The Turkey Hunting Lessons We Learned... the Hard Way

Every turkey hunter has a story they’ll never forget—and usually a lesson that came with it.In this special Ascend roundtable episode, Adrian, Julia, Bethany, and Erin swap some of their most memorable turkey hunting experiences, from birds that mysteriously came back to life after the shot to all-day crawls across open country and mountain hunts for Merriam’s turkeys.Along the way, they discuss what keeps them coming back to turkey hunting season after season, the calls they trust, the gear they won’t leave home without, and the little tricks that make long mornings in the woods more enjoyable.Whether you're a seasoned turkey hunter or preparing for your first season, this conversation is packed with relatable stories, practical advice, and plenty of laughs.Topics covered:• Memorable turkey hunts and the lessons they taught• Why turkey hunting becomes addictive• Hunting Easterns, Rios, Merriam’s, and Osceolas• Mouth calls vs. slate calls vs. diaphragm calls• How movement ruins more setups than bad calling• Favorite turkey guns, gauges, and loads• Essential gear every turkey hunter carries• Tick prevention and staying comfortable in the field• Hunting snacks, coffee, Pop-Tarts, jerky, and other camp essentials• Why every experienced turkey hunter has at least one story that still hurts to tellFollow along with the Ascend community at @duascend or visit ducks.org/ascend. The Ascend Podcast by Ducks Unlimited is Sponsored by:Dry Pocket.Visit drypocket.com and use promo code "ASCEND" for 25% off.Bird Dig Whiskey.Visit birddogwhiskey.com. Enjoy Responsibly! Oklahoma Joes.Visit oklahomajoes.com and use promo code "DUCKS10" for 10% off.