How to Blow a Mouth Turkey Call?

How to Blow a Mouth Turkey Call: Mastering the Art of Deception

Learning to blow a mouth turkey call effectively involves mastering breath control, tongue positioning, and practice. This article will guide you through the steps to produce realistic turkey sounds by explaining the proper techniques and addressing common challenges that beginners often face, helping you achieve realistic turkey sounds using a diaphragm call and fool even the wariest gobblers.

Why Learn the Mouth Call?

Mouth calls, also known as diaphragm calls, are a staple in any serious turkey hunter’s arsenal. They offer numerous advantages over other call types, making them invaluable for various hunting scenarios.

• Hands-Free Operation: The primary benefit is the ability to keep both hands free, crucial for managing your firearm or bow and remaining undetected.
• Realistic Sounds: Diaphragm calls, when mastered, produce incredibly realistic turkey vocalizations, far surpassing some other call types in mimicking subtleties of pitch and tone.
• Variety of Calls: A single mouth call can produce a wide range of turkey sounds, from soft clucks and purrs to aggressive cuts and yelps.
• Quiet Movement: Minimal movement is required to operate, vital for staying hidden and not alerting wary turkeys.

Understanding the Anatomy of a Mouth Call

Before diving into the technique, it’s essential to understand the components of a mouth call.

• Frame: The U-shaped frame holds the latex reeds in place.
• Reeds: Thin layers of latex (single, double, or triple reeds) that vibrate to create sound.
• Tape: Adhesive tape secures the reeds to the frame and seals the call against the roof of your mouth.
• Cut: The specific cut of the reeds determines the tone and variety of sounds it can produce.

The Step-by-Step Guide to Blowing a Mouth Call

Mastering the mouth call requires patience and practice, but following these steps will put you on the right track.

1. Call Placement:
   • Gently place the call in the roof of your mouth with the reed facing down and the frame resting comfortably against your teeth.
   • Ensure a good seal between the call and your palate to prevent air leakage.
2. Tongue Pressure and Positioning:
   • This is where the magic happens. Your tongue acts as a valve, controlling the airflow and sound.
   • Practice saying words like “Chirp, Keow, Yelp, or Spit“. Notice how your tongue interacts with the roof of your mouth.
   • Experiment with different tongue pressures. A lighter touch will produce softer sounds, while more pressure creates sharper, more aggressive calls.
3. Breath Control:
   • Consistent and controlled airflow is crucial. Avoid puffing your cheeks or using excessive force.
   • Focus on exhaling smoothly and evenly. Think of it as blowing a light stream of air over the reeds.
4. Creating Sounds:
   • Yelp: Start with a gentle “yelp” sound. Place your tongue against the roof of your mouth and release it while exhaling. Practice varying the speed and pressure to create different yelp variations.
   • Cluck: Produce a short, sharp “cluck” by quickly pushing air over the reeds with a slight tongue movement.
   • Purr: This is a softer, more subtle sound. Use a relaxed tongue position and gentle airflow to create a low, rumbling “purr.”
   • Cut: A cut is a series of rapid, sharp yelps. Practice alternating between a high-pitched and low-pitched yelp.
5. Practice, Practice, Practice:
   • Consistent practice is key. The more you practice, the more comfortable you will become.
   • Practice in front of a mirror to observe your tongue movements.
   • Listen to recordings of real turkey calls to compare your sounds and identify areas for improvement.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even experienced hunters can struggle with mouth calls. Here are some common mistakes and how to correct them:

• Poor Seal: Air leaking around the call prevents proper sound production. Ensure the call is firmly seated and the tape is making good contact.
• Excessive Airflow: Blowing too hard will create a harsh, unnatural sound. Focus on controlled, even airflow.
• Incorrect Tongue Placement: Experiment with different tongue positions until you find what works best for you.
• Using Old or Damaged Calls: Reeds degrade over time. Replace worn or damaged calls for optimal performance.
• Not Practicing Regularly: Muscle memory is essential. Dedicate time to practice, even when you’re not hunting.

Mouth Call Care and Maintenance

Proper care will extend the life of your mouth calls.

• Cleaning: Rinse calls with cool water after each use to remove saliva and debris.
• Storage: Store calls in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. A call case helps protect them from damage.
• Replace Tape: Replace worn or damaged tape to maintain a good seal and prevent air leakage.

Choosing the Right Mouth Call

The best mouth call for you depends on your experience level and desired sound.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I stop my mouth call from gagging me?

• Gagging is a common issue for beginners. Start by trimming the frame of the call to fit your mouth better. Additionally, practice wearing the call for short periods to acclimate to its presence. Focus on relaxing and breathing through your nose.

What’s the best way to learn how to control my breath?

• Breath control is essential for realistic calls. Practice diaphragmatic breathing (breathing from your stomach). Try lying down and placing a book on your abdomen. Focus on raising and lowering the book with your breath. This will help you develop better control and consistency.

How do I make my yelps sound less “tinny”?

• A “tinny” sound often results from excessive airflow. Try reducing the amount of air you’re using and focusing on a smoother exhale. Experiment with different tongue positions to find a more natural tone.

How often should I replace my mouth calls?

• The lifespan of a mouth call depends on usage and care. Replace your calls when the reeds become stretched, cracked, or produce inconsistent sounds. As a general rule, replacing them every season is a good practice, especially if you hunt frequently.

Can I use a mouth call if I have dentures?

• Yes, you can use a mouth call with dentures, but it might require some adjustments. Ensure the dentures fit securely and provide a stable platform for the call. Consider using denture adhesive for added stability. Experiment with call placement to find what works best.

What’s the best way to practice without annoying my family?

• Practice in a soundproofed area, such as a garage or basement. You can also practice softly or use a practice call designed to produce minimal sound. Be mindful of the time of day and avoid practicing during quiet hours.

Is it possible to produce realistic gobbles with a mouth call?

• Yes, but it requires advanced technique. Mastering the gobble involves complex tongue movements and breath control. Focus on creating a series of rapid, guttural sounds. Listen to recordings of real gobbles and try to mimic them as closely as possible.

How do I keep my mouth call from drying out while hunting?

• Keep your mouth call moist by storing it in your mouth or a designated call case with a damp sponge. Avoid letting it dry out completely, as this can damage the reeds. You can also periodically wet the call with saliva.

What does a cut sound like and when should I use it?

• A cut is a series of sharp, erratic yelps that mimic an excited hen. Use the cut when a gobbler is hung up (refusing to come closer) or when you need to spark his interest. It’s a more aggressive call than a standard yelp.

How can I determine the proper cut on a mouth call?

• Try multiple brands and cuts. Consider the thickness of the latex and frame to gauge the quality of a call. A call with thicker latex is designed for louder, more aggressive sounds. Ask about the unique purposes for specific cuts at your local hunting store.

Does reed color affect the sound of a mouth call?

• Not directly. The color of the latex doesn’t significantly affect the sound. What matters is the thickness and the cut of the reeds. Manufacturers may use different colors for identification purposes.

How important is the size of the mouth call frame for comfort?

• Frame size is crucial for comfort and effective use. A frame that’s too large can be uncomfortable and difficult to seat properly. A frame that’s too small might not provide a secure seal. Experiment with different sizes and shapes to find a call that fits your mouth comfortably and securely.

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