As a seasoned hunter and outdoor writer, I’ve spent years chasing gobblers across the country. One thing I’ve learned is that success in turkey hunting isn’t just about woodsmanship; it’s about communication. And when it comes to communicating with turkeys, the quality of your call makes all the difference. That’s where Mark Prudhomme custom calls come in. I’ve been testing and using Mark Prudhomme turkey calls for the last five seasons, and I’m consistently impressed with their realism, responsiveness, and ability to consistently bring birds into shooting range. This article will delve into why these calls stand out, how to choose the right one for your hunting style, and tips for mastering their use.
Why Choose Mark Prudhomme Custom Turkey Calls?
The turkey call market is saturated, so what sets Mark Prudhomme custom calls apart? It’s a combination of factors, starting with the meticulous craftsmanship. Each call is individually handcrafted by Mark Prudhomme himself, using carefully selected woods like cocobolo, walnut, and maple. This isn’t mass production; it’s artistry. But beyond aesthetics, the real difference lies in the sound. Prudhomme’s calls are known for their incredibly realistic clucks, purrs, yelps, and cuts. They aren’t just loud; they’re nuanced, mimicking the subtle variations in a hen’s vocalizations that turkeys readily recognize.
According to The National Wild Turkey Federation, understanding turkey vocalizations is crucial for successful hunting. A poorly executed call can spook a bird just as easily as a silent approach. Prudhomme’s calls are designed to minimize the learning curve and maximize your ability to produce convincing sounds.
The Importance of Wood Selection in Turkey Call Construction
The type of wood used in a turkey call significantly impacts its tone and responsiveness. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Cocobolo: Known for its rich, warm tone and excellent projection. Often preferred for yelps and cuts.
- Walnut: Offers a balanced tone, suitable for a variety of calls.
- Maple: Produces a brighter, crisper sound, ideal for purrs and clucks.
Mark Prudhomme expertly combines these woods to create calls with unique sonic characteristics. He often uses a combination of woods within a single call to achieve a wider range of sounds.
Types of Mark Prudhomme Turkey Calls: Finding the Right Fit
Mark Prudhomme offers a range of calls to suit different hunting styles and preferences. Understanding the differences between these types is key to selecting the right one for you.
Box Calls: The Beginner-Friendly Option
Box calls are arguably the easiest type of turkey call to learn. They consist of a box and a lid, and the sound is produced by striking the lid against the box. Mark Prudhomme turkey calls box calls are renowned for their smooth action and consistent sound quality. They’re a great choice for beginners, but experienced hunters also appreciate their versatility and ability to produce realistic calls at a distance. I often recommend a box call to new hunters because it allows them to quickly learn the basic mechanics of calling.
Slate Calls (Pot Calls): Versatility and Control
Slate calls, also known as pot calls, consist of a pot (typically made of slate, glass, or ceramic) and a striker. The sound is produced by rotating the striker across the surface of the pot. Slate calls offer a high degree of control and allow you to create a wide range of sounds, from soft purrs to loud, raspy yelps. Mark Prudhomme custom calls slate calls feature meticulously tuned surfaces and strikers for optimal performance. They require more practice than box calls, but the rewards are well worth the effort.
Diaphragm Calls: Hands-Free Operation
Diaphragm calls, also known as mouth calls, are inserted into the mouth and operated using the tongue and breath. They offer the ultimate in hands-free operation, allowing you to call while simultaneously scanning the woods. Diaphragm calls have a steeper learning curve than box or slate calls, but they’re essential for serious turkey hunters. Mark Prudhomme custom calls diaphragm calls are known for their comfortable fit and responsive reeds. I always carry a diaphragm call as a backup, even when primarily using a box or slate call.
Mastering the Art of Turkey Calling with Your Prudhomme Call
Having a high-quality call is only half the battle. You also need to know how to use it effectively. Here are some tips for mastering the art of turkey calling:
- Start with the Basics: Focus on mastering the fundamental calls – the yelp, cluck, purr, and cut. There are numerous online resources and instructional videos available to help you learn these calls. REI’s Expert Advice section has a great overview.
- Listen to Real Turkeys: The best way to learn to call like a turkey is to listen to real turkeys. Spend time in the woods observing their behavior and listening to their vocalizations.
- Practice Regularly: Like any skill, turkey calling requires practice. Set aside time each day to practice your calls, even when you’re not hunting.
- Vary Your Calls: Don’t just stick to one type of call. Mix things up to keep the turkeys interested. Use a combination of yelps, clucks, purrs, and cuts to create a realistic soundscape.
- Call Softly at First: Start with soft, subtle calls and gradually increase the volume as needed. Avoid calling too loudly, especially when turkeys are close.
- Pay Attention to the Response: Listen carefully for a response from the turkeys. If they answer, adjust your calling strategy accordingly.
Advanced Calling Techniques
Once you’ve mastered the basics, you can start experimenting with more advanced calling techniques, such as:
- Cutting: A series of sharp, staccato yelps used to get a gobbler’s attention.
- Cackling: A loud, excited call used to simulate a hen that’s been disturbed.
- Piping: A series of high-pitched, squeaky calls used to attract a lost or lonely gobbler.
These techniques require a lot of practice and a good understanding of turkey behavior. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you.
Care and Maintenance of Your Mark Prudhomme Custom Call
To ensure your Mark Prudhomme custom calls last for years to come, it’s important to properly care for them. Here are a few tips:
- Keep it Clean: After each hunt, clean your call with a soft cloth to remove any dirt or debris.
- Store it Properly: Store your call in a protective case to prevent damage.
- Condition the Wood: Occasionally apply a wood conditioner to keep the wood from drying out.
- Replace the Striker (Slate Calls): Replace the striker when it becomes worn or damaged.
Beyond the Call: Ethical Hunting and Conservation
As responsible hunters, we have a duty to practice ethical hunting and support conservation efforts. Always follow all applicable hunting regulations and obtain the necessary licenses and permits. The USDA Forest Service provides valuable information on hunting regulations and safety. Furthermore, adhere to the principles of Leave No Trace (leavenotrace.org) to minimize your impact on the environment. Supporting organizations like the National Wild Turkey Federation helps ensure the future of turkey hunting for generations to come.
Investing in Mark Prudhomme custom calls is an investment in your hunting success. But remember, a great call is just one piece of the puzzle. Combine it with knowledge, practice, and a commitment to ethical hunting, and you’ll be well on your way to a rewarding spring turkey season. For more advanced tactics, check out my article on Setting Up a Perfect Turkey Blind. And if you're looking for the best camo patterns for spring turkey hunting, read Spring Turkey Hunting Camo Guide.