The Best Turkey Hunting Clothes: Our Top 5 Picks
The crisp morning air bites your cheeks as you crouch behind a fallen log. Your heart races as you hear the faint gobble of a tom in the distance. But are you ready for this moment? Your success might depend on what you’re wearing, so you need the best turkey hunting clothes.
Hey there, fellow turkey hunters! I’m Jimmy, and I’ve been chasing gobblers for over 20 years. Today, we will discuss something that can make or break your hunt: your clothes. Trust me, I’ve learned the hard way that what you wear matters just as much as your calling skills or your shotgun. So, let’s dive into the world of turkey hunting clothes and ensure you’re dressed for success on your next adventure.
The Importance of Camouflage
When it comes to turkey hunting, blending in is everything. I remember my first hunt – I showed up in blue jeans and a green jacket, thinking I was sneaky. Boy, was I wrong! Those sharp-eyed birds spotted me from a mile away.
Here’s the deal: turkeys see colors differently than we do. They can pick up on blues and reds well, so most hunting camo avoids those colors. Instead, go for patterns with many browns, greens, and grays.
My favorite camo patterns for turkey hunting are:
Mossy Oak Obsession
Realtree Edge
TrueTimber Kanati
These patterns use a mix of leaves, branches, and shadows to break up your outline. That’s key because turkeys are experts at spotting anything that looks out of place.
Pro tip: Remember to camouflage your face and hands, too. I’ve had turkeys spook because they spotted my pale face peeking behind a tree. A face mask or camouflage face paint can make a huge difference.
Layering for Comfort and Stealth
Turkey hunting often means sitting still for hours, sometimes in chilly weather. That’s where smart layering comes in. Trust me, there’s nothing worse than shivering so hard you scare off a gobbler!
Here’s how I layer up:
Base layer: Start with a thin, moisture-wicking layer. I like merino wool or synthetic materials that keep you dry. Avoid cotton – it holds onto sweat and can make you cold.
Mid-layer: This is your insulation. On cold mornings, I go for a fleece or lightweight puffy jacket. Look for something quiet – no noisy materials that rustle when you move.
Outer layer: This is your camo layer and protection from wind and rain. A good hunting jacket and pants are worth the investment. Look for ones with pockets for calls, shells, and snacks.
Remember, you can always take layers off if you get too warm. It’s better to have options than to be freezing in the woods.
Headwear That Hides and Protects
Your head is often the highest point of your body when you’re sitting or crouching, which means it’s what a turkey might see first. That’s why good headwear is super important.
Face masks
These are a must-have in my book. They hide your face and break up the outline of your head. Plus, they protect you from mosquitoes and ticks. I prefer a full mask covering my head, but some turkey hunters like a face cover.
Hats
A good camo hat helps shade your eyes and break up your silhouette. Some hunters swear by wide-brimmed hats for extra coverage, but I find a regular baseball-style cap works fine, especially if I also wear a face mask.
Sunglasses
These aren’t just for looking cool. The right pair can protect your eyes from sun glare and help you spot movement in the woods. Look for a pair with a camo frame and lenses that enhance contrast.
I once forgot my face mask and had to improvise with a bandana. It worked in a pinch, but I felt so exposed! I always keep a spare mask in my vest, just in case.
Gloves: Balancing Warmth and Dexterity
Gloves are tricky for turkey hunting. It would be best to have them for warmth, but they can get in the way when you try to use calls or handle your shotgun. Here’s what I’ve learned over the years:
Types of hunting gloves
Thin-liner gloves are great for early-season hunts. They give you a good feel for your calls and guns.
Fingerless gloves: My go-to choice. They keep my palms warm but let my fingers move freely.
Full insulated gloves: For those really cold mornings. I carry a pair but often take them off when it’s time to call.
I always bring an extra pair of gloves. Nothing’s worse than wet, cold hands during a hunt.
Pro tip: Practice using your calls and gun with gloves before the season starts. It can feel different, and you don’t want to be fumbling when a big tom shows up!
