Hunting turkeys in big country is a different challenge altogether. Vast public land, rugged terrain, steep ridges, deep hollows, and miles of ground to cover can overwhelm even experienced hunters. But for those willing to put in the work, these landscapes can hold incredible turkey hunting opportunities.

In this episode, we’re joined by John Weik, host of the Northwest Spur Chasers, to talk about how to break down large tracts of land, locate gobblers in rough terrain, and use elevation, terrain features, and mobility to your advantage.

John shares practical strategies for hunting big landscapes—from map scouting and locating birds across huge drainages to deciding when a gobbler is worth the long hike. If you’ve ever wondered how to tackle massive public land properties or hunt rugged country more effectively, this conversation is packed with insight.

But the discussion goes deeper than tactics. We also talk about the importance of generosity in the turkey woods—sharing hunts with friends, mentoring new hunters, and finding ways to give back to those who have served our country. Because while chasing longbeards is exciting, the experience becomes even more meaningful when it’s shared with others.

Whether you hunt mountains, big timber, or expansive public ground, this episode will challenge you to think differently about both how you hunt and who you bring along with you.

Support the show

The pursuit is wild. Never stop learning. 🦃

Are you benefitting from the show? Please consider donating to help keep more episodes flowing. With monthly options as low as $3, it's a great way to support this podcast and keep it available for other turkey hunters too. Thank you for your generosity!

Gain access to our bonus content, merch, product discounts, and much more.
Visit us at www.davisfamilyhunts.com/podcast and subscribe to our newsletter to access our insider page and to keep up on the latest happenings!

You are invited to check us out on our YouTube channel, Wild About Turkey Hunting, which covers everything from turkey vocalizations to our experiences of hunting with kids. We’d love for you to subscribe so you can see watch more of our turkey hunting content. It would also be our privilege for you to follow us on Facebook and Instagram. Links are provided below:

😁Facebook | 📸Instagram | 🎥YouTube

Why do some gobblers come running… while others leave you questioning everything?

In this episode, we break down the six gobbler personalities every turkey hunter will encounter—and how recognizing each one can completely change the outcome of your hunt.

Because the truth is… it’s not always your calling that’s failing you.

It’s misreading the bird.

You’ll learn how to identify and adapt to:

• The gobbler that charges in without hesitation
• The one that gobbles at everything but won’t commit
• The silent, sneaky bird that shows up unannounced
• The tom that hangs up just out of range
• The bird that keeps moving away no matter what you do
• And the mid-morning opportunist most hunters miss entirely

We also talk about why a gobbler’s personality can change from one day to the next, and how the best hunters adjust in real time instead of relying on yesterday’s playbook.

This episode is packed with:

• Real-world tactics you can apply immediately
• Field-tested strategies to close the distance
• Stories and lessons from seasoned turkey hunters
• A listener personality quiz to test your instincts

If you’ve ever worked a bird that wouldn’t cooperate… this episode will help you understand why—and what to do about it.

Support the show

The pursuit is wild. Never stop learning. 🦃

Are you benefitting from the show? Please consider donating to help keep more episodes flowing. With monthly options as low as $3, it's a great way to support this podcast and keep it available for other turkey hunters too. Thank you for your generosity!

Gain access to our bonus content, merch, product discounts, and much more.
Visit us at www.davisfamilyhunts.com/podcast and subscribe to our newsletter to access our insider page and to keep up on the latest happenings!

You are invited to check us out on our YouTube channel, Wild About Turkey Hunting, which covers everything from turkey vocalizations to our experiences of hunting with kids. We’d love for you to subscribe so you can see watch more of our turkey hunting content. It would also be our privilege for you to follow us on Facebook and Instagram. Links are provided below:

😁Facebook | 📸Instagram | 🎥YouTube

What does it really take to consistently find success on an out-of-state turkey hunt? In this episode, we sit down with West Virginia turkey hunter Zach Lucas of GGG Outdoors/Kingdom Connection to break down the strategy, preparation, and woodsmanship behind effective turkey hunting.

Zach walks us through his e-scouting process, explaining how he goes from studying digital maps to boots-on-the-ground verification. He shares how to identify key terrain features like water sources, ridges, and potential roosting areas, and why understanding the landscape is critical before ever stepping into the woods. As Zach puts it, “Look for water, roosting areas, and ridges.”

We also dive into the importance of reading the environment in real time, balancing patience with aggression, and knowing when to adapt your plan in the field. From setup and concealment techniques to maintaining the right mindset, Zach explains how preparation and awareness can make the difference between a quiet morning and a successful hunt.

Whether you’re planning an out-of-state turkey hunt or looking to sharpen your woodsmanship and hunting strategy, this episode is packed with practical insights you can apply this season. Remember: “Always be assessing and reading the environment.”

In this episode, we cover:

• Zach’s step-by-step e-scouting process
• How to analyze terrain and habitat before a hunt
• The balance between patience and aggression in turkey hunting
• Effective setup and concealment techniques
• The role of preparation and mental readiness

Actionable takeaways:

• Research maps and gather intel before your trip
• Identify water sources and likely roosting areas during e-scouting
• Stay patient but be ready to adapt in the field
• Prioritize concealment and smart setup for better opportunities

If you're serious about improving your turkey hunting success, this conversation with Zach Lucas will help you think more strategically the next time you head into the woods.

Support the show

The pursuit is wild. Never stop learning. 🦃

Are you benefitting from the show? Please consider donating to help keep more episodes flowing. With monthly options as low as $3, it's a great way to support this podcast and keep it available for other turkey hunters too. Thank you for your generosity!

Gain access to our bonus content, merch, product discounts, and much more.
Visit us at www.davisfamilyhunts.com/podcast and subscribe to our newsletter to access our insider page and to keep up on the latest happenings!

You are invited to check us out on our YouTube channel, Wild About Turkey Hunting, which covers everything from turkey vocalizations to our experiences of hunting with kids. We’d love for you to subscribe so you can see watch more of our turkey hunting content. It would also be our privilege for you to follow us on Facebook and Instagram. Links are provided below:

😁Facebook | 📸Instagram | 🎥YouTube