Imagine this: you’re out in the crisp morning air, the sun just starting to peek over the horizon. You hear a gobble in the distance, a sound that sends a thrill through any turkey hunter. But how do you get that gobbler to come closer? That’s where the magic of a locator call comes in. It’s your secret weapon to get a wild turkey to reveal its location, and it can make all the difference between a successful hunt and a quiet morning.
Choosing the right locator call can feel like a puzzle. There are so many different types, and it’s easy to get lost in all the options. Do you go with a mouth call, a box call, or something else? Each one has its own sound and way of working. The wrong call might not sound realistic, or it might be too difficult to use. This can lead to frustration and missed opportunities in the field.
But don’t worry! This guide is here to help you cut through the confusion. We’ll explore the different kinds of locator calls and what makes them work. You’ll learn how to pick the best one for your needs and how to use it effectively to get those turkeys talking. By the end of this post, you’ll feel confident in your choice and ready to put your new skills to the test on your next hunt.
Top Locator Calls For Turkey Recommendations
- Turkey call. Great early morning or evening turkey locator call for really zoning in on a gobbler. Realistic tone and volume and invokes shock gobbles every time
- Hoot owl call. Who gives a Hoot? Gobbling turkeys do, that's who. This Hootie turkey call features a great barred owl sound with true hoot tones to lure those gobblers to their final resting place
- Design. Created by those who have a passion for Turkey Hunting and who are eager to help you successfully fill your tag and your dinner serving plate.
- Must have. When it's time to head to the turkey woods make sure you have one of Strut Commander's Hootie Owl Call to help you bag your next gobbler.
- Easy to use. This turkey call can be used by rookies, weekend warriors and seasoned pros alike
- LOCATE GOBBLERS BEFORE YOU EVER MAKE A TURKEY SOUND – The Pure Owl Call triggers shock gobbles from roosted toms, helping you pinpoint bird locations at first light before committing to hen calls. Know where they are before you set up.
- REALISTIC OWL HOOTS THAT CARRY – Hand-tuned to replicate natural barred owl vocalizations with the volume and tone needed to cut through timber and open terrain. Birds respond because it sounds like the real thing.
- RUNS EASY – NO FIGHTING THE CALL – Requires minimal air and effort to produce consistent, repeatable hoots. Spend less time fussing with the call and more time listening for gobbles. Works right out of the box.
- REAL MAPLE WOOD – BUILT TO LAST IN THE FIELD – Crafted from genuine maple wood for natural tone, a comfortable grip, and durability across seasons. Not cheap plastic that cracks or sounds hollow.
- BUILT FOR HOW HUNTERS ACTUALLY HUNT – Compact enough to slip in your vest pocket and pull out fast when you're on the move. Whether you're running and gunning or checking new locations, it's always within reach.
- 100 percent designed and tested for the toughest situations and environments
- oudest locator available
- Can be used as a turkey locator call or a crow hunting call
- The 8-note call of the barred owl has a rasp that is heard only when you are extremely close. This is the sound that we have found turkeys will respond to the best
- We have designed the Power Owl to accurately reproduce this sound with strong volume, to locate even the wariest of gobblers
- Improved design allows for super-loud locating, and keeps reeds from sticking due to over blowing. Plus The use of back pressure lets you vary tones and pitches
- Whether you are a professional, recreational user, or even casual, primos will fit the mold for all types of people
- Design allows for super-loud locating
- EFFECTIVE HUNTING CALL - Hunters Specialties Strut Loco Crow call features an ergonomic wood barrel and is an excellent gobbler locator call, producing loud and authentic crow calls on demand. It has everything the hunter needs to locate and call a turkey
- ERGONOMIC CONSTRUCTION - This call features ergonomic design that fits comfortably in your hand. The call is constructed of engineered wood, which is pressure treated, turned, and then sealed for weather protection. No two calls look exactly the same
- REALISTIC SOUNDS - The Loco Crow hunting game call from Hunters Specialties produces loud, realistic crow sounds that will induce a shock gobble from even the wariest toms. This call is also very easy to blow
- EASY TO MASTER - Whether you're a beginner or a pro hunter, this Hunter's Specialties Loco Crow call makes deep-rich realistic sounds with excellent volume. Even a beginner hunter can utilize these expert calls
- TURKEY HUNTER MUST-HAVE - When it's time to head to the turkey woods make sure you have one of Hunter's Specialties calls in your vest to help you bag your next prey; This HS game call is also an ideal gift for all the turkey hunters in your life!
- HUNTERS SPECIALTIES HS STRT MEGA HOOT OWL CALL - The H.S. Strut Mega Hoot Owl Call is a gobbler locator mouth call that is designed to meet and exceed needs of modern hunters no matter the conditions
- RASPIER SOUNDS - The Mega Hoot Owl call from Hunters Specialties creates raspier sounds thanks to its construction with three holes on the end that make this funnel sound which is great for long-range calling
- REQUIRES LESS AIR PRESSURE - The Hunters Specialties turkey mouth call requires less air pressure and is used to lure the turkey and to know the exact position of your prey and to be a comfortable addition to your turkey huting strategy
- ERGONOMIC BARREL - Now with an ergonomic root beer colored barrel that fits comfortably in your hand, your set-up on an aggressive Gobbler could be moments away and ensure it delivers the best performance possible
- STRUT SELECT PREMIUM TURKEY CALLS - Strut select is exactly as it sounds -A select lineup of turkey calls and accessories made of the highest quality materials & manufactured with strict attention to detail-Strut select
- An excellent locator call for turkeys
- Works especially in heavily hunted areas where the Owl Hooter doesn’t work
- It is an extremely loud call
- Made in the USA
- LOCATE THOSE TOMS: The RR-98, is the ultimate turkey locator call. Roosters crowing in the early morning will often cause a turkey to gobble
- EXTREMELY LOUD: While being extremely loud, the RR-98 is a very natural sound, being especially useful in locating distant toms
- VERSITILE DESIGN: As well as making the sounds of a rooster, the RR-98 doubles as a pileated woodpecker call, a coyote howl and a peacock call
- CALL THEM IN: Not only can you locate a Tom but you can also call him in - the clucks and yelps of a hen can also be imitated making this is a must have call for any serious turkey hunter
- MADE IN THE USA: Just like all Haydel's Calls this call is made in Bossier City Louisiana
Finding Your Feathered Friends: A Guide to Locator Calls for Turkey
Turkey hunting is an exciting sport, and a good locator call can make all the difference. These calls help you find gobblers by mimicking the sounds of other turkeys. We’ll guide you through what to look for, what materials matter, and how to get the best user experience.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re choosing a locator call, a few things really stand out.
- Sound Quality: This is the most important feature. A good call should sound realistic. It needs to mimic the yelp, cluck, or caw of a real turkey. Listen to real turkey sounds online to get an idea of what you’re aiming for.
- Ease of Use: You don’t want to struggle with your call in the woods. It should be simple to operate, even when you’re excited or wearing gloves. Some calls are easier to blow than others.
- Durability: Turkey hunting can be tough on gear. Your call needs to withstand weather, being dropped, and being carried in your hunting vest.
- Versatility: Some calls can make a few different sounds. This can be helpful if you’re trying to attract different kinds of turkeys or react to what you hear.
Important Materials
The stuff your call is made from affects how it sounds and how long it lasts.
- Wood: Many excellent locator calls use wood. Different types of wood, like cedar or walnut, give off different tones. Wood calls often have a natural, rich sound.
- Acrylic: Acrylic calls are also popular. They are very durable and can produce loud, clear sounds. They are also easy to clean.
- Plastic: Plastic is a common material for more affordable calls. While some plastic calls sound great, others can sound a bit artificial. They are usually very tough.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make a locator call better or worse.
- Craftsmanship: How well the call is made is crucial. A well-crafted call will have smooth edges and precise parts. This leads to better sound and easier use. Poor craftsmanship can mean a call that doesn’t sound right or breaks easily.
- Tuning and Design: The way a call is designed and “tuned” by the maker greatly impacts its sound. A good design allows for a range of tones and volumes. A poorly designed call might only make one or two limited sounds.
- User Skill: Your own ability to use the call is a big factor. Practicing regularly helps you make realistic sounds. Even the best call won’t work well if you can’t use it properly.
User Experience and Use Cases
Using a locator call is all about connecting with turkeys.
- Finding Turkeys in the Morning: The best time to use a locator call is early in the morning, just before or at sunrise. You’re trying to get a gobbler to answer you. If he gobbles back, you know where he is!
- Locating Turkeys During the Day: You can also use locator calls during the day. Sometimes, a turkey might be quiet. A locator call can encourage him to make some noise.
- Calling in Shy Turkeys: If a turkey seems hesitant or won’t come in closer, a locator call can sometimes spark his interest and make him move your way.
- Practice is Key: Spend time practicing at home. Get comfortable with the sounds you can make. This builds your confidence and makes you a more effective hunter.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is a locator call for turkeys?
A: A locator call is a hunting tool that makes turkey sounds to help you find wild turkeys by making them gobble back.
Q: What are the most important features of a locator call?
A: The most important features are sound quality, ease of use, durability, and versatility.
Q: What materials are commonly used for turkey locator calls?
A: Common materials include wood, acrylic, and plastic.
Q: Does the material of the call affect its sound?
A: Yes, different materials like wood and acrylic produce different tones and volumes.
Q: What makes a locator call high quality?
A: High quality comes from good craftsmanship, smart design, and the ability to produce realistic sounds.
Q: What can reduce the quality of a locator call?
A: Poor craftsmanship, bad design, and difficulty in making realistic sounds can reduce quality.
Q: When is the best time to use a locator call?
A: The best time is usually early in the morning, just before or at sunrise.
Q: Can I use a locator call at other times of the day?
A: Yes, you can use them during the day to find quiet turkeys or to interest shy ones.
Q: How can I improve my user experience with a locator call?
A: Practice your calls regularly at home to get comfortable and make realistic sounds.
Q: Are locator calls easy for beginners to use?
A: Many locator calls are designed to be easy to use, but practice will always help beginners get better.