5/14 bearded hen

[whaler1]

Went out with my bow this morning. Have been trying to get an old Tom I've seen a few times. Had a pair of hens come in, one with a nice beard. I've never shot a bearded hen and decided to take a clean shot if one presented itself. Unfortunately the one without the beard kept getting in the way and didn't get the shot I wanted.

About an hour later they came through again and the Rage did its job, bird flopped for a little bit and that was it!

[JakeyBaby]

That's awsome Billy! A bearded hen with a bow... to me is the pinnacle of Turkey hunting! Congrats on a truly great bird

[whaler1]

Thanks Matt!

[whaler1]

I'm not sure how to age a hen but the breast meats darker than some Toms I've shot. Beard was 7 inches. Might have mounted it but it got pretty screwed up flopping around.

[JakeyBaby]

Gotta mount it ni matter what!

[whaler1]

Too late now brother. Back out for the Tom in the morning. Best part is my bow spot is a mid, late morning spot. Get to have a big breakfast and then relax in the double bull blind. Pretty comfy stuff.

[Legacy]

[whaler1]

So I had my chance at the big Tom this morning and I blew it. He came in a little nervous and I must have hurried the shot. I thought it was clean and that I put a good hit on him but when I found the arrow there was no blood at all. That's the only good thing, I think he will be fine. Really beautiful bird, I should have been more patient. My heart was pounding. I know it happens. I know it's all part of it. I know it sucks!!!!!!!

[whaler1]

Good news, saw the big Tom this morning. Couldn't get a shot with my bow. Still have a little time left to get him.

[Trick3]

Nice! My first turkey ever was a bearded hen. They say that it's pretty rare. Congrats and good luck with that Tom!