Best advice I can give is setups. Most of my hunting is in hardwoods, big ridges.
Be on the same level or above the bird before you call. I'm not saying they won't go down hill, just putting odds in your favor. It's easier to get him to come up hill or straight to you.
Set up where that bird has to be within 30 yards of you before he can see you. Keep your gun pointed in the last direction he gobbled.
Listen for him walking, drumming etc... when you set up like this as soon as you see the bird, he's in range. Make him come looking for you with his head up!!
The first time that head pops up, don't move your gun, he's looking for movement of the hen.
He will bring it down and start walking, that's when you line up the gun.
Patience patience patience ... as long as he's closing the distance he's interested. Once he's answered you a few times and worked his way toward you, be quiet, soft purrs and scratching in the leaves will put him in your lap.
Everyone has different methods and tactics. You will develop your own over time.
Sometimes he just won't commit, usually that may be the case of over calling, hunting pressure and he may have been shot at a time or two.
In that case relocate, circle left or right calling as you go. Sometimes moving 40 yards left or right, even away from him will peak his interest and ad realism to your set up.
Good luck, it's very addicting to match wits with that old tom.
