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5 Essential Ways to Avoid Getting Busted by Turkeys This Season

Posted by Jeff Ellis

Understanding Turkey Vision: Why They Spot You First

Wild turkeys possess some of the most remarkable vision in the woods. According to research from the National Wild Turkey Federation, these birds have eyesight approximately 5 times better than humans, with color vision and an impressive 270-degree field of view. This visual advantage means that even the slightest movement can send them running before you've had a chance to react.

Dr. Michael Chamberlain, wild turkey researcher at the University of Georgia, explains, "A turkey's visual acuity is their primary defense mechanism, which is why they've evolved such exceptional eyesight over thousands of years."

After gathering insights from experienced hunters at the 2025 National Wild Turkey Federation Expo in Nashville, we've compiled the five most critical strategies to avoid getting spotted this turkey season.

1. Minimize Movement at All Costs

Movement is the number one reason turkey hunts fail. These sharp-eyed birds can detect even the smallest motion from over 100 yards away.

Expert Tip: Keep your hands close to your body and practice moving with extreme slowness—think of moving like you're in slow motion.

According to turkey hunting expert Eddie Salter, "If you can see a turkey, it can most definitely see you. The difference is whether your movement catches its attention."

2. Gear Up for Zero Fumbling

Every piece of equipment should be immediately accessible without looking or making excessive movements. This preparation is where purpose-built gear makes all the difference.

The Ready Ranger magnetic retention system allows hunters to range distances quickly and then secure their rangefinder silently with a magnetic system that eliminates fumbling at critical moments.

If you're hunting outside of a ground blind, always range key landmarks and potential shooting lanes before you start calling. Once that tom appears, any movement to grab your rangefinder will be instantly detected by their exceptional vision, likely sending them running before you can get a shot off.

Ready Ranger - JAKT GEAR

Pro Setup: Arrange your calls, rangefinder, and weapon in a deliberate pattern that requires minimal movement to access. Practice this setup at home before heading to the field.

3. Dress for Complete Concealment

Breaking up your silhouette completely is non-negotiable for turkey hunting success. Research confirms that turkeys can distinguish between different colors and patterns.

Proper turkey hunting attire includes:

Full camouflage pattern matched to your hunting environment
Face mask to break up the human face outline
Gloves to conceal hand movements
Hat with a brim to shadow your face

Critical Note: Avoid any shiny surfaces on your gear or face (watches, glasses, etc.) as these can catch sunlight and create flashes visible to turkeys.

4. Perfect Your Setup Position

Your hunting position can make or break your chances of success. To break up your outline and provide back protection, position yourself against a tree wider than your shoulders. A ground blind is an excellent way of concealing movement when hunting with youth.

Establish clear shooting lanes before you begin calling, and have everything prepared before making your first call. According to themeateater.com , the ideal setup includes:

A wide tree for back support and outline-breaking
180-degree visibility of potential approach routes
Natural barriers that guide turkeys toward your shooting lanes
Minimal vegetation between you and where you expect the turkey to appear

5. Master the Patience Game

Perhaps the most challenging aspect of turkey hunting is developing the mental fortitude to remain motionless for extended periods. Chris Kirby, president of Quaker Boy Calls, wrote for Mossy Oak, "If you want to see all the blood go out of a turkey hunter’s face, watch what happens when he's going to a gobbler, but the gobbler sees him and the turkey runs off before the hunter can get a shot".

The most successful turkey hunters aren't necessarily the ones with the most realistic calls—they're the ones who can remain perfectly still the longest. As legendary turkey hunter Ray Eye notes, "Patience isn't just a virtue in turkey hunting; it's a requirement."

Conclusion: Putting It All Together

Combining these five strategies creates a comprehensive approach to avoiding detection during your turkey hunts. Remember that turkeys have explicitly evolved to detect threats through visual observation, making your ability to minimize movement and maximize concealment the most critical factor for success.

This turkey season, focus on these fundamentals, prepare your gear for silent accessibility, and commit to the patience needed for consistent success. For equipment that supports these strategies, check out the Ready Ranger system that helps solve the #1 problem in turkey hunting: unnecessary movement.

Additional Resources:

Your Total Archery Challenge Adventure Awaits with Jakt Gear

Posted by Kirsten Petersen

Gear up for the ultimate archery experience at the Total Archery Challenge and Jakt Gear!

