Calling all turkey hunters! North Carolina’s 2024 wild turkey season is right around the corner, kicking off with the youth-only season on April 6 and followed by the statewide season on April 13. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just starting out, this comprehensive guide will equip you with all the essential information you need to make your hunt a success.
Youth-Only Season:
- Dates: April 6-12, 2024
- Location: Statewide
- Bag Limit: 1 turkey (male or bearded only)
- Additional Information: Youth hunters under 18 must have a Big Game Harvest Report Card and report harvests according to instructions. License-exempt youth should use a Big Game Harvest Report Card for License-Exempt Hunters.
Statewide Spring Season:
- Dates: April 13 – May 11, 2024
- Location: Statewide
- Bag Limit: 2 turkeys for the season (male or bearded only), with only one taken during the youth season
- Additional Information: Check the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) website for specific regulations and updates.
Essential Gear:
- Shotgun: 10 gauge or smaller, 410 gauge or larger
- Bow: Minimum draw weight of 40 pounds
- Crossbow: Minimum draw weight of 70 pounds
- Broadheads: Non-barbed, minimum cutting diameter of 7/8 inch
- Camouflage: Choose patterns that blend with the environment
- Calls: Box calls, mouth calls, and slate calls are popular choices
- Decoys: Hen and jake decoys can be effective
- Safety Gear: Hunter orange clothing, eye and ear protection
Tips for Success:
- Scout your hunting area: Look for signs of turkey activity, such as tracks, droppings, and feathers.
- Practice calling: Mastering turkey calls can increase your chances of success.
- Be patient: Turkeys are wary creatures, so be prepared to wait for the right opportunity.
- Stay safe: Always follow safe hunting practices and wear hunter orange clothing during the season.
Additional Resources:
- NCWRC Wild Turkey Hunting: https://www.ncwildlife.org/Connect-With-Us/wild-turkey-season-opens-in-north-carolina-on-april-2
- NCWRC Hunting Regulations: https://www.ncwildlife.org/Hunting/Regulations
- eRegulations North Carolina Turkey Seasons & Regulations: https://www.eregulations.com/northcarolina/hunting/turkey-seasons-regulations
Get ready to experience the thrill of North Carolina turkey hunting! With careful preparation and a bit of luck, you’ll be strutting your stuff in the Tar Heel State in no time. Remember to always follow ethical hunting practices and enjoy the outdoors responsibly.
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NORTH CAROLINA Opening Day DOUBLE! (Turkey Hunting)
FAQ
What are the dates for turkey season in North Carolina?
Is turkey hunting good in North Carolina?
What hunting season is open in North Carolina?
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Hunting Dates
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Zones
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Sept 9 – Oct 1
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Haywood, Buncombe, Henderson, Transylvania
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Oct 15 – Nov 19
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Haywood, Buncombe, Henderson, Transylvania
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Sept 9 – Oct 1
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Swain, Jackson, Macon, Graham, Cherokee, Clay
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Oct 15 – Nov 19
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Swain, Jackson, Macon, Graham, Cherokee, Clay
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Do you have to tag a turkey in NC?