Arizona Turkey Hunting: A long time coming

Arizona Turkey Hunting
Arizona Merriam’s Turkey

It’s been a long time coming. Truth be told I’ve had a tag for the past six years and have spent quite a few weekends hiking, scouting, calling, and waiting. I’ve suffered rain, snow, unspeakable winds, missed opportunities and blown chances on my Arizona turkey hunting journey, but ultimately, I wouldn’t change anything about how my turkey hunt has unfolded over the years.

This year, everything came together on the last morning of the hunt, when that Merriam’s gobbler stepped out in the opening. Walking back to the truck with that heavy bird over my shoulder, I said a prayer of thanks for that turkey’s life, and for a good hunting buddy who helped put me in the right place at the right time.

Right now as I write this post, all I can think about is turkey and stuffing…and turkey sandwiches…and turkey chili…and turkey pot pie…

Arizona Turkey Hunting
A view from my evening stand
Turkey Calls
Turkey Calls
The hike out
The hike out
Plucking
Plucking
Arizona Merriams Turkey
Arizona Merriams Turkey
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22 Responses to “Arizona Turkey Hunting: A long time coming”

    • azwanderings

      Thanks David. I’ve got a good stock of turkey feathers now. Nothing like free tying material.

      Ben

      Reply
  1. Mike McLaughlin

    Nice! Saw several birds harvested this weekend along with some running for their lives from a couple guys with fly rods. Glad you scored, you have pit in the time.

    Reply
    • azwanderings

      Thanks Mike. I always seem to see plenty when I’m fishing. They’re alot harder to find when you’re actually looking for them. Thanks again.

      Ben

      Reply
  2. Tyler

    Heck yeah that’s a big guy. We smoked a 50lb domestic raised one and had food for a long time. Haha. Congrats!!!

    Reply
  3. Jeff C.

    Excellent, Ben. Great story and photos. I got my first of the year in Nebraska last week, and off in a couple of days to get my Colorado bird. Great time of the year……

    Reply
    • azwanderings

      Thanks Jeff. Good luck on your upcoming hunts.

      Ben

      Reply
  4. Bryan

    Great Job. Chased these for 3 years in the Black Hills prior to moving to AZ. Wasn’t ever able to seal the deal though, maybe this will be my motivation to go try again.

    Reply
  5. 33AD

    Awesome – I didn’t get drawn but hope the bonus point will help my odds next year.

    That’s a great looking bird – and a well-earned trophy.

    Custom or store-bought calls? If custom – please point us in the direction of the maker.

    Congrats again!

    Reply

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