Keeping Bugs at Bay in the Turkey Woods

For turkey hunters or anyone else tromping through the wilds, three effective ways to defend against spring’s insect hordes.

I’ll admit that I’m a little concerned about Lyme disease, but not so much about Zika virus, West Nile virus, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, yellow fever, dengue, or even chikungunya. I think that’s most of the insect-borne ills that turkey hunters have to face each spring. But I am terrified of chiggers. Let me tell you what body part chiggers seem to prefer. Actually, I won’t tell you. I will only say that these tiny demons flock to the moist places, the dark places, and set up shop in cracks and crevices. And they never come alone. So, use your imagination.

But what I really worry about is scratching a bug bite itch right when Ol’ Gob comes through the oaks. I don’t like blowing chances in the turkey woods, and I don’t like taking chances with bugs. When it comes to repelling the spring hordes, be they flying, creeping, or crawling, a strong defense is the best offense. I’ve used all three of these products, and all three work very well, in the turkey woods, on a farm pond, or on the back porch.

Check out the full article written by T. Edward Nickens here.

LAST UPDATED

October 4, 2023

Written by
Photo thumbnail Blog Author

T.Edwards Nickens

Explore More Content

Media Mentions

Before setting foot in the outdoors, pre-treat your clothing (boots, socks, pants, shirts, jackets, etc), tent and other gear with permethrin - but do not put it on your skin!

Outdoor Element
Contributing Writers

Media Mentions

Our current favorite is the Sawyer Squeeze, which we highly recommend grabbing for your trip.

Dave Collins
Founder, CEO & Editor-in-Chief

Media Mentions

[The Sawyer Squeeze] water filter system is the gold standard for many thru-hikers and backpackers across the globe.

Chris Carter
Senior Editor