Hey there, fellow turkey hunters! Are you itching to get out there and bag yourself a delicious gobbler? Well, look no further! This guide will equip you with all the essential information you need to navigate the Oklahoma turkey hunting season like a pro.
Spring Turkey Season: Your Prime Time for Gobblers
The Oklahoma spring turkey season is the crown jewel for many hunters, offering the chance to experience the thrill of calling in a majestic tom. This season runs from April 16th to May 16th, 2024, giving you ample time to stalk your feathered prey.
Here’s what you need to know about the spring turkey season:
- Bag Limit: One (1) tom turkey statewide. Remember, harvesting non-bearded turkeys is a no-no.
- Youth Season: Young hunters get a head start with the Youth Spring Turkey Season on April 13th and 14th, 2024. This is a great opportunity for youngsters to hone their hunting skills and maybe even score their first gobbler.
- Legal Means of Taking: You have two options: archery equipment (as per Big Game Regulations) or shotguns loaded with shot no larger than BB (.180 of an inch in diameter). Rifles and handguns are a no-go during the spring season.
Fall Turkey Season: Extending Your Hunting Fun
If you can’t get enough of turkey hunting, the Fall Turkey Season runs from October 1st, 2024 to January 15th 2025. This extended season allows you to pursue those cunning turkeys using archery equipment.
Remember:
- Bag Limit: One (1) turkey statewide, regardless of sex or method of take.
- Youth Season: Yep, the youngsters get another chance to shine during the Youth Fall Turkey Season, also running from October 1st, 2024, to January 15th, 2025.
Spring Turkey License Requirements: Don’t Get Caught Unprepared
Before you head out to chase those gobblers, make sure you’ve got the proper licenses. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Residents: You’ll need a resident hunting license and a spring turkey license (unless you’re exempt from either).
- Nonresidents: Nonresident hunters require a nonresident hunting license and a spring turkey license (again, exemptions may apply).
Important Note: The nonresident 5-day hunting license doesn’t cover turkey hunting,
Spring Turkey Hunting: Gearing Up for Success
Now that you’ve got the season dates and licenses sorted, let’s talk gear! Here are some essentials to ensure a successful turkey hunt:
- Camouflage: Blend in with the surroundings using effective camouflage clothing.
- Decoys: Lure those gobblers in with realistic turkey decoys.
- Calls: Master the art of turkey calling to attract your target.
- Shotgun or Archery Equipment: Choose your weapon wisely based on your preferred hunting style and the season regulations.
- Safety Gear: Always prioritize safety with blaze orange clothing and other essential safety equipment.
Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation: Your Hunting Resource Hub
The Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation (ODWC) is your go-to source for all things related to turkey hunting in the state. Their website (www.wildlifedepartment.com) provides comprehensive information on:
- Hunting Regulations: Stay updated on the latest regulations and bag limits.
- Hunting Seasons: Get the exact dates for each turkey season.
- Hunting Licenses: Purchase your licenses online or find a vendor near you.
- Hunting Locations: Discover public hunting areas and other potential spots to pursue your turkey.
- Hunter Education: Enhance your hunting skills and knowledge through educational resources.
With the right knowledge, preparation, and a dash of luck, you’re well on your way to a successful turkey hunting season in Oklahoma. Remember to prioritize safety, respect wildlife, and follow all regulations. Now get out there and enjoy the thrill of the hunt!
Youth Spring Turkey Information
17 years old and younger. All youth hunters must be accompanied by an adult 18 years of age or older. The adult may not hunt or possess any archery equipment or firearms.
- Residents under 16: Not required to have a hunting license, but must have a turkey license or documentation of exemption
- 16 and 17-year-old residents: A hunting license is required (see Licenses ).
- Young nonresident adults under 14: Not required to have a hunting license, but must have a turkey license or documentation of exemption
- Youth nonresidents (ages 14 to 17): Unless otherwise exempt, must have a nonresident annual hunting license and a turkey license for each bird to be hunted.
- Holders of nonresident lifetime licenses: Need to get a nonresident annual license for hunting and/or turkey hunting.
The nonresident 5-day hunting license is not valid for hunting turkey.
One tom turkey statewide regardless of method of take.
The regular spring turkey season limit of one turkey is increased by a turkey taken during the youth spring season.
Legal Means of Taking
- Archery: Equipment described as legal for big game. See Big Game Regulations.
- Shotgun: Muzzleloading or conventional, with no shot bigger than BB ( 180 of an inch in diameter) are legal.
- Illegal Firearms: During the spring, it is not permitted to use handguns or rifles.
One tom turkey statewide regardless of method of take.
The regular spring turkey season limit of one turkey is increased by a turkey taken during the youth spring season.
Opening Morning Turkey Hunting on Oklahoma Public Land Pt. 1
FAQ
When can you hunt turkeys in Oklahoma?
How much is a turkey tag in Oklahoma?
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Resident Hunting License Costs
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License / Permit
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Cost
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Resident Antelope
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$51
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Resident Bear
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$101
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Turkey (spring or fall)
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$10
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Where is the best turkey hunting in Oklahoma?
Do I need a deer tag to hunt on my own property in Oklahoma?