Well, I've got no clue on where to start with these Merriams. I've got into shape hiking mountains in Arizona and am originally from South Carolina. I'm looking to chase turkeys in New Mexico, since it's over the table. I'm either going to Lincoln or Gila. If anyone has some worthy tips, I can exchange them with Francis Marion national forest tips. I've read that open mind is best out here and you will need to cover miles on foot and by car. That they're normally found around water and the large pines. I'm going no matter what, but thought I'd throw the offer out there to exchange knowledge to get one step ahead. Knowledge for Knowledge.
Key on water(dirt tanks in the Gila).
Spend the last 20 minutes of daylight and the first 20 minutes of dark trying to roost a bird to go back and hunt the next morning.
Be prepared for cold and wind. I've hunted in the 20s with 15-20mph winds out there regularly.
Be prepared for warm weather.
Those birds cover ground real fast.
They aren't as dumb or easy as "Merriam's" hunts on TV.
A SxS or an ATV will help you cover ground a LOT faster than a pickup.
Amazing place to turkey hunt.
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Yes..They're definitely not the dumb merriams you see in the videos...
Try as hard as possible to figure out their travel route...once they hit the ground its seems like they run to the next county..very little talking too. and impossible to make them go where they dont want to go..
We found them to be a little talkative in the mornings but take note of roost sites and silently slip in a couple hours before dark and wait em out...deer hunting style...no decoys...no calling..
You might get lucky and hear a single gobble or two on their way back to the roost but dont expect much..
Its tough but exciting...
Amazing country and scenery
Enjoy!