Turkey Hunts
Turkey hunting in northern New Mexico, especially around the Tres Piedras area, offers a unique experience. Located in Taos County, Tres Piedras is nestled in the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, and the surrounding landscape provides diverse habitats ideal for wild turkeys.
Types of Turkeys
Northern New Mexico is home to Merriam's turkeys, known for their distinctive white tail feathers and the black-and-white pattern of their wings. They prefer mountainous terrain, forested areas, and open woodlands, which makes Tres Piedras a perfect hunting location.
Hunting Seasons
Spring Turkey Season: The spring season is generally the most popular time to hunt turkeys, with hunters targeting the gobblers. This season usually runs from April to May. The peak of the turkey mating season, which is when gobblers are more vocal and responsive to calls, falls within this timeframe.
Fall Turkey Season: The fall season, generally September through November, is also a good time to hunt turkeys, but hunters tend to spot and stalk.
Hunting Conditions
The terrain around Tres Piedras can be quite rugged, featuring a mix of mixed-conifer forests, piñon-juniper woodlands, and open meadows. The high elevation can mean cooler temperatures, especially in the spring and fall, so you’ll want to be prepared for varying weather conditions. The mountainous environment also provides natural cover, and turkeys can be found in both forested areas and open ridgelines.
Access and Permits
Public Land: The area around Tres Piedras includes national forest lands, primarily part of the Carson National Forest. This land is open to public hunting, but you will need to obtain the appropriate licenses and follow New Mexico's hunting regulations.
Private Land: There are private properties in the area where you may need special permission to hunt. Some local outfitters offer guided hunts on private land.
Hunting Techniques
Calling: Turkeys are often called in using a variety of calls, including slate, box, or mouth calls. Spring hunters often use a combination of hen calls to attract gobblers.
Spot and Stalk: The mountainous terrain requires patience and the ability to move slowly through the woods, listening for the sounds of turkeys and looking for them in clearings or on ridgelines.
Decoys: Using decoys, especially during the spring, can help attract a gobbler into range by mimicking the presence of hens.
Turkey hunting in the Tres Piedras area can be a rewarding experience with the right preparation. With beautiful landscapes and a healthy turkey population, it's a fantastic place to hunt wild turkeys in northern New Mexico.