke that I met a casual turkey hunter once, just once. Among all forms of hunting there are different levels of engagement. Some folks are casual, some more dedicated and others obsessed over their preferred prey. There may be overlap for some species but among turkey hunters the difference is more distinct, with turkey fan fanatics far outnumbering the nonchalant. Furthermore, there are ways for the discriminating eye to discern the difference between people who hunt turkeys and true turkey hunters. 

One is by the clothes they wear. Real turkey hunters don’t just grab whatever’s hanging on a nail in the mud room. They’re meticulous about choosing clothes based both on function and form. Cotton military surplus BDU’s (battle dress uniforms) in woodland camo were once standard issue, but advancements in apparel technology have changed both pattern and material. While wool may still distinguish a veteran of the deer woods, quick-drying, moisture-wicking synthetics rule the roost in the turkey woods. 

Hunting is a bit of a fashion show, headlined by competing camo patterns. Like Coke and Pepsi, Ford and Chevy, when it comes to camo there’s Mossy Oak and Realtree, and all the others. You’ll find serious turkey hunters most often wearing one of the two. A closer look will reveal their pants, shirt, jacket, gloves and hat are all of the same specialized spring pattern.

Another clue is footwear. Anything less than calf-high and waterproof suggests someone who probably hasn’t spent much time chasing gobblers in the predominantly soggy terrain of Maine. Knee-high rubber or neoprene boots are practical and strongly suggest a veteran. If you see someone with knee-high lace up boots you’re in the presence of one who has likely chased birds in numerous states and environments, over many seasons.

Next comes a vest. You might have to peek in their back seat or truck bed to find it because it’s the first thing that comes off when they’re out of the woods. It may be a luxury for the casual turkey hunter but serious ones see it as a necessity. The front is adorned with all manner of pockets specifically shaped and sized for all the various and sundry items they need to carry into the woods. The back has an integral game bag big enough to carry a turkey out.

Their choice of weapon offers still more insight into a turkey hunter’s status. A shiny blued barrel and polished wood stock give away the novice to human observers and turkeys alike. Matted barrel and receiver and dull hardwood stock suggest a more serious hunter, but camo covering all the metal and a synthetic stock are equipment of the elite. A scope or other additional optic might also declare dedication.  

Then there are subtleties. You might see a circular ring of wear on their back pocket from a snuff can, or a hastily sewn three-corner tear from crossing a barbed wire fence. A good pair of pants, like a good pair of boots, is hard to replace. A closer look at the camo pattern might reveal blood stains on the vest’s game pouch or their boots. 

If you wish to engage one of the elites, caution is advised. Questions like, “Did you catch anything?” will be quickly dismissed with a terse response or perhaps a chuckle. Better options might be “How are they gobbling?” or “What call are you running?” Of course, you’ll need to be prepared with an appropriate response to their answer. They’re far more interested in talking to turkeys than people. 

Bob Humphrey is a freelance writer and Registered Maine Guide who lives in Pownal. He can be reached at: [email protected]