Merriam’s hens don’t have as sharp of a cut as other subspecies of turkey hens. It’s more of a popping or pit sound. Listening to real Merriam’s hen calls helps identify the difference in their calls versus other subspecies. To produce the pit sound, Grossenbacher blows the air through the side of the call and smacks his lips together to get the popping sound. It’s definitely a call that needs practicing before heading out to hunt Merriam’s.
Up Next in Josh Grossenbacher Turkey Calling Tips
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How to use a Glass or Slate Turkey Ca...
Slate or pot style calls are a type of friction turkey call. It has two pieces, a slate or glass “pot” and a striker. Hold the striker like a pencil and flip the top end away so the striker is at an angle moving back towards you. Create a yelp by making a small circle, oval or diagonal motion wit...
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How to Condition a Turkey Call Strike...
Keep your striker tip clear of any debris or dirt that may have built up on the tip. Some pot calls have a hole that serves just that purpose. If your call does not have a built-in striker cleaner, just take some sandpaper and sand off any build up. Taking care of your calls is important for crea...
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How to Condition a Slate Turkey Call ...
You always want to make sure your call surface is conditioned properly for effective calling. On a slate surface, Scotch-Brite™ will remove moisture, oil or smoothness from the plate that may affect the striker movement and friction.
