We went out today to do a little scouting on our property.

First call I made I had three toms light up about 75 yards away through some small timber. I could see them well enough to see they had probably 6" beards. Tried calling a bit more to see if I could bring them in any closer but they had quite a few hens with them at the time.

Walked around a bit more and on the way back to the truck we ran into a flock with a half dozen or so toms in it, all with about 6" - 8" beards. It was a pretty deep snow pack this year even down low where these turkeys stayed. I'm thinking we won't have too many beards exceeding 8" this year due to it.

Anyhow, the turkeys are around for sure! Now if I can only get them to come in in April!

I don't want y'all to think I'm trying to rush in and take the team captain position here. I've participated in quite a few of these contests now so I just know to get things rolling pretty quick. Anybody wants to step in and take that spot you're more than welcome.