This was the second day of the season in Vermont. I work second shift, and didn't make it out in the woods at first light, like I would have liked. I watched 3 toms with a bunch of hens the day before following almost the same scenario by getting out in the woods late. There were not any birds out in the field as on opening day and I could easily make it to the spot I had in mind.

I set myself up at about 7 a.m. The weather was great, in the 80's, and there was still 2 feet of snow under the trees. These birds get call shy very quickly because of the hunting pressure in the area. I toned down my calling and just clucked and purred at about 20 minute intervals.

I didn't hear any gobbles or any signs of any turkeys around. I just sat there in that spot. I heard some noise behind me at 9 a.m. and there were 3 deer about 20 yards away passing through. I thought for sure I would get busted. They made it by with no incident.

I just started to relax again, from all of the excitement. I clucked a little bit, and purred again. I heard more noise coming from behind me. I thought it was another deer coming through. I slowly turned around, and I saw him sneaking through some brush. I don't think I have seen a big tom up close like that. Everything seemed to go right, and I finally got myself set up for a good shot on him.

It was a very enjoyable and unforgettable hunt.