Do I Need To Brine A Turkey Before Smoking It. Rinse the turkey inside and out. That is because, with a smoked turkey, the long slow and low heat actually doesn’t dry the bird out too quickly.

Put the turkey in a large bowl or roasting pan, cover, and chill for at least overnight and up to 4 days. Use a brine before smoking to help keep meat moist while cooking and to add flavor. Brines can include all sorts of flavorings including herbs and spices, making the turkey taste like far more than your average roast bird.