Every state boasts a unique combination of hunting opportunities. Even though some species can be met in every state, there are those scattered in a seemingly random pattern across the country. Alabama abounds in game species, so hunting is a year-round activity. But even though the hunt seems to never stop, each species has a dedicated season. Outdoor Alabama has a comprehensive list of all Seasons and Bag Limits for the game species, so we’ve just made a compendium for the most popular game species.
Alabama’s turkey hunting season is a cherished tradition for hunters across the state. With three hunting zones offering varying season dates, it can get confusing determining when you can legally hunt turkeys in Alabama This article will breakdown when turkey season starts in each zone, rules and limits, and tips for a successful hunt
Overview of Alabama Turkey Season Dates
Alabama divides the state into three turkey hunting zones, with each zone getting its own start and end dates:
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Zone 1 Covers central and south Alabama Season runs March 25 – May 8.
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Zone 2 Covers northwest Alabama Season runs April 1 – May 8,
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Zone 3: Covers northeast Alabama. Season runs March 25 – May 8.
As you can see, most areas of Alabama (Zones 1 and 3) will begin their hunts March 25 and conclude May 8. Hunters in Zone 2 (northwest Alabama) will have to wait until April 1 to begin hunting.
Within each zone, there are also special youth and disabled hunter days that take place 1-2 weeks before the main season opens. So Youth and disabled hunters get a head start on chasing spring gobblers!
Bag Limits and Legal Hunting Methods
Alabama enforces a strict 4 gobbler total bag limit for the combined spring and fall turkey seasons. This breaks down as:
- 1 gobbler per day
- No more than 2 gobblers total from any WMA, National Forest land, or other public hunting area
- No more than 1 gobbler during the first 10 days on WMAs or public land
Hunters are restricted to using shotguns or archery equipment to harvest turkeys. All shotguns must be plugged to hold no more than 3 shells total.
Using live decoys is prohibited in the fall turkey season but allowed during specified dates in the spring season. Be sure to consult the regulations for your hunting zone.
Tips for Hunting Alabama Turkeys
Here are some tips from experienced Alabama turkey hunters on strategies for bagging a spring gobbler:
Scout ahead of season – Locate active roosting areas, strutting zones, and feeding areas. Look for scratchings, tracks, feathers, and droppings. Having a few prime spots mapped out will set you up for opening day success.
Use turkey calls effectively – Master a slate, box, and mouth calls. Use owl hoots and crow calls before daylight to shock gobblers into sounding off. Mimic hen yelps, clucks, and purrs once on the roost. Call aggressively but also be patient.
Set up near strut zones – Try to intercept gobblers as they strut and look for hens in openings near daytime roosts. Sit quietly against a tree in camo and call to pull them in.
Conceal movement – Never spook a turkey with excess movement. Sit still for long periods. Wave a fan or swat flies to mask minor motions. Remain patient and let the gobbler commit before taking a shot.
Stay downwind – A turkey’s nose is exceptional. Keep the wind in your face. Use cover scent bottles and sprays to mask