Iowa Youth Bird

chadly · April 12, 2020, 12:48:24 PM

No scouting this year at all. Too much work. Anyway got up extra early and went to a spot that can be good during youth as it gets hit hard once regular season starts. Never heard a bird. We moved to another spot and there were literally hens in the parking lot and a tom 100 yards off strutting. We also saw birds about a half mile a way which flew at the site of our truck. We came back late afternoon. After a half mile walk in we called and got an answer a long ways out. We moved closed, called and got another answer. we continue this process about five times. The last 25 yards we belly crawled to a tree and set up. I made a call and nothing. Tried a few more times and nothing. Sat about 20 minutes and nothing. I figured we got too close and spooked him. a few minutes later I see a red head 50 yards out and looking our way. I had a water proof push button call I brought as it was calling for rain was thundering when we left the truck. I gently made a purr and he started our way with two toms right behind. He got to 25 yards at a creek bank and stuck his head up for good look and I told Joshua to shoot. I seen his head blow backwards. The other two birds flogged and humped him. Stood on top of him in strut. He started flopping and unfortunately lopped into a muddy creek which made for ugly pictures. 20.6 lbs which felt at least double that as we took turns carrying him out. Bird had a huge head. It was a fun hunt and great time with my son. He was so happy as was I.