I am just starting this. Don't worry, I will either find someone knowledgable to go with or maybe even hire a guide for my first hunt, but for now I'm just glassing from roads and trails while deer hunting and already getting an idea of what you all are so obsessed about.

So here's my first question - how can I tell a tom from a jake? I am pretty sure I've got gender down from reading websites and photos, but have not found anything that sez how to tell a tom from a jake.

Thanks in advance for helping another beginner.

Two ways I tell. A jake only has a one to 3 inch beard. Little stubby thing that pretty much sticks straight out. Also---if a jake begins to strut---the middle four to six tail feathers will be longer than the rest of the fan.

if you can get close enough, it has nubs for spurs too....lol......good luck to you.....

All good info. Does anyone pass jakes? I haven't killed a jake yet. I have always had longbeards come in first. (luck....not skill) Do you pass jakes?

Thanks for the replies. I'm going weekend after next. Found that experienced guy who is willing to waste a day on a newbie. He'll get paid back big-time.

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Not a thing wrong with harvesting a jake!!My first bird was a jake and my boys first birds were jakes and believe me it didn't lesson the overall experience at all!!!!!!