What call would you suggest?

[borch]

Sometimes the call can make the difference. But I've found that if the tom is hung up or if you have hens coming in to steal him away you're usually calling too much. When there are a lot of hens around get his attention and then shut up. Do a bit of leaf scratching and a few clucks or purrs if you do call. You see his gobbling attracts hens. The more you make him gobble the more likely that you'll have hen trouble. Also if you are having hen trouble, come back to where you called him later in the day. Afternoon if it's leagal in your state. By this time many of the hens have gone to nest and you'll have a better chance at the big guy.

Another option is to roost him the evening before. If he is roosting with a bunch of hens. Wait until dark and bust them off the roost. Come back the next morning and he'll likely be alone and more receptive.

Mouth calls are the most difficult calls to learn. So if you haven't picked it up already you'd be better served with a fiction call. A slate can be set on the ground and worked will little movement. It won't be real loud but works well this way as a close in call. But remember, silence works best those last 50-70 yards. when he doesn't have a boss hen by his side.

If he does just imitate her calling and see if you can't draw her in. If you do he'll be trailing along.

Best of Luck!

[Strut10]

Re: What call would you suggest?

I'd call like a nut.............to the hens. Usually the only way I can kill a "henned-up" tom is to irritate the hens to the point of having them come looking for me to run me off. Hens can be quite territorial and possesive. If you can get them upset enough (cutt aggressively at them......mimic their cutts and interrupt them when they call) they will come after you. The gobbler will follow. This is not a "high-percentage" situation. More often than not, the hen will go the other way with the gobbler in tow. If she does come to you, chances are, she'll be in your lap before the tom gets close enough for a shot.......so good camo and NO MOVEMENT are a MUST. If the hen doesn't "fire up" within a couple minutes of calling, don't persist. Either try to figure out which way they're going and try to head them off or just go find another gobbler to try. Tomorrow's another day!!