The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission will begin the youth wild turkey hunting season on April 1 through April 7 and the statewide season on April 8 through May 6, according to a Tuesday announcement.
Hunters are limited to two turkeys for the season. Only one may be taken during the youth season.
The commission’s assistant chief of the wildlife management division, Chris Kreh, reports that in the 2022 hunting season, hunters in the state harvested 20,576 wild turkeys, 1,777 of which were taken during the youth season.
When compared to totals from prior to 2020, the total is still high even though it is lower than the record-breaking totals of the previous two years. According to Kreh, the wild turkey population in North Carolina is still robust despite recent increases in harvest and hunting pressure.
“Our agency has safeguards in place to ensure that overharvest does not occur,” Kreh said. “Compared to most states, five weeks of hunting is conservative. Hunters are only allowed to take male or bearded birds, and there is a two-bird limit. ” ”.
“The season dates offer considerable opportunity for breeding before males are harvested. Hens are able to nest and raise poults as they always do. ”.
The youth season is open to anyone under the age of 18, and all hunters between the ages of 16 and 17 are required to possess a hunting license. If an adult who is at least eighteen years old and has a license is with them, children under the age of sixteen are exempt from this requirement. Youth who have licenses or a hunter education card may hunt without adult supervision.
Someone who witnesses suspicious activity like poaching or baiting may be eligible to receive a reward of up to $1,000 if they report information that results in a conviction to the Turn-In-Poachers program. For information on eligible violations and to learn how to submit a tip, visit ncwildlife. org/WildTip.
For information about turkey hunting, including hunter safety and where to hunt, visit ncwildlife.org.
Calling all turkey hunters! Mark your calendars for the upcoming North Carolina turkey season, a time to immerse yourselves in the thrill of the hunt and witness the majesty of these magnificent birds.
Turkey Season Dates:
- Youth Season: April 6-12, 2024
- Spring Season: April 13 – May 11, 2024
Bag Limit:
- Daily limit: 1
- Possession and season limit: 2, only one of which may be taken during the youth season.
Additional Information:
- Youth Season: Hunters under 18 can participate statewide. Some Game Lands require permits.
- Spring Season: Open statewide. Some Game Lands require permits.
- Reporting: All hunters must report their harvests using a Big Game Harvest Report Card.
Where to Hunt:
- Public Lands: North Carolina boasts over 2 million acres of public hunting lands, including Game Lands, National Forests, and Wildlife Management Areas.
- Private Lands: With permission from landowners, you can hunt on private property.
Tips for a Successful Hunt:
- Scout the area: Familiarize yourself with the terrain, turkey sign, and potential hunting spots.
- Use proper camouflage: Blend in with your surroundings to avoid spooking the turkeys.
- Call effectively: Master the art of turkey calling to attract birds within range.
- Be patient: Turkeys can be elusive, so persistence is key.
- Follow all hunting regulations: Ensure a safe and ethical hunt by adhering to all state regulations.
Beyond the Hunt:
- Enjoy the outdoors: Immerse yourself in the beauty of North Carolina’s natural landscapes.
- Respect wildlife: Appreciate the role of turkeys in the ecosystem.
- Share your passion: Introduce others to the joys of turkey hunting.
Resources:
- North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission: https://www.ncwildlife.org/
- eRegulations: https://www.eregulations.com/northcarolina/hunting/turkey-seasons-regulations
Get ready to experience the thrill of the North Carolina turkey season! With careful planning, dedication, and a touch of luck, you’ll create lasting memories and contribute to the sustainable management of this iconic species.
NORTH CAROLINA Opening Day DOUBLE! (Turkey Hunting)
FAQ
What are the dates for turkey season in North Carolina?
Can you shoot 2 turkeys in one day in NC?
Do you have to tag a turkey in NC?
Can you bait turkeys in NC?