Update: The Spring Turkey Application period is closed, but bonus authorizations may be purchased depending on availability, by zone and season. Details for these are at the end of the article. You can track the Wisconsin Spring Turkey Application and other key dates in the OnPoint App. Start tracking today with your first 5 applications free!
Wisconsin offers tremendous turkey hunting opportunities to sportsmen, both in quality and quantity. Both spring and fall hunting seasons are available, with the spring being the most sought after. Residents and nonresidents acquire tags in the same method, which is through the Wisconsin Spring Turkey Application. Below we’ll cover how the application works, including the Wisconsin turkey zones, available seasons, and other important information.
Turkey hunting is a popular sport in Wisconsin, with thousands of hunters eagerly awaiting opening day each spring If you’re planning your first turkey hunt or are a seasoned veteran, it’s important to know the season dates and hunting regulations Here’s a comprehensive guide on when turkey season starts in Wisconsin and everything you need to know for a safe and successful hunt.
Overview of Turkey Season Dates in Wisconsin
The 2024 spring turkey season in Wisconsin will run from April 17 through May 28 The season includes six separate seven-day hunting periods running from Wednesday through the following Tuesday Here are the dates for the 2024 spring turkey hunting periods in Wisconsin
- Period A: April 17-23
- Period B: April 24-30
- Period C: May 1-7
- Period D: May 8-14
- Period E: May 15-21
- Period F: May 22-28
There is also a special youth turkey hunting weekend that takes place prior to the regular season. For 2024 the youth hunt will be held on April 12-13. This gives young hunters a chance to go out before the more experienced adults.
The fall turkey season runs from late September through much of November in 2024. Season dates vary by turkey management zone, so be sure to consult the DNR for specific open seasons in your desired zone.
How to Get a Turkey Harvest Permit in Wisconsin
In order to hunt wild turkeys in Wisconsin, you’ll need to purchase a turkey harvest permit along with a turkey hunting license and stamp. Here’s how the permit process works:
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For the spring turkey season, permits are issued through a preference point drawing system. Hunters must apply by December 10 each year for the following spring season. Apply through Go Wild or DNR service centers.
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If you are not awarded a permit in the drawing, leftover “bonus” permits typically go on sale in March on a first-come, first-served basis.
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For the fall turkey season, one permit comes with each fall turkey license at no extra cost. You select the desired zone when purchasing your license.
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Bonus fall turkey permits also go on sale in August if quotas allow for additional permits.
No matter what, be sure you have your turkey harvest permit, stamp, and license in hand before going out to hunt. Carry paper copies or electronic versions on your phone.
Turkey Hunting Rules and Regulations
When hunting wild turkeys in Wisconsin, you must follow all hunting regulations and rules. Here are some key laws to keep in mind:
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Shooting hours – Hunters must know the legal shooting hours based on time of year and location in the state (north or south). Consult DNR guides for exact hours.
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Bag limits – One bearded or male turkey in the spring, one turkey of either sex in the fall. Follow one-per-day permit rules.
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Tagging – Turkeys must be electronically registered by 5pm the day after harvest. Keep your permit handy.
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Zone regulations – Hunt only in the zone specified on your permit.
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Hunter orange – Required when moving between sites. Helps other hunters identify you.
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Special opportunities exist for youth, disabled hunters, and tribal members. Consult the DNR.
Be sure to thoroughly review the DNR turkey hunting regulations guide before your hunt. Know the laws and follow them closely.
Tips for Hunting Wild Turkeys in Wisconsin
With the right techniques and tactics, you can have an exciting and rewarding turkey hunt in Wisconsin:
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Scout ahead of time – Locate where turkeys are roosting and feeding to set up properly.
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Use calls cautiously – Calls can attract other hunters. Avoid sounding like a turkey.
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Set up safely – Sit against a wide tree with good visibility and a clear shooting lane.
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Camouflage fully – Cover skin and gear to avoid detection. Don’t move suddenly.
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Be patient – May take hours for a gobbler to finally approach within range.
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Stay alert – Keep eyes peeled and ears open. Scan constantly for approaching birds.
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Consider public land – Many wildlife and state forest areas provide turkey hunting opportunities.
With careful preparation and execution, the spring turkey season provides a fun hunting experience for both novice and expert hunters. As opening day nears, be sure to get your permit secured, review regulations, scout hunting spots, and pattern local birds. Follow safe and ethical shooting practices when the day arrives. Doing so will lead to continued turkey hunting opportunities and enjoyment of this special wild game bird.
When is the Wisconsin Spring Turkey Application?
The Wisconsin Spring Turkey Application deadline is the same each year, with applications due no later than December 10th. To receive reminders for this application or others, add it to your OnPoint Account via the web, Apple, or Android app. If you miss the spring turkey deadline, you can still get a tag when leftover tags go for sale, detailed below.December 10th, 11:59PM CTWisconsin Spring Turkey Draw Deadline0000Days00Hours00Minutes00Seconds
Wisconsin is divided into seven turkey hunting zones. Tags are specific to an individual hunting zone. Below is the Wisconsin turkey hunting zone map.
Wisconsin Turkey Season Dates
The Wisconsin Spring Turkey hunting season is divided into six individual periods, each one week in length. Turkey tags are valid only for a specific period within the season. The first period typically opens in mid-April, and the final period usually ends in late-May. Each period is one week in length, beginning on a Wednesday and ending the following Tuesday. Below is a table of the 2024 Wisconsin Spring Turkey Seasons.
| Period | Dates |
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| Youth Hunt | April 13-14 |
| Period A | April 17–23 |
| Period B | April 24–30 |
| Period C | May 1–7 |
| Period D | May 8–14 |
| Period E | May 15–21 |
| Period F | May 22–28 |
Turkey Hunting Wisconsin “First Season”
FAQ
What are the dates for turkey season in Wisconsin?
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2024 Seasons
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Spring 2024
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Period F
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May 22 – 28
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Fall 2024
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Zones 1 – 5
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Nov. 23 – Jan. 5, 2025
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Statewide
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Sept. 14 – Nov. 22
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What is the bag limit for turkeys in Wisconsin?
How early should you start turkey hunting?
What is the turkey hunting capital of Wisconsin?
Where can I Hunt a Turkey in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin offers millions of acres of public land, with much of it open to turkey hunting. Find public lands open for hunting near you on the DNR’s Public Access Lands webpage. Spring turkey hunting is allowed in select state parks during the two-day youth hunt and the first two periods of the regular season.
Do you need a license to hunt a Turkey in Wisconsin?
Hunters must carry their spring turkey license, wild turkey stamp and valid harvest authorization while hunting, and they are encouraged to review the turkey hunting regulations before the season. Turkey harvest registration is mandatory and remains a critical component of turkey management in Wisconsin.
When are Turkey harvest allocations available in Wisconsin?
Each year, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) determines the number of turkey harvest allocations, or tags, that will be available in each zone. Spring turkey harvest allocations are first available through a draw, and then often become available over-the-counter (OTC) beginning mid-March.
When is the 2024 spring turkey season?
The 2024 spring turkey season will run from April 17 through May 28 and includes six, seven-day periods running Wednesday through the following Tuesday. All seven turkey management zones will be open for hunting. The 2024 spring turkey season dates are as follows: