My final client of this Spring Gobbler Season is still in camp as I write this. He’s a great fellow from Cheyenne, Wyoming, who’s trying mighty hard to bring a trophy Osceola back home with him. But, difficulties are plaguing his attempt.
One problem is the lack of gobbling and the marked decline in breeding activity amongst the flocks. Still, I switched tactics and calling styles, which have allowed me to put two different long-bearded slobber knockers at spitting distance. But, he managed to miss both shots!
Now, after ruling out any mechanical malfunctions with the firearm, he grudgingly admits, that he simply let adrenaline overcome him and he fell apart both times a shot presented itself. But, both times, despite his lack of success, he smiled and looking me in the eyes said with adrenaline-fueled excitement, “What a rush!”
I got a kick out of that. He’s out today with one of my guides, trying again. I really admired the fact that he kept his spirits intact, because I have to agree, any time I get a giant tom to work in close, it really is a rush. The adrenaline flows, the excitement builds and sometimes it gets overwhelming. Probably why I’ve been addicted to turkey hunting for the last forty-five years. I too, love that rush!
A couple of tips I can pass along to you, which I’ve passed along to my clients; may help if you ever find yourself getting overwhelmed at the moment of truth. First tip: breathe. It’s not uncommon once that sudden surge of adrenaline hits you, that you get so hyper-focused on the gobbler strutting in, that you’re brain stops tending to even the most basic functions and you forget to breathe. Conscious, deep breathing; in through the nose and out through the mouth will keep you oxygenated. It will also provide a distraction from the adrenaline panic a lot of hunters experience and can help you keep it together…. At least until after the shot.
Second tip: talk it out. Look, I’ve experienced the adrenaline rush, and other than breathing deeply, I’ll begin a very quiet dialogue with myself to help coach myself through the shot. “Hold steady, he’ll be in range soon. Wait him out! Here it comes. Check the safety, finger on the trigger. Okay, squeeze it, calm down, you can do this.” Boom!
It might sound silly, but it works for me. And maybe, when you’re in that situation, it can work for you too. As always, I really enjoy hearing from you all, so if you have any questions or comments or just have a story to share, reach out to me at [email protected]. God Bless, and good hunting!
