Kansas Turkeys

[rjlefty3]

Im thinking of heading out to Kansas this spring to try my luck on some Rios. I've never hunted RIos or even been to Kansas so another thing I'd like to cross off my list. I'd likely hunt the NW part of the state (unless theres a better option) on public land. I looked at the public land guide online, and didn't see a whole lot for public land in that area. The land that was there did seem to be pretty decent terrain (at least on google earth).

Have any of you hunted in the NW corner? Are there any birds on public? I know I wouldn't be alone, but does it get hit hard? It would be a decent trip for me, so I just want to make sure it would be worth it.

And what is typically the best time to go - opening weekend or later in the season? Any input from you guys would be appreciated. Thanks in advance!

 

[Southwind]

I have never hunted turkey in NW but I am very familiar with the area. Bird population is has really come on up there and areas along Saline and Solomon Rivers or any of the drainages. Not a whole lot of public ground but most of the areas hold birds . You will want to check out our Turkey Walk In Hunting atlas when it comes out. You can view last seasons on the KDWPT site and get an idea of what will most likely be in the program.

I really don't think you would run into much competition up there and timing of your trip is anyone's best guess. It depends a lot on the year but I would normally say closer to May the birds will be hotter.

You could travel down further and in my area Eldorado lake holds real good numbers but the birds are likely rio/eastern hybrids although you probably would never know the difference. Most have more rio colors.

Good luck.

 

[rjlefty3]

Sounds like a good trip. Looking at the maps you're right, there isn't a ton of public land - but with a little effort hopefully I can run into them. Thanks for the info, appreciate the help!

 

[Summitthunting]

The farther east you go the more birds you'll find. Competition on the public lands is worse during the gun season, go archery if you can. The later you go in the season the more ticks you'll find. Check out the KDPW walk in hunting atlas and the public areas around lakes. Turkeys were made to be shot with a bow! Good luck, be safe.

 

[rjlefty3]

I figured archery would be more open. Probably only going to make it out there once and I've never done turkeys with a bow (yet), but I've been debating it. Looks like it might be worth a shot.

That's a beautiful bird. I'd love to get my hands on one of them!

 

[JohnCushman]

Summit...what broadhead do you use on turkeys? I've got Rage's that I bought for just turkeys.

 

[Summitthunting]

Muzzy 100gr 3 blades, I've killed 7 birds with those. Turkey bones are really hard and they play hell on broadheads. If you hit the bird right you won't get a pass through.

 

[JohnCushman]

Wow!!!

 

[rjlefty3]

Wow!!!

Wow is right.

Summit - what do you aim for? Do you try to pin the wings or wait for straight on/behind shots?

 

[Southwind]

With a Rage you don't have to filet them.

 

[Summitthunting]

I've never shot for the wing butt, usually hit them in the hips. Use the chart below and watch this over and over.

http://youtu.be/eQUb7KldE6k

 

[rjlefty3]

Thanks for the chart Summit!

Southwind - that's pretty impressive. I've never used them personally but I've seen what they can do on deer. Can't imagine the bird would go far regardless of where you would hit.

 

[Red Dirt Archer]

The early part of the year can be fun but the birds usually are bunched up and not as will to play. The end of April begining of May they really start to turn on. I have killed birds here opening day and the last day of season and as long as you are willing to stay after it I would think that you could have a good hunt. As discussed earlier alot of birds the farther east you go but most are hybrids. Look around the lakes and you will find public ground but it gets hit hard. I would take a really good look at the walk in hunting to find ground that isnt going to be hit as hard. Also dont be afraid to knock on a door or two. Most farmers hate turkeys and are more then happy to let someone try and kill a few.

 

[redwoood]

RJ,
You don't have to go that far west for rios. I have been to central Kansas several times for turkeys. If you look at the NWTF species map You'll see that the birds in central Kansas are considered Rios. There will be some hybrid birds but a lot of the birds are true Rios. I would look at the Kanopolis State Park area if I were you. As I said I have been there several years and only once did I not come back with 2 birds and I blew a shot that year. I have always gone shotgun but I am sure bow would be less competition. If you need get to checking it out and want more specific info send me a message. There is plenty of land and a lot of Walk in Areas around the park too.

 

[rjlefty3]

I was focusing on the NW corner just because it would save me a few hours of traveling. That being said, I'd be willing to travel father to improve my odds a bit.

For now, I've been focusing on looking for the walk in areas, but those state parks around lakes seem like a great place. I knew there would be some competition, but sounds like there's enough birds. I'm all for covering some ground and getting away from the crowds too. I'll look into some of those areas. Thanks for the info!