I am new to turkey hunting (this is my first year), I have been doing some research on my own but still have lots of questions: how to place decoys, what is the best type of call for a beginner on a budget (I'm a freshman in college), shot load types, etc... any tips would be greatly appreciated!

Stick I am moving this to the main Turkey Forum as you will get more response.

And do read the information we have on tips and tricks here in the Tactics forum.

Goodluck this spring and do join in on the free HNI spring turkey contest here - its a fun event and you will be placed on a team randomly with other turkey hunters

JW

You wrote that you're on a student's budget, so here's some advice.

1. Call....slate, many reasonable and very functional models can be had for $14-$20.

2. Turkey load......any 12ga copper plated lead shot load 3", shot size 4,5, or 6. There are some smoking fast head vaporizing loads out there, but performance costs $. Federal or Winchester should do it. (3.5" shells are overkill IMHO)

3. Don't get hung up on decoys too much. They work, but there's a lot of hunters who swear the best place to put them in your garage or attic.

A single hen decoy facing me, at 20-25yds, 45deg off one shoulder works for me. Some guys use a single jake decoy, making it look like a jake's trying to sneak in silent.
A jake placed a few steps behind a hen on the ground, looks like she's squatting to be bred might get that ol'gobbler fired up.

There's more, a lot more but hopefully this helps.
PS...they're eyesight is as good as they say....that's no guff.

thanks for the advice!