Best Turkey Hunting Gear for Beginners: What You Need to Get Started

Turkey hunting is an exciting challenge that requires patience, skill, and—most importantly—the right gear. Whether you’re preparing for your first hunt or looking to refine your setup, having the right equipment can make all the difference. The right turkey hunting gear helps you stay comfortable, concealed, and ready for success in the field.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything a beginner needs to know about turkey hunting gear, from essential clothing to must-have equipment, safety tips, and expert recommendations to help you get started the right way.

Essential Clothing for Turkey Hunting

Dressing appropriately for turkey hunting isn’t just about comfort—it’s about staying hidden and adapting to changing weather conditions. Turkeys have exceptional eyesight, meaning the right camouflage and scent control are crucial for success.

Camouflage Clothing

One of the most important aspects of turkey hunting is staying concealed. Unlike deer, which rely heavily on their sense of smell, turkeys primarily detect movement and color variations. Camouflage patterns designed for wooded, field, or brushy environments help hunters blend into their surroundings.

What to Look for in Camo Clothing:

• Environment-Specific Patterns: Choose patterns that match the landscape you’ll be hunting in—spring greens, fall browns, or neutral brush colors.

• Breathable, Moisture-Wicking Fabrics: Lightweight clothing for warm weather and insulated gear for colder months.

• Quiet Material: Avoid clothing that rustles when you move.

Footwear for Turkey Hunting

Turkey hunting often requires long treks through various terrains—fields, swamps, woodlands, and steep hills. The right boots keep your feet dry, comfortable, and supported throughout your hunt.

Choosing the Right Boots:

• Waterproofing: Essential if you’ll be hunting in wet or muddy areas.

• Ankle Support: Look for boots with solid ankle support for uneven terrain.

• Breathability: Insulated boots for cold weather, mesh-lined boots for warm conditions.

Accessories for Comfort & Concealment

Beyond clothing and boots, face masks, gloves, and hats are essential for remaining undetected. Turkeys have 360-degree vision and can spot even minor movements.

Must-Have Accessories:

• Face Mask & Gloves: Helps cover exposed skin and reduce visibility.

• Wide-Brim Hat or Cap: Protects from the sun and helps conceal movement.

Must-Have Turkey Hunting Equipment

Turkey hunting isn’t just about wearing the right clothes—you’ll also need essential gear to attract, locate, and take down a gobbler.

Turkey Calls

Turkey calls help imitate natural turkey sounds, attracting birds within range. Beginners should start with easy-to-use calls before mastering more advanced techniques.

Types of Turkey Calls:

• Box Calls – Best for beginners, loud and easy to use.

• Slate Calls (Pot Calls) – Versatile and produce realistic tones.

• Mouth Calls (Diaphragm Calls) – Hands-free operation but require practice.

Decoys

Using decoys is a proven strategy to draw turkeys into shooting range. Decoys help create confidence in approaching gobblers, making them think another bird is nearby.

Types of Decoys:

• Hen Decoys – Used to attract male turkeys.

• Jake Decoys – Subdominant males that lure in aggressive toms.

• Full-Strut Tom Decoys – Used for dominant gobblers looking to fight.

Shotguns & Ammunition

A 12-gauge or 20-gauge shotgun is the most common choice for turkey hunting. Pairing the right choke with the right ammunition ensures a tight, lethal pattern.

Recommended Shotgun Options:

• Remington 870 Express 12-Gauge (reliable and affordable).

• Benelli Super Black Eagle 3 (premium semi-auto option).

Ammunition & Choke Recommendations:

• Winchester Long Beard XR (long-range turkey load).

• Carlson’s Long Beard XR Choke Tube (tight pattern for better accuracy).

Optics & Scouting Tools

Binoculars help locate turkeys before setting up, while rangefinders improve shot accuracy. Trail cameras can also provide scouting information before the season starts.

Gear for Staying Comfortable & Safe in the Field

Turkey Hunting Vests & Packs

A turkey hunting vest keeps all your essential gear organized and accessible. Some vests also include built-in seat cushions for comfort.

Seat Cushions & Ground Blinds

Sitting still for long periods is key to success in turkey hunting. A seat cushion or ground blind keeps you comfortable and concealed.

Safety Gear & Hunting Regulations

Safety should always be a priority. Many states require hunters to wear blaze orange when moving between hunting spots.

Safety Essentials:

• Blaze Orange Hat or Vest (for safety when walking).

• Hunter Education Certificate (required in many states).

Beginner Tips for Using Your Gear Effectively

• Practice using turkey calls before the hunt.

• Pattern your shotgun at different distances.

• Set up decoys strategically for maximum effectiveness.

• Scout areas ahead of time using trail cameras.

• Be patient—turkey hunting is a waiting game!

Conclusion

Turkey hunting is an exciting and rewarding sport, and having the right gear ensures a successful and enjoyable experience. By investing in quality camouflage, effective turkey calls, durable decoys, and a well-chosen shotgun setup, beginners can increase their chances of bagging a gobbler. Gear up for turkey season with SKRE Gear and get your gear today.