Turkey hunts last two days. They can be heard gobbling as they approach, and then they suddenly materialize in front of you! It is very similar to elk running into your calls, so if you have never experienced the rush of a big Tom gobbler running into your calling, you are missing out! Using double bull blinds and following abandoned logging roads to find targets and then pursue them are the two main hunting techniques. There will be some field hunting and some steep terrain. We are able to accommodate to any type of hunter. Mostly hunting the Merriam’s with a few Rio’s and every once in a while an Eastern turkey. Season starts mid April and runs thru May. The thrill of a gobbler calling 20 yards away is hard to beat. The Okanogan turkey population is strong and expanding, in part because of the National Wild Turkey Federation and many landowners who share their dedication to conservation. You’ll enjoy setting up decoys beneath roosting birds at o’dark thirty and watching the birds as they soar into your spread and call. Like we said, it’s hard to beat.
**Deposit/Terms/Sales Tax – All hunts require a non-refundable deposit; the remaining amount is due thirty days prior to the hunt. **All seasons are approximate and based on previous seasons. **ALL PRICES ARE PLUS 8. 4% SALES TAX**.
A unique and thrilling experience for outdoor enthusiasts is spring turkey season in Washington, with its crisp air, vibrant green forest, and thrilling hunt. This guide will give you all the important information you need to plan a successful turkey hunt, regardless of your level of experience.
Wild Turkey Seasons in Washington
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) manages the state’s wild turkey population and sets the hunting seasons accordingly Here’s a breakdown of the 2024 spring turkey season:
General Season:
- Dates: April 15 – May 31, 2024
- Hunting Hours: One-half hour before sunrise to sunset
- Bag Limit: Three (3) turkeys per day, with specific restrictions based on Game Management Units (GMUs)
Additional Turkey Tags:
- Available for purchase at any time
- Allow for harvesting up to three turkeys in one day in designated areas
GMU-Specific Restrictions:
- Consult the WDFW website or the 2023 Spring Season Wild Turkey Hunting Regulation Pamphlet for detailed information on bag limits and restrictions for specific GMUs.
Youth Turkey Hunt:
- Dates: April 1-7, 2024
- Hunting Hours: One-half hour before sunrise to sunset
- Bag Limit: One (1) turkey per day, with specific restrictions based on GMUs
- Eligibility: Open to youth hunters aged 17 and under
Essential Gear and Regulations:
- License: A valid small game license and a turkey transport tag are required.
- Weapon: Legal options include shotguns with #4 or smaller shot, crossbows, bows and arrows, and certain handguns.
- Hunting Report: Hunters must submit a hunting activity report for each turkey transport tag purchased.
- Evidence of Sex: It is illegal to possess or transport a wild turkey without the fully feathered head and beard (if present) attached until the carcass is processed.
- Restrictions: Using dogs, electronic calls, electronic decoys, or baiting methods is prohibited.
Planning Your Turkey Hunt:
- Research: Familiarize yourself with the regulations, bag limits, and GMU restrictions before heading out.
- Scouting: Locate areas with turkey sign, such as tracks, droppings, and feathers.
- Gear Up: Ensure you have the necessary license, tags, weapon, and appropriate clothing for the weather conditions.
- Practice: Hone your shooting skills and calling techniques before the season starts.
- Respect the Resource: Follow ethical hunting practices and leave the environment undisturbed.
Additional Resources:
- WDFW Wild Turkey Hunting Regulations: https://wdfw.wa.gov/hunting/regulations/game-birds/wild-turkey
- 2023 Spring Season Wild Turkey Hunting Regulation Pamphlet: https://wdfw.wa.gov/publications/02412
- WDFW Hunting Seasons and Regulations: https://wdfw.wa.gov/hunting/regulations
- WDFW Game Management Units (GMUs): https://wdfw.wa.gov/hunting/locations/gmu
With careful planning, preparation, and adherence to regulations, you can have a successful and rewarding wild turkey hunting experience in Washington. Remember to prioritize safety, respect the resource, and enjoy the thrill of the chase!
Public Land Spring Turkey, Washington State Mountain Bird 2022
When is spring turkey season in Washington State?
Washington’s spring turkey season begins with a special early season for youth hunters. Youth license holders can hunt during a special youth-only spring turkey season on April 3-4, 2021. The youth season is open statewide and youth hunters must be accompanied by an adult 18 years or older.
Are there turkeys in Washington State?
Most Washington turkeys occur in the eastern part of the state, though limited turkey populations can be found west of the Cascades as well. Washington’s spring turkey season begins with a special early season for youth hunters. Youth license holders can hunt during a special youth-only spring turkey season on April 3-4, 2021.
How many turkeys are killed a year in Western Washington?
One turkey may be killed per year in Western Washington outside of Klickitat County. Two turkeys may be killed in Klickitat County. Hunting hours are one-half hour before sunrise to sunset during spring seasons.
Is spring turkey hunting open statewide?
Spring turkey hunting is open statewide except for areas closed to bird hunting. See the Big Game Regulations for more information on hunting closures. This pamphlet is a summary of the hunting regulations and seasons (chapters 220-400 through 220-416 of the Washington Administrative Code) adopted by the Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission.