Originally Posted by
jtred
They overwintered quite well in the valley, on private, but not so well on crown land out of the valley. At least two flocks possibly three seem to have disappeared completely. I spend a lot of time snowshoeing(every weekend) different drainages where animals overwinter and for one flock this is two years without seeing even a track or any sign let alone a bird. I don't know if it's the two harsh winters in a row, predators or what but I can't find them. Areas where for ten years in a row I could count on seeing lots of sign and often the flock now seem devoid of birds.
They did survive very well on private so if you can get permission or have permission already it should be a good hunt. It's a tough valley to get permission in though, personally I prefer hunting turkeys on crown in the mountains They are a completely different bird compared to private land birds that spend all year in someone's yard. The turkeys found up in the mountains are very wary and tough to get. They have to be, they are on the menu for just about everything with teeth.
Can't wait for opening day, spring turkey hunting is my favourite thing to do in spring. Best of luck to all those heading out this spring, stay safe.