Footwear for Silent Stalking
Your feet are your ticket to finding turkeys, so treat them right. Good footwear can make or break your hunt.
Boots vs. sneakers
Boots: Great for rough terrain and wet conditions. They protect your ankles and keep your feet dry.
Sneakers: Some hunters swear by them for silent movement. They’re lighter and more flexible.
I prefer a lightweight, waterproof hunting boot. Here’s why:
Ankle support is crucial when you’re carrying gear through uneven ground.
Waterproofing keeps your feet dry during early morning dew or unexpected creek crossings.
The right sole can give you a good grip without picking up mud that’ll weigh you down.
Remember, break in your boots before the season. Blisters are no fun when you’re trying to track down a turkey!
Accessories That Make a Difference
It’s the little things that can really up your turkey hunting game. Here are some accessories I never leave home without:
Turkey vest
This is like a wearable toolbox for turkey hunters. It’s got pockets for calls, shells, snacks, and even a padded seat for those long hunts. Mine’s saved my back (and my rear) more times than I can count.
Knee pads
You’ll appreciate knee pads if you’ve crawled through briars to get closer to a turkey. They’re lightweight and can save you from some serious scratches.
Rain gear
Weather can change fast in the woods. I always pack a light rain jacket and pants. They’re easy to throw on and keep you in the game when other hunters head home.
I once forgot my rain gear and got caught in a downpour. I was soaked to the bone and had to call it quits early. Never again!
Scent Control: An Often Overlooked Factor
Now, you might be thinking, “Scent control? That’s for deer hunting!” But hear me out. While turkeys don’t have a great sense of smell, other animals in the woods do. The last thing you want is a deer snorting and blowing your cover just as that big tom is coming into range.
Here’s what I do to control scent:
Wash all my hunting clothes in scent-free detergent.
Store them in a sealed tub with some cedar chips or pine needles.
Before heading out, I use a scent-blocking spray on my boots and outer layer.
It might seem overkill, but I’ve had too many close encounters with deer and coyotes to ignore scent control. Plus, it’s a good habit if you’re a multi-species hunter.
That covers the main gear aspects of turkey hunting clothes. The next section will discuss some budget-friendly options for new hunters. After all, we all started somewhere, and you don’t need top-of-the-line gear to bag your first bird!
Budget-Friendly Options for New Hunters
Listen, I know hunting gear can get expensive fast. But don’t let that stop you from getting out there. Here’s how to gear up for turkey hunting without breaking the bank:
Essential pieces to invest in first:
Where to find deals:
End-of-season sales: Stock up for next year when prices drop.
Online marketplaces: You can find great gear used by other hunters.
Discount stores: They often have decent camo at lower prices.
DIY alternatives:
Face paint instead of a mask
Old camo from other types of hunting (check the colors)
A camo t-shirt over a warm base layer instead of a hunting jacket
Remember, the most expensive gear doesn’t always mean the most birds. I’ve seen guys in top-dollar outfits get outsmarted by turkeys while others in mix-and-match camo bring home gobblers.
Conclusion: Best Turkey Hunting Clothes
Alright, let’s bring it all together. Here’s what we’ve covered:
The importance of good turkey hunting camo
Layering for comfort in any weather
Protecting your head, hands, and feet
Accessories that can make your hunt easier
Scent control tips when turkey hunting
How to get started without spending a fortune
The key takeaway? Your turkey hunting clothes are tools, like your gun or calls. The right turkey hunting gear can help you stay hidden, comfortable, and ready for action.
But here’s the most important thing: don’t let perfection be the enemy of good. If you’re starting, focus on the basics. Get camouflage that matches your hunting area, dress in layers, and protect yourself from the elements. You can always upgrade as you go.
Remember, the best turkey hunting outfit is the one that gets you out in the woods. A turkey doesn’t care if your camo is last year’s pattern or your boots are name-brand. What matters is that you’re out there, being patient, and enjoying the hunt.
So gear up however you can, and get out there. Those gobblers are waiting; now you know how to dress for success. Who knows? Maybe I’ll see you in the turkey woods someday. Until then, happy hunting!
