The term “Turkey Shoot” might conjure up visions of hunters roaming the woods hunting for these wily birds. Then you see a sign promoting a Turkey Shoot being held every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for the next several weeks. You might wonder: How many turkeys can possibly be up in those woods?
It turns out that there are more than a few turkeys roaming the wooded property that makes up the Boothbay Region Fish and Game Associations’ enclave. Rest assured — none of these wild birds are being shot, at the very least not during a Turkey Shoot.
Turkey Shoots can vary in format from region to region, but all involve some sort of target shooting using shotguns, rifles, and sometimes handguns. The contests can require blind luck or honed marksmanship, meaning there’s something for every level of shooter to enjoy.
The BRF&GA’s 2022 Turkey Shoots are being held starting the first Sunday in October (Oct. 2) and each Sunday through the first Sunday in November (Nov. 6) from 10 to 2 on the club property located at 447 Dover Road, Boothbay.
The following contests are held each Sunday, and the winners will win a variety of frozen food prizes, including turkeys:
Card Shoot: A shotgun event where participants shoot at a 3” x 5” target from a distance of 50 feet. Whether you’re a grizzled marksman or a first time shooter you have an equal chance of winning this contest. The shooter with the pellet closest to the “X” in the middle of the target wins the prize.
Mechanical Target: Shooters use .22 rimfire rifles at a distance of 25 yards to take 5 shots at a reactive target of metal “spoons”. The shooter with the most “plinks” wins.
Skeet Shoot: A shotgun event. Clay pigeons are launched from a mechanical throwing device, and the object is to shoot both clays before they land. This shoot often takes multiple rounds to determine a winner, making for a great spectator event.
100-Yard Shoots: These events consist of two types of shooting – a bench rest shoot and an offhand (standing) shoot, both at a distance of 100 yards, This event is reserved for larger caliber rifles generally used for hunting. The object is simply to have the most accurate shot in the bullseye.
All events are open to the public and all ages are welcome. Minors must be accompanied by an adult. Hearing and eye protection are required. Food and refreshments will be served for nominal prices. Entry fees per event will be determined on the day of the competition, but will also be nominal given the cost of food prizes and ammunition costs which are provided for some of the events. Come on up to the club and join in, or just enjoy a juicy burger and watch!
A turkey shoot is a fun shooting competition where participants try to hit a target in order to win prizes, usually turkeys or other meat. Despite the name, no actual turkeys are shot! Turkey shoots have a long history in rural America and remain a popular event today
The History and Origins of Turkey Shoots
Turkey shoots likely originated in the 18th or 19th century as a contest where live turkeys were tied up and shot at. If the turkey was killed, the shooter got to take it home for Thanksgiving dinner. Another early version involved turkeys in cages with slots that allowed their heads to poke out. Shooters had to carefully aim and shoot the turkey in the head in order to win it.
The modern version of turkey shoots emerged in the early 20th century as a way for clubs and organizations to raise money by charging an entry fee and awarding prizes of turkeys, hams, roasts, and other meats. This accessible shooting competition allowed people of all ages and skill levels to participate for the chance to win.
While turkey shoots have evolved over time they retain their fun, luck-based nature and communal spirit. They bring people together for friendly shooting competition and good-natured bets on who will take home the bird.
How Turkey Shoots Work
Turkey shoots have simple rules that level the playing field. They usually involve shooting shotguns at paper targets from around 25-35 yards away. Here’s a step-by-step overview:
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Participants pay an entry fee, often just a few dollars, and are assigned a shooting position.
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All shooters load single shells provided by the event into their shotguns. 12 gauge is most common, but smaller gauges are also allowed.
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On the call, shooters fire at their paper target which has a bullseye or X marked.
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Event staff retrieve the targets and determine which shooter hit closest to the center. That person wins a prize!
Turkey shoots rely entirely on luck. The scattering shot pattern makes accuracy irrelevant. All it takes is a single pellet in the right spot to win. This gives everyone from kids to experienced marksmen an equal chance at each round.
Turkey Shoot Strategies and Tips
You can’t control luck, but there are some strategies that may marginally improve your odds:
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Use a 12 gauge shotgun for a higher pellet count. Some events only allow smaller gauges to level the playing field.
