Where Can I Hunt Turkey in California? Your Guide to Finding the Best Spots

California offers excellent turkey hunting opportunities across the state. With proper preparation and knowledge of prime locations, you can have an amazing hunt. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about turkey hunting in California.

Overview of Turkey Hunting in California

Wild turkeys can be found in 49 of California’s 58 counties. The state is home to three subspecies – Rio Grande, Merriam’s, and Eastern. The highest populations exist in Northern California, especially in the coastal ranges and Sierra Nevada Mountains.

The general spring turkey season runs from late March to early May annually. Fall archery-only seasons are also offered in some zones. Hunters must have a valid hunting license and turkey tag.

Public lands offer the best access and include national forests, BLM areas, and state wildlife areas Top counties for public land turkey hunting are Butte, Calaveras, El Dorado, Mendocino, Nevada, San Luis Obispo, Shasta, Tehama and Yuba.

Best Public Lands for Turkey Hunting

Here are some of the top public land hunting areas to consider across California:

Tehama Wildlife Area

This wildlife area near Red Bluff offers excellent turkey hunting opportunities, especially in the spring season. Turkey populations are high, and access is easy. Focus efforts on the southeastern sections.

Spenceville Wildlife Area

Located in Yuba and Nevada Counties, this 9,000 acre area near Beale AFB holds a sizable wild turkey population. The oak woodlands and riparian areas provide great habitat. Arrive early for the best chance at success.

Mendocino National Forest

Check out the western sections near Covelo for fantastic Merriam’s and Rio Grande turkey hunting. Areas to focus on include Mendocino Pass, Chicken Ridge, and Anthony Peak.

Plumas National Forest

The Feather River canyon area of Plumas NF is worth exploring for turkey hunting. Look for birds near Storrie and Philbrook Reservoirs. Access Forest Service roads for areas away from crowds.

Shasta-Trinity National Forest

Sections near Whiskeytown Lake and Shasta Lake offer good hunting, especially along Backbone Ridge. Listen for early morning gobbles to pinpoint active birds. A turkey call can elicit responses.

Lassen National Forest

The national forest land surrounding Lake Almanor provides habitat for a growing Merriam’s turkey population. Cruise forest roads looking for flocks.

Los Padres National Forest

The lower elevation oak woodlands in this coastal national forest hold decent numbers of Rio Grande turkeys. Try areas near Nacimiento Road.

Best Times and Techniques

Spring hunting during the March-April mating season provides your best opportunity. Set up near a gobbler’s roost site at dawn and call aggressively with hen yelps and clucks to entice one in.

In fall, sneak into flocks’ feeding areas at dawn and dusk and sit quietly. Scan ahead regularly and be ready when a shot opportunity arises. Avoid calling in the fall.

Focus on oak woodlands in spring and agricultural areas in fall near evening roost sites. Carrybinoculars and remain still to avoid spooking entire flocks.

What You Need

• License – A hunting license and tag are required. Purchase online or from license agents.

• Weapon – Shotguns or archery equipment are legal. Choose a 12 or 20 gauge shotgun with #4-6 shot or archery gear suited for turkeys.

• Calls and decoys– Try slate, box, or mouth calls that mimic hen sounds. Set up a hen decoy for added realism.

• Camo – Wear camo clothing in earth tone colors from head to toe. Facemasks and gloves help conceal movement.

• Blinds – Use a camo hunting blind or natural vegetation to conceal yourself. Avoid silhouetting yourself on ridges.

Safety Tips

• Avoid wearing red, white, blue or black clothing. Stick to camo.

• Let others know where you will be hunting and when to expect your return.

• Watch your backdrop when raising a firearm or drawing a bow. Ensure it is clear of obstructions.

• Use a buddy system if hunting with others. Keep each other informed.

• Properly identify your target before shooting. Avoid “sound shots” at noises.

Don’t Wait – Start Scouting!

As you can see, California offers tremendous turkey hunting on public lands for both beginners and seasoned hunters. With the right preparation and scouting, you can have an exciting hunt this spring. Grab your calls and topo map and start exploring new territory today! Let us know how your turkey hunt goes in the comments.