When it comes to turkey hunting, two primary strategies dominate the conversation: the high-energy run-and-gun approach and the patient, stealthy method of hunting from a blind. Each has advantages, and the choice depends on your hunting style, terrain, and turkey behavior.
To gain insight into the benefits of each method, I recently sat down with legendary hunter Fred Eichler. As a teenager, Fred Eichler, the Blocker Outdoors pro and host of Everything Eichler T.V., harvested his first turkey. Since that initial turkey, Eichler has enjoyed a life dedicated to pursuing wild turkeys. He has guided turkey hunters in Florida, Colorado, and Nebraska, noting that at its peak, they guided seventy-five to one hundred hunters each spring. Much of Eichler’s success in turkey hunting comes from his extensive experience hunting in various states and using different weapons. “I have taken turkeys with a recurve, compound, crossbow, rifle, muzzleloader, and handgun,” Eichler says. This spring, he aims to take his first turkey with a longbow, something he has not yet achieved in his impressive hunting career. Throughout his notable hunting profession, Eichler has employed the run-and-gun style of turkey hunting and hunting from a ground blind. Each method has its advantages, and Eichler has helped highlight those for turkey hunters to discover before pursuing their birds this coming spring.
The Biggest Advantage of Run and Gun Hunting
The primary advantage of run-and-gun turkey hunting is mobility. This method enables hunters to cover more ground quickly, adapt to moving gobblers, and adjust to changing conditions. “Run-and-gun hunting is easier because it requires minimal equipment,” says Eichler. He adds, “This approach increases your chances of success since you’re not waiting for a turkey to come to you. Instead, you can actively seek them out, apply pressure, and provoke a response.” Eichler also notes that when guiding clients on shotgun hunts, their success rates are significantly higher when using the run-and-gun strategy.
Turkeys are unpredictable, and the ability to close the distance or reposition quickly can make the difference between a successful hunt and coming home empty-handed. In heavily wooded or hilly terrain, the run-and-gun method excels. As Eichler states, hunters can navigate through cover, call aggressively, and pinpoint a tom’s location without being anchored to one spot. This strategy has also been observed to work effectively in areas with low turkey density, where waiting for birds to come to you might not prove effective.
The Biggest Advantage of Blind Hunting
On the other hand, blind hunting offers unparalleled concealment and comfort. Turkeys have exceptional eyesight, making it incredibly challenging to remain undetected while sitting in the open. A well-placed blind minimizes movement, masks your silhouette, and allows you to remain hidden while calling.
Blinds are particularly beneficial in open fields, agricultural areas, or when hunting with a bow. Eichler said that shotgun hunters do better with run-and-gun hunting, yet he says that their client’s success rates, when using a bow increase when using a blind style of hunting because it is much harder to draw a bow in the open.
A ground blind is an excellent option for introducing young kids or novice hunters to turkey hunting. “In a blind, I can better guide a child or new hunter, coaching them on when to take the shot and walking them through the process,” explains Eichler. The enclosed space provides a more relaxed environment where movement is less likely to startle birds. As Eichler and I exchanged hunting stories and tips, we agreed that hunting from a blind helps keep kids engaged and enhances their overall experience. On a past hunt with disabled youth, we faced the challenge of keeping them entertained when the action slowed. I vividly remember the blind floor was scattered with snack wrappers, candy, and drink bottles, yet the turkeys remained unaware. A ground blind allows kids to enjoy snacks and have fun while staying hidden from the keen eyesight of wild turkeys.
Best Way To Locate a Gobbler When Run and Gun Hunting
The key to success when employing the run-and-gun method is engaging in a conversation with a vocal tom. Start using a locator call, such as an owl or crow call, to trigger a shock gobble and reveal a turkey’s location. Eichler mentions that he often uses a crow call and an owl hoot, which he creates using his natural voice while cupping his hands together. He added that gobblers are so tense during the spring season that a loud noise from a crow or owl call shocks the tom enough that he can not resist gobbling back at the sound. Once you’ve pinpointed the general direction, move strategically while staying concealed.
Switch to a diaphragm or friction call as you close the distance to imitate a hen, drawing the gobbler closer. Always remain mindful of the terrain, using natural cover to break up your outline and keep a low profile.
Key Gear Essentials for Run and Gun Hunting
Mobility is critical for running and gun hunting and for carrying lightweight, functional gear. Here are some must-have items:
- Blocker Finisher Chest Pack – Designed for the run and gun hunter, this chest pack keeps your calls, locator calls, and other essentials organized and easily accessible. The ergonomic design allows quick access without fumbling through a backpack.
- Finisher Pro II Turkey Vest – Choose a vest with plenty of pockets for gear and built-in cushioning for comfort during sits.
- Compact Chair or Pad – A lightweight cushion or collapsible seat can make quick sits more comfortable.
- Locator and Turkey Calls – Carry a variety of calls, including diaphragm, slate, and box calls, to adapt to the turkey’s response.
- Camo Clothing—Blocker Outdoors’ camo apparel offers excellent concealment and comfort to keep you undetected. Blocker’s Finisher Turkey Series is available from two camo companies in three patterns: Realtree Orginal, Mossy Oak Bottomland, and Greenleaf.
Eichler says he likes to pack light while hunting with a shotgun and being mobile. “In my chest pack, I carry a minimum of three calls: a slate call, a box call, and a diaphragm call, yet I strive to be a minimalist. When blind hunting, Eichler mentions that he often feels like a pack mule heading to the blind. “I carry more gear when I know I will spend more time in one spot.”
Gear Essentials for Blind Hunting
Blinds offer the luxury of bringing along additional gear for comfort and convenience. Here’s what you’ll want to pack:
- Portable Ground Blind – Choose a blind with ample windows for visibility and silent adjustment options.
- Comfortable Chair – A sturdy, quiet chair with a backrest is ideal for long sits.
- Shooting Rest—A shooting stick or rest helps with steady, accurate shots for bowhunters or firearm hunters.
- Decoys – Place a hen or jake decoy within range to entice gobblers into your shooting lane.
Both run-and-gun and blind hunting have their place in turkey hunting, but how do you decide which approach to take? “I believe a hunter’s personal experience plays a major role,” says Eichler. “For instance, if I’m set up on a bird that isn’t responding, hasn’t flown down, or isn’t coming to my call right away, I prefer to move toward that bird or find another one rather than waiting, even though I know it might circle back in an hour or two.” He adds that while he has successfully used the run-and-gun method at all times of the day, experience has taught him when to be aggressive and when to wait patiently in a blind. By understanding the benefits of each strategy and equipping yourself with the right gear, such as the Blocker Finisher Chest Pack for mobility or a dependable ground blind for a stationary setup, you can increase your chances of success. Adapt your approach based on turkey behavior, terrain, and personal preference, and enjoy the excitement of the hunt.
