Can You Hunt Turkey with a .22 in Pennsylvania? A Comprehensive Guide

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Hunting turkeys in Pennsylvania is a popular pastime for many outdoor enthusiasts. However, with recent changes in regulations, some hunters may be wondering if they can still use their trusty .22 caliber rifle for this purpose.

The answer is no. As of July 15, 2022, Pennsylvania has implemented new restrictions on turkey hunting, prohibiting the use of muzzleloaders, slug guns, and handguns (all single-projectile firearms) during the fall season. This means that shotguns and archery gear are now the only legal means of harvest.

This change was enacted to help protect declining wild turkey populations within the state. While the .22 caliber rifle was not explicitly banned, it falls under the category of “single-projectile firearms” and is therefore prohibited.

If you’re looking to hunt turkeys in Pennsylvania, you’ll need to use a shotgun or archery gear. Shotguns are the most popular choice for turkey hunting, and there are a variety of different models and calibers available to choose from. Archery gear is also a viable option, and can be a more challenging and rewarding way to hunt turkeys.

Here’s a quick rundown of the current regulations for turkey hunting in Pennsylvania:

  • Fall Season: Shotguns and archery gear only. No single-projectile firearms (including .22 caliber rifles) are allowed.
  • Spring Season: Shotguns and archery gear are allowed. Single-projectile firearms (including .22 caliber rifles) are allowed during the special youth season and mentored youth hunts.
  • Daily Limit: 1 turkey per day, 2 turkeys per season (except during the special youth season and mentored youth hunts, where only 1 turkey may be taken).

It’s important to note that these regulations are subject to change, so it’s always best to check the Pennsylvania Game Commission website for the most up-to-date information.

Here are some additional resources that you may find helpful:

FALL WILD TURKEY – (Male or Female)

​WMU 2B (Shotgun and bow and arrow only): – Oct. 28-Nov. 17 and Nov. 22-24

WMUs 1A, 1B, 4A, 4B, 4D and 4E – Oct. 28-Nov. 4 WMUs 2A, 2F, 2G, 3A, 3B, 3C, 3D and 4C – Oct. 28-Nov. 11 WMUs 2C, 2D and 2E – Oct. 28-Nov. 11 and Nov. 22-24.

WMU 5B – Oct. 31-Nov. 2WMUs 5A, 5C and 5D – CLOSED TO FALL TURKEY HUNTING.

Season Limit – 1 bird per license year.

*As a reminder, no single-projectile firearms may be used in the fall turkey seasons. Hunters may use shotguns and archery gear only.

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FAQ

What weapons can you use to hunt turkey in PA?

(i) A manually operated or semiautomatic, centerfire shotgun or muzzleloading shotgun using shot ammunition no larger than # 4 lead, # 2 steel, or # 4 of any other composition or alloy of nontoxic shot approved by the Director of the Unites States Fish and Wildlife Service or an authorized representative under 50 CFR …

Can you use a semi shotgun for turkey in PA?

Currently, in Pennsylvania, we allow semi-automatic shotguns to be used for hunting small game, migratory birds, turkey and deer in special regulation areas (ammunition specific).

What is the best 22 for turkey?

22 Hornet, 222 Rem., 223 or 22/250 if you hand load and load them down some, all good for Turkey and accurate enough for head shots if possible. Have successfully taken turkeys with a 22 mag inside 100 yards. I wouldn’t be comfortable using a 22LR. I have a 22 Hornet.

Can you hunt turkey with a 22 Magnum?

The 22 mag will kill a gobbler just fine out to 50 to 75 yards if you hit it at the butt of the wing. The challenge of turkey hunting is calling the bird to with in 40 yards. NOT shooting at a bird 50-80 yards out.

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