Wild turkeys are not native to Oregon. But since their introduction in 1961 and the opening of the first turkey hunting season in 1987, the number of opportunities for turkey hunting has more than doubled. As a result, wild turkeys are an excellent place to start if you want to go hunting in Oregon.
At first glance, the Oregon Game Bird Regulations can seem intimidating. However, the regulations and open seasons for turkey are some of the simplest an easiest to understand.
If your shotgun has the right choke and shotgun shell, you should be able to hunt wild turkeys with it.
Turkey hunting with a bow is a different animal, so to speak, than hunting with a shotgun.
To hunt turkey, you don’t need a lot of gear, but there are a few things that will make your hunt more comfortable and successful.
By sighting in and becoming familiar with your gun’s pattern, you can ensure that your gun, shell, and choke are all operating as they should.
In the fall, hunters fill their turkey tags by studying food sources and the daily routine of birds.
Calling in a tom turkey is one of the most thrilling moments of a turkey hunt.
Take your time when you approach your downed turkey, and be ready to shoot it again if it is only slightly wounded.
Wild turkeys are not native to Oregon. But since their introduction in 1961 and the opening of the first turkey hunting season in 1987, the number of opportunities for turkey hunting has more than doubled. As a result, wild turkeys are an excellent place to start if you want to go hunting in Oregon.
At first glance, the Oregon Game Bird Regulations can seem intimidating. However, the regulations and open seasons for turkey are some of the simplest an easiest to understand.
If your shotgun has the right choke and shotgun shell, you should be able to hunt wild turkeys with it.
Turkey hunting with a bow is a different animal, so to speak, than hunting with a shotgun.
To hunt turkey, you don’t need a lot of gear, but there are a few things that will make your hunt more comfortable and successful.
By sighting in and becoming familiar with your gun’s pattern, you can ensure that your gun, shell, and choke are all operating as they should.
In the fall, hunters fill their turkey tags by studying food sources and the daily routine of birds.
Calling in a tom turkey is one of the most thrilling moments of a turkey hunt.
Take your time when you approach your downed turkey, and be ready to shoot it again if it is only slightly wounded.
Hey there, fellow turkey hunters! Are you itching to get out there and bag a gobbler this year? If you’re in Oregon, you’re in luck! Wild turkeys are plentiful in the state, and there are generous hunting seasons in both spring and fall.
But when exactly is turkey season in Oregon? Let’s dive into the details and get you ready for some exciting turkey hunting action!
Spring Turkey Season:
- Dates: Mid-April to late May (around 6 weeks)
- Bag Limit: 1 male turkey per day, 3 males per year
- Tags: Unlimited number available
- Where to Hunt: Statewide
Fall Turkey Season:
- Dates: Mid-October to late January (10 weeks)
- Bag Limit: 1 turkey of either sex per day, 1-2 per season (depending on the county)
- Tags: Unlimited number available
- Where to Hunt: Statewide
Additional Resources:
- Oregon Game Bird Regulations: This booklet provides detailed information on turkey hunting regulations, including seasons, bag limits, and tagging requirements. You can find it at most license sales vendors and ODFW offices.
- Turkey Hunting Forecast: This annual report provides a district-by-district look at turkey populations and the outlook for the upcoming season. It also includes helpful information about the kind of habitat in which to find birds. You can find it on the ODFW website MyODFW.com.
- Recreation Report: This online report offers seasonal updates as the hunting season progresses. You can find it on the ODFW website MyODFW.com.
- Workshops: ODFW offers wild turkey hunting workshops for both youth and adults. These workshops cover all the basics of turkey hunting in Oregon, including hunting seasons, hunting gear, tips for bow and shotgun hunting, turkey behavior, calling turkeys, and more. Check the Workshop and Events page on MyODFW.com in early spring to learn more and register.
Pro Tip:
- Spring is prime turkey hunting season. This is breeding season, and successful hunters often set up in a well-camouflaged location and try to call a male turkey into shooting range. To see a male turkey, also called a gobbler, come strutting and gobbling into range is a heart-stopping moment for any turkey hunter.
- Oregon also has an extended fall turkey hunting season, giving you the chance to harvest your own Thanksgiving bird!
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your gear, head out to the beautiful Oregon outdoors, and enjoy some thrilling turkey hunting!
Here are some additional tips to help you have a successful turkey hunt:
- Scouting: Spend some time scouting the area where you plan to hunt. Look for signs of turkeys, such as tracks, droppings, and feathers.
- Calling: Turkeys are vocal birds, and they can be called in using a variety of calls. Learn how to use a turkey call effectively, and practice calling before you go hunting.
- Camouflage: Turkeys have excellent eyesight, so it’s important to camouflage yourself well. Wear camouflage clothing, and use natural materials to create a blind.
- Patience: Turkey hunting requires patience. Be prepared to sit still and wait for a turkey to come into range.
Remember, always follow all safety rules and regulations when hunting. Happy hunting!
P.S. Don’t forget to report your turkey harvest online at huntfishoregon.com.
Sign up for a workshop
Each spring, ODFW offers wild turkey hunting workshops for both youth and adults. These workshops cover the basics of Oregon turkey hunting, including calling turkeys, shotgun and bow shooting techniques, hunting seasons, and more.
Check the Workshop and Events page on MyODFW.com in early spring to learn more and register.
Where to hunt wild turkey
In western Oregon, most turkeys are found on private land; they have moved there to find better food sources and to avoid hunters and predators. One of the biggest populations of turkeys in the country can be found in Southwest Oregon, primarily on public National Forest land.
Eastern Oregon is seeing an increase in the number of turkeys, and many areas, including the White River region and the northeastern Blue Mountains of Oregon, offer excellent hunting.
INSANE TURKEY HUNT!! | DRIVING ACROSS the USA for an Oregon GOBBLER | 2023 Turkey Journal
FAQ
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