When Does Turkey Season Start in Virginia? A Guide to Spring & Fall Hunting

For turkey hunters in Virginia, spring and fall seasons offer excellent opportunities to pursue these vocal, challenging birds. But when exactly do the different turkey seasons open across the state? This in-depth guide covers key dates and info to plan your hunt

Overview of Turkey Seasons in Virginia

There are two main turkey hunting seasons in Virginia

• Spring turkey season – The most popular season running April through May. Bearded birds only.

• Fall turkey season – A shorter season in October/November in certain counties and cities. Either sex allowed.

Exact opening and closing dates vary each year, so check the Virginia hunting regulations for the current info.

When Does Spring Turkey Season Start?

The highly anticipated spring gobbler season is open statewide and runs for 6 weeks:

• Opening day – Season kicks off in mid April. In 2023, it opens April 13th.

• First segment – April 13-28 – Hunting only until noon daily.

• Second segment – April 29 – May 18 – Open until sunset each day.

• Youth weekend – The weekend before opening day is for youth hunters only.

• Closing day – In 2023, the last day is May 18.

• Bag limit – Hunters can harvest 1 bearded turkey per day, with a maximum of 3 per spring season.

Fall Turkey Hunting Season Dates

In contrast to the spring, fall turkey seasons in Virginia are more complex:

• County variations – Fall seasons are open only in certain counties/cities. Season lengths vary.

• Segments – Fall is split into multiple short segments vs one long season.

• Either sex – Both hens and toms can be harvested in the fall.

• Youth weekend – There is a 2 day youth-only weekend prior to the main fall opener.

Refer to the hunting regulations for which counties have open segments and season dates for each area.

Virginia Turkey Tagging & Checking Requirements

Hunters must follow turkey tagging and checking procedures:

• Tagging – Immediately upon harvest, complete a game check card and tag the turkey.

• Checking – Check in the turkey by phone, online, or mobile app within 24 hours of kill.

• Confirmation number – Keep the game check confirmation number to verify the turkey was legally checked.

• Shopping – Turkeys cannot be transported or processed until properly checked first.

Proper tagging and timely checking are mandatory.

Tips for Hunting Wild Turkeys in Virginia

Some key tips and tactics for successful spring and fall turkey hunting:

• Scouting – Locate flocks and roost sites before opening day. Listen for gobbles at dawn.

• Camouflage – Conceal movement with camo clothes and facemasks. Avoid white and blue.

• Decoys – Set up hen decoys to draw in gobblers looking to breed. Avoid jake decoys in spring.

• Blinds – Use ground blinds near food sources. Brush-in natural blinds overlooking fields.

• Calling – Master slate, box, and mouth calls to mimic hens and excite gobblers.

• Patience – It takes skill to call in and outwit these wary birds. Stay alert andpersistent.

• Scout public land – Success is possible on public land if you do your homework.

Spring vs. Fall Seasons in Virginia

While both spring and fall offer great turkey hunting, there are some key differences:

• Spring allows only bearded birds, while fall permits either sex.

• Gobblers respond aggressively to calling during the spring breeding season.

• In fall, flocks don’t break up and require different tactics.

• The longer spring season timing makes hunting conditions more favorable.

• The challenge of calling in lovesick spring gobblers is more exciting for most hunters.

License Requirements for Turkey Hunting

All turkey hunters in Virginia need the proper licenses:

• Virginia residents need a basic hunting license plus a turkey license.

• Non-residents need a non-resident basic license plus turkey license.

• Wildlife management area permit also required on some public lands.

• Additional licenses needed for youth under 16.

Licenses can be purchased online at the DWR website or from license agents.

For rewarding turkey hunting amidst breathtaking scenery, Virginia offers fantastic spring and fall seasons across the state. The spring season starts in mid-April and runs 6 weeks, with bearded birds only. Fall seasons are segmented and vary by county, with fewer restrictions. Check regulations carefully each year and follow tagging and checking rules. With preparation and persistence, hunters can enjoy the experience of calling in these vocal and cagey adversaries.