Haydels PW90 Predator Pileated Woodpecker Call

Unlock More Gobblers: The Haydel's PW90 Pileated Woodpecker Locator Call for Savvy Turkey Hunters

For dedicated turkey hunters, the thrill of hearing a tom gobble in response to a well-placed call is unmatched. Yet, in heavily pressured areas or challenging terrains, getting a locator call to elicit that crucial response can feel like an uphill battle. If you've ever found yourself asking, "What's the best way to locate turkeys when they're tight-lipped?" or "How can I get a gobbler to reveal his position without spooking him?", then the Haydel's PW90 Predator Pileated Woodpecker Call might be the game-changer you need.

This isn't just another turkey call; it's a strategic asset designed to cut through the noise and provide a distinct, non-threatening sound that often coaxes a response when more common calls fail. It’s an essential piece of equipment for both seasoned veterans looking for an edge and newer hunters aiming to increase their success rate in a sport that demands both skill and adaptability.

Why a Locator Call is Essential for Turkey Hunting Success

Every successful turkey hunt begins with locating the birds. Without knowing their general whereabouts, you're essentially hunting blind. Locator calls serve as a crucial scouting tool, allowing hunters to pinpoint a gobbler's roosting location before dawn, identify midday hangouts, or confirm their presence in a specific area. By mimicking non-turkey sounds, these calls trigger a shock gobble—a natural, instinctual response from a tom to unexpected, loud noises in his territory. This reaction doesn't spook the bird, but rather confirms his presence and direction, allowing the hunter to plan their approach.

Common locator calls include owl hoots, crow caws, and coyote howls. While effective, their widespread use means that turkeys, especially those in areas with heavy hunting pressure, can become accustomed to them. This "call fatigue" can lead to silent birds, leaving hunters frustrated and unable to get a read on the woods. This is precisely where a unique, less-frequently heard sound, like that of a Pileated Woodpecker, becomes incredibly valuable.

The Unique Power of the Pileated Woodpecker Sound

The Pileated Woodpecker (Dryocopus pileatus) is one of North America's largest and most striking woodpecker species, recognized by its distinctive red crest and loud, resonant calls. Their calls, often described as a loud, rapid series of "cuk-cuk-cuk-cuk" notes or a maniacal "wicker-wicker-wicker," carry significant distances through dense timber. These sounds are a natural part of the forest soundscape, familiar to wild turkeys but not typically associated with human predators.

This natural familiarity, combined with its distinct and attention-grabbing volume, makes the Pileated Woodpecker an ideal candidate for a turkey locator. Turkeys hear these sounds regularly and view them as part of their environment, leading to a natural, unhesitating shock gobble response. Unlike the aggressive and territorial sounds of a coyote or the common calls of an owl or crow, the woodpecker's sound is generally non-threatening, encouraging a response rather than silence or evasion.

How the Haydel's PW90 Predator Pileated Woodpecker Call Excels

The Haydel's PW90 is specifically engineered to replicate the authentic, piercing calls of the Pileated Woodpecker with remarkable accuracy. Haydel's Game Calls, a family-owned business with decades of experience crafting high-quality calls, understands the nuances of wildlife vocalizations. Their commitment to realism is evident in the PW90's design and sound output.

Crafted from durable, clear plastic, the Haydel's PW90 is built to withstand the rigors of the outdoors. Its robust construction ensures longevity, while its simple "open" call type makes it easy to master. The clear material not only looks sleek but also allows for easy inspection of the internal components, ensuring optimal performance.

Key Advantages of the Haydel's PW90:

• Uncommon Locator Sound: Provides an alternative to overused owl, crow, and coyote calls, often eliciting responses from otherwise silent or pressured turkeys.
• Highly Realistic Tone: Mimics the natural, loud cackle of a Pileated Woodpecker, a sound that resonates deep within turkey territory without alarming the birds.
• Effective in Pressured Areas: Specifically designed to work where other locator calls have lost their effectiveness due to turkeys becoming "call-shy."
• Versatile Application: Excellent for pre-dawn roost location, mid-morning recon, or confirming turkey presence in new areas.
• Durable Construction: Made from high-quality plastic, ensuring reliability season after season.
• Ease of Use: An open call design that's straightforward for hunters of all experience levels to operate effectively.

When you're facing a tough gobbler that refuses to answer traditional calls, the unique frequency and natural authenticity of the Haydel's PW90 can be the critical factor in getting that crucial shock gobble. It’s not just a call; it's a strategic advantage.

Mastering the Call: Techniques & Tips for the PW90

While the Haydel's PW90 is user-friendly, a few techniques can help maximize its effectiveness:

1. Listen First: Before using the call, pause and listen to the natural sounds of the woods. This helps you gauge the ambient noise level and identify any natural woodpecker activity.
2. Vary Your Calling: Don't just blow the same sequence every time. Experiment with the intensity and cadence. A typical Pileated Woodpecker call is a rapid series of loud "cuk-cuk-cuk" notes, sometimes fading or speeding up. Practice to emulate this natural variation.
3. Loud and Clear: The Pileated Woodpecker's call is naturally loud and carries far. Don't be afraid to put some air into the call to ensure it projects.
4. Strategic Pauses: After calling, wait for 30 seconds to a minute, listening intently for a gobble. Turkeys don't always gobble instantly; sometimes they need a moment to respond.
5. Directional Calling: If you suspect turkeys are in a certain direction, direct your call towards that area.
6. Use it Sparingly: While effective, over-calling can sometimes make turkeys unresponsive. Use it when you need to locate, then switch to turkey vocalizations once you have a response and are ready to set up.
7. Combine with Other Tools: The PW90 is a locator. Once a turkey gobbles, you'll need to employ other turkey hunting tactics, such as setting up decoys, using yelps, clucks, and purrs, and maintaining stealth to bring the bird within range.

The beauty of the PW90 lies in its simplicity and effectiveness. With a little practice, any hunter can confidently add this powerful locator to their arsenal.

When to Use the PW90: Real-World Hunting Scenarios

The Haydel's PW90 shines in several specific turkey hunting scenarios:

• Pre-Dawn Roost Locating: As the sky lightens, a few loud Pileated Woodpecker calls can often shock a gobbler off his roost, revealing his position before he flies down. This is crucial for setting up a strategic ambush.
• Mid-Morning Reconnaissance: When the woods are quiet and turkey vocalizations are scarce, a woodpecker call can help confirm if any birds are still in the area or have moved into a new feeding ground.
• Hunting Public Land/Pressured Areas: If you're on public land or hunting property that sees a lot of hunting pressure, turkeys are likely accustomed to standard owl or crow calls. The PW90 offers a fresh sound that can trigger a response from otherwise silent birds.
• Windy Conditions: The loud, sharp nature of the Pileated Woodpecker call can cut through wind better than some softer turkey vocalizations, making it effective on blustery days.
• Thick Cover: In dense timber or areas with significant foliage, the penetrating sound of the PW90 can travel further and more clearly, reaching turkeys that might be obscured from other sounds.
• When Nothing Else Works: Consider the PW90 your "ace in the hole" when you've tried all your other locator calls and haven't gotten a response. Its unique sound can often surprise a gobbler into giving away his location.

Adding the Haydel's PW90 to your hunting vest means you’re equipped for a wider range of conditions and a higher chance of striking a response from even the most elusive gobblers.

Beyond Locating: Building Your Comprehensive Turkey Hunting Strategy

While the Haydel's PW90 is a fantastic locator, it’s just one piece of a successful turkey hunting puzzle. A well-rounded strategy also involves:

• Effective Camouflage: Blending seamlessly into the environment is critical to avoid detection.
• Quality Shotgun/Bow: A reliable firearm or archery setup appropriate for turkey hunting.
• Turkey Decoys: Often essential for drawing in and holding a gobbler's attention once he's located.
• Turkey Vocalization Calls: Pot calls, box calls, and diaphragm calls are necessary to imitate hens and entice a gobbler closer.
• Patience and Stealth: Turkey hunting often requires long periods of waiting and slow, deliberate movements.
• Scouting: Understanding turkey habits, travel routes, and roosting areas beforehand significantly increases your odds.

The PW90 enhances your scouting phase, giving you the critical initial information needed to deploy these other strategies effectively. By knowing where the turkeys are, you can position yourself for the best possible shot opportunity, leading to more successful and ethical harvests.

Maintaining Your Haydel's Call

The Haydel's PW90 is designed for durability, but a little care can ensure it performs optimally for many seasons. Since it's made of plastic, it's generally low maintenance.

• Keep it Clean: If the call gets dirty or dusty, a quick wipe with a damp cloth will suffice. Avoid harsh chemicals.
• Store Properly: When not in use, store the call in a protected place, away from extreme temperatures or direct sunlight, which could potentially warp the plastic over long periods.
• Inspect Regularly: Occasionally check for any cracks or damage that might affect its sound quality. While unlikely with its robust construction, it's good practice.

With minimal effort, your Haydel's Pileated Woodpecker call will be a reliable companion on countless turkey hunts.

Why Choose Haydel's Game Calls? A Legacy of Excellence

Haydel's Game Calls has built a sterling reputation among hunters for producing realistic, effective, and durable calls. Originating from a deep passion for hunting and a profound understanding of wildlife, the Haydel family has dedicated decades to perfecting their craft. When you choose a Haydel's product, you're not just buying a call; you're investing in a piece of hunting heritage and expert craftsmanship. Their commitment to quality ensures that every call, including the PW90, performs reliably when you need it most, helping hunters achieve success in the field. This trusted legacy makes Haydel's a top choice for discerning hunters.

Get Your Haydel's PW90 Today at DEGuns

Ready to add this powerful locator call to your turkey hunting arsenal? The Haydel's PW90 Predator Pileated Woodpecker Call is readily available at DEGuns, your trusted source for premium hunting gear. Enhance your ability to locate and outsmart elusive gobblers, especially in areas where other calls fall short. Whether you're planning your spring turkey season adventure or preparing for a fall hunt, the PW90 is an investment that pays dividends in confirmed gobblers and increased hunting success. Don't let silent woods deter you—arm yourself with the unique advantage of the Haydel's PW90, available now at DEGuns.