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Opt for a full choke barrel to concentrate the shot pattern. However, some shoots ban modified chokes or scopes.
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Study your shotgun’s pattern by test shooting at 25 yards before attending.
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Arrive early to view targets and lighting. Position yourself with the sun at your back if able.
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Relax, have fun, and don’t overthink! Winning is largely based on chance.
Turkey Shoot Prizes and Motivations
While bragging rights are a motivation, the main draw of turkey shoots is the prize giveaways. Popular prizes include:
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Frozen turkeys – The classic prize where the event gets its name.
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Hams, roasts, and sausages – Pork shoulders, legs, and ground meat products.
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Cash prizes – Sponsors may donate money to top shooters.
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Baked goods – Some shoots raffle off homemade pies, cookies, and cakes.
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Hunting equipment – Things like calls, decoys, and camo clothing.
For competitors, the entry fees are low, but the potential haul is high. Even novices have a decent shot at taking home a full turkey dinner! For hosts, the shoots bring in crowds and build community. The vibe is friendly competition and camaraderie.
The Appeal and Future of Turkey Shoots
While their popularity has waned over the decades, turkey shoots retain a strong niche in rural America. Their simplicity and lack of formal skill requirements make them accessible and appealing:
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They allow anyone to try shooting sports without investing in expensive gear or training.
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The prizes incentivize friendly competition and light gambling.
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Shoots build community and bring people together.
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They offer family entertainment and allow kids to participate.
Turkey shoots carry on nostalgic traditions and fill a unique niche unlikely to be replaced. Don’t be surprised if you see turkey shoot signs pop up around Thanksgiving and Christmas when the prizes are most coveted. Whether you’re an expert shooter or have never handled a gun before, turkey shoots offer old-fashioned shooting fun.
Serving Boothbay, Boothbay Harbor, Southport & Edgecomb since 1876
The term “Turkey Shoot” might conjure up visions of hunters roaming the woods hunting for these wily birds. Then you see a sign promoting a Turkey Shoot being held every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for the next several weeks. You might wonder: How many turkeys can possibly be up in those woods?
It turns out that there are more than a few turkeys roaming the wooded property that makes up the Boothbay Region Fish and Game Associations’ enclave. Rest assured — none of these wild birds are being shot, at the very least not during a Turkey Shoot.
Turkey Shoots can vary in format from region to region, but all involve some sort of target shooting using shotguns, rifles, and sometimes handguns. The contests can require blind luck or honed marksmanship, meaning there’s something for every level of shooter to enjoy.
The BRF&GA’s 2022 Turkey Shoots are being held starting the first Sunday in October (Oct. 2) and each Sunday through the first Sunday in November (Nov. 6) from 10 to 2 on the club property located at 447 Dover Road, Boothbay.
The following contests are held each Sunday, and the winners will win a variety of frozen food prizes, including turkeys:
Card Shoot: A shotgun event where participants shoot at a 3” x 5” target from a distance of 50 feet. Whether you’re a grizzled marksman or a first time shooter you have an equal chance of winning this contest. The shooter with the pellet closest to the “X” in the middle of the target wins the prize.
Mechanical Target: Shooters use .22 rimfire rifles at a distance of 25 yards to take 5 shots at a reactive target of metal “spoons”. The shooter with the most “plinks” wins.
Skeet Shoot: A shotgun event. Clay pigeons are launched from a mechanical throwing device, and the object is to shoot both clays before they land. This shoot often takes multiple rounds to determine a winner, making for a great spectator event.
100-Yard Shoots: These events consist of two types of shooting – a bench rest shoot and an offhand (standing) shoot, both at a distance of 100 yards, This event is reserved for larger caliber rifles generally used for hunting. The object is simply to have the most accurate shot in the bullseye.
All events are open to the public and all ages are welcome. Minors must be accompanied by an adult. Hearing and eye protection are required. Food and refreshments will be served for nominal prices. Entry fees per event will be determined on the day of the competition, but will also be nominal given the cost of food prizes and ammunition costs which are provided for some of the events. Come on up to the club and join in, or just enjoy a juicy burger and watch!
What is a Turkey Shoot?
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