Calls and attractants come in various forms, each designed to mimic natural sounds or scents that entice game animals. Let's explore some of the most popular types:

Deer calls are arguably the most well-known type. They replicate a variety of deer vocalizations, including doe bleats (distress call), buck grunts (social and breeding calls), fawn bleats (distress or hunger calls), and rattling antlers (simulating bucks fighting). These calls can be used to attract does during rutting season, as well as curious fawns and even mature bucks.

• Doe Bleat Calls: Mimicking the sound of a distressed doe is an excellent way to draw in bucks looking for mating opportunities.
• Buck Grunt Calls: Used primarily during the rut (mating season), these calls imitate the sounds male deer make to attract does or challenge other males. There are several types, including soft grunts and loud rasps.
• Fawn Bleat Calls: These calls can be particularly effective in areas where deer populations are high and food is scarce. Fawns often respond to these calls as if they were separated from their mothers.
• Antler Rattling: Simulating the sound of bucks fighting over a doe during breeding season can trigger territorial behavior, causing nearby males to investigate.

Turkey hunting requires specialized equipment and knowledge due to the bird's keen senses. Turkey calls are designed to replicate various vocalizations made by turkeys, including yelps (distress calls), clucks (social sounds), purrs (courtship calls), and cuttings (aggressive sounds). The type of call you use will depend on the specific scenario and behavior you wish to elicit from your target.

• Yelpers: These calls mimic a hen turkey's distress or excitement, often drawing in gobblers looking for mates.
• Box Calls: A more traditional style of call that produces a wide range of sounds when two wooden surfaces are rubbed together. They offer good volume and versatility but require practice to master.
• Slate Calls: These calls use a slate surface and a striker to create various turkey vocalizations. They produce softer, more realistic sounds than box or mouth calls.
• Mouth Calls (Diaphragm Calls): Small devices placed in the mouth that allow hunters to mimic turkey sounds using their tongue and throat muscles. They require significant skill but offer unparalleled realism and versatility.

Scent attractants are a powerful tool for drawing deer, elk, and other game animals within range. These products typically contain natural or synthetic scents that imitate the odors of food sources (corn, acorns), female urine (doe estrus scent), or cover scents to mask human odor.

• Food-Based Attractants: Products like corn, apple slices, and mineral licks can attract deer and elk looking for sustenance.
• Doe Estrous Urine: During the rutting season, bucks are highly attracted to the scent of a doe in heat. Synthetic versions of this scent can be used to lure them within shooting range.
• Cover Scents: These scents help mask human odor, allowing hunters to get closer to game animals without detection. Products include pine, cedar, and earth scents.

Predator calls are designed to attract foxes, coyotes, bobcats, and other predatory animals. These calls mimic the distress sounds of prey species or mating signals that trigger a predator's hunting instinct. They can be used for both recreational purposes (hunting) as well as wildlife management (controlling problematic predators).

• Rabbit Distress Calls: Coyotes are highly attracted to the sound of a rabbit in distress, making these calls an effective way to lure them into range.
• Mouse Squeaks and Chirps: These sounds can attract bobcats and other small predator species looking for a meal.
• Crow Calls: Some predators, like foxes, will investigate crow calls thinking they're searching for food or potential rivals.

Selecting the right call or attractant is crucial for success in hunting. Here are some key features to consider:

1. Realism: The more realistic a call sounds, the better your chances of attracting game animals. Look for calls that replicate natural vocalizations accurately.
2. Volume: Depending on the terrain and target species, you may need a loud call or a soft whisper. Consider the acoustics of your hunting area when choosing a call with appropriate volume.
3. Versatility: Some calls are designed to produce only one sound (e.g., doe bleat), while others offer multiple options. Versatile calls allow you to adapt to different situations and target species more effectively.
4. Ease of Use: Different types of calls require varying degrees of skill and practice. Choose a call that suits your experience level and comfort zone.
5. Durability: Calls are often subjected to harsh weather conditions, so it's important to choose models made from durable materials (e.g., wood, metal, plastic) that can withstand the elements.
6. Scent Strength & Longevity: For attractants, consider how long they will last and how far their scent will travel. Stronger scents may be more effective but could also alert other hunters in the area.

Incorporating calls and attractants into your hunting strategy offers several advantages:

• Increased Hunting Success: By mimicking natural sounds or scents, these tools can entice game animals closer to you, increasing your chances of a successful hunt.
• Extended Range: Calls allow you to reach out and lure in game from further distances than simply waiting for them to appear.
• More Selective Hunting: Calls and attractants can target specific species or even individual animals (e.g., bucks during the rut), allowing you to be more selective about your quarry.
• Enhanced Experience: Using calls and attractants adds an extra layer of excitement and challenge to hunting, making it a more engaging experience for both novice and experienced hunters.