With over 100 3D archery targets and multiple courses designed for different skill levels, this event promises excitement and challenges for everyone. Here's what you can expect at this thrilling event:

The Dawn of Jakt Gear: Revolutionizing the Hunting Experience

Posted by Kirsten Petersen

"The Dawn of Jakt Gear: Revolutionizing the Hunting Experience"

In the heart of every hunter lies a passion for innovation and efficiency. JAKT GEAR, a pioneer in the hunting gear industry, embodies this spirit. Founded by hunters, for hunters, JAKT GEAR has revolutionized the way outdoor enthusiasts gear up for all types of hunting terrains. Their flagship products include the My Sling-A-Ling magnetic bow sling, the UTG Ready Ranger magnetic rangefinder, the versatile Tree Toolbelt from the Ultimate Tree Gear Collection, and the Pack Rats - Backpack Strap Clips for hands-free gear movement. Additionally, the Quiver Caddy™, was also named Best New Accessory at the 2024 Archery Trade Association Show, offers an innovative solution for quiver management during hunts. Each product is designed with the hunter's needs in mind, combining durability, practicality, and functionality to ensure that every hunting expedition is more successful and less burdensome. With JAKT GEAR, hunters are not just equipped; they are empowered.

Founding Story of Jakt Gear

Behind every great innovation is a story of challenge, passion, and resolution. For Jakt Gear, that story begins with Jeff Ellis, a passionate hunter and outdoor enthusiast whose personal experiences in the wild sparked the adventure of this pioneering company. Frustrated by the inadequacies of traditional hunting gear, especially when it came to carrying his bow over long distances, Jeff envisioned a solution that would not only alleviate his own struggles but also transform the hunting experience for others. This vision led to the creation of the My Sling-A-Ling bow sling, the first step towards Jakt Gear's mission to revolutionize hunting gear.

Overcoming Initial Challenges

The path from a visionary idea to a tangible product is seldom smooth, and Jakt Gear's journey was no exception. Developing a prototype that was both functional and practical for hunters presented the first major hurdle. The intricate balance between durability, practicality, and user comfort required countless hours of design, testing, and refinement. Jeff and his team were committed to perfection, unwilling to settle for anything less than the best.

The search for the right materials and manufacturing processes was equally daunting. Jakt Gear needed partners who could not only understand their vision but also deliver products that met their rigorous standards of quality. Through perseverance and a commitment to their mission, Jakt Gear established relationships with suppliers and manufacturers who were up to the task. This network of partnerships became the backbone of their production process, enabling them to produce gear that hunters could rely on in the most demanding conditions.

Milestones and Recognition

Despite the challenges, Jakt Gear's dedication to innovation and quality quickly bore fruit. The launch of the My Sling-A-Ling bow sling was met with enthusiasm from the hunting community, validating Jeff's belief that there was a better way to carry hunting gear. The positive feedback from hunters who experienced firsthand the difference Jakt Gear's products made in their expeditions was a significant milestone, marking the company's successful entry into the market.

Another crowning achievement came when the a few producst from the Ultimate Tree Gear Collection was named Best New Accessory at the 2024 Archery Trade Association Show. This recognition was more than an award; it was a testament to Jakt Gear's impact on the hunting industry and a signal of the company's potential to lead and innovate. Alongside these milestones, Jakt Gear continued to expand its product line, each new offering reinforcing its reputation for quality and ingenuity.

Vision, Mission, and Community Impact

At the heart of Jakt Gear's success is a vision that extends beyond the creation of hunting gear. Jeff envisioned a company that not only solved practical problems for hunters but also built a community around shared values of innovation, quality, and respect for nature. Jakt Gear's mission to employ and celebrate veterans, utilizing their unique talents and experiences, underscores their commitment to community and service.

The company's efforts to give back, whether through community engagement or contributions to conservation and outdoor recreation causes, demonstrate a deep understanding of their impact beyond the products they sell. Jakt Gear is not just about enhancing the hunting experience; it's about fostering a culture that values dedication, hard work, and a deep appreciation for the natural world.

Jakt Gear's journey from an idea sparked in the backcountry to a pioneering force in the hunting gear industry is a story of innovation, perseverance, and community. Jeff's vision to provide simple solutions to complex problems has not only transformed how hunters approach their gear but has also built a brand that stands for quality, reliability, and respect for nature and people.

As Jakt Gear continues to innovate and expand its product line, its impact on the hunting industry and the communities it serves is undeniable. For hunters looking for gear that matches their passion for the outdoors, Jakt Gear offers not just products but a promise of enhancement, efficiency, and excellence.

Jakt Gear's story is a testament to what can be achieved when vision, dedication, and community come together. It's a reminder that sometimes, the simplest solutions can lead to the most profound changes, both in the wilderness and beyond.

Stay connected with the latest from JAKT GEAR! Follow us on our social media platforms for exclusive updates, events and shows, behind-the-scenes content, and more hunting tips and tricks. Join our community of passionate hunters and outdoor enthusiasts today, and use the hashtag #JAKTGear to share your experiences with us!

Don't miss out on the adventure – follow JAKT GEAR now!

What is Jakt Gear?

Posted by Kirsten Petersen

jakt
noun
/jɑkt/
- a hunt
- pursuit

JAKT GEAR is a company dedicated to providing innovative and high-quality hunting gear and accessories for outdoor enthusiasts. Founded by hunters with a passion for the backcountry, JAKT GEAR is driven by the desire to create practical, durable, and functional products that enhance the hunting experience. Their product line is designed to address common challenges faced by hunters and to improve efficiency and convenience during hunts.

Key products offered by JAKT GEAR include:

1. My Sling-A-Ling Magnetic Bow Sling: A revolutionary bow sling that allows for quick access to your bow while ensuring it's securely attached. It features a magnetic system to lock the sling out of the way during shots.

2. Ready Ranger Magnetic Rangefinder and Phone Retention System: A retention system designed to keep essential gear like rangefinders and phones secure and easily accessible during hunts.

3. Tree Toolbelt: Part of the Ultimate Tree Gear Collection, this belt attaches to a tree to keep hunting gear organized and within reach. It's made from military-grade webbing and is designed for versatility and durability.

4. Pack Rats - Backpack Strap Clips: These clips attach to the nylon webbing in a backpack strap, allowing for hands-free movement while carrying gear.

5. Quiver Caddy™: An accessory that holds your quiver during the hunt, working with all removable quivers. It can be combined with the UTG Tree Toolbelt for the ultimate gear organization system.

JAKT GEAR's products are designed by hunters, for hunters, ensuring they meet the highest standards for performance and reliability. The company is committed to providing simple solutions to complex problems and creating a culture that celebrates veterans and gives back to the community.

Don't miss out on the adventure – follow JAKT GEAR now!

To Hell and Back

Posted by Jack Ellis

This was the summer of our epic father/son journey out West. My dad and I set out on a six-week adventure full of camping, hiking, mountain biking, rafting and fly fishing.

We mountain biked the Deadman’s Ridge trail of Moab, Utah, the biking capital of the world. We hiked the Devil’s Stairs trail in Grand Teton National Park. We fly-fished and swam in the Snake River, but none of that prepared me for the hike down into Hell’s Canyon National Recreation Area.

I’ve never been to a place more appropriately named than Hell’s Canyon. The canyon spans 10 miles along the border of Idaho, Oregon, and Washington and is deeper than the Grand Canyon. I’ve grown up listening to my dad’s stories of this rugged place. A place where bear and elk are more common than roads and stores. A place where grown men have slept on the side of the mountain because they couldn’t take one more step. A place that could be as deadly as it was beautiful. Now it was my turn to make the voyage.

We camped for a couple of nights up along the ridge, just enjoying the area and getting ready for the descent. The morning arrived. It’s a good thing we started early, what we didn’t know was it would take us every bit of daylight to make it to the bottom of Hell.

The canyon is only a little over a mile deep, how long could it really take to hike? It is downhill after all. My dad just smiled his knowing smile and we headed out.

After two bear sightings, one extremely loud Rattle Snake, herds of Elk and 27 miles later, we finally arrived at the base of the canyon. Exhausted. Hell’s Canyon is so rugged and steep, you have to zig-zag your way down it, ever so slightly so as not to tumble down. It was like drudging through Dante’s Inferno one layer at a time.

As Dad and I relaxed by our campfire, pleased with what we had accomplished, a little flash in the darkness caught my attention. As we strained to focus our eyes, we finally made out the silhouette of a sweet little fawn. She had snuggled up under my hammock and seemed intent on staying. She was only 4-5 feet away; so trusting. It was then that the thought struck me. Even in the depths of Hell’s Canyon, one can find innocence and faith, you just have to look beyond the darkness and toward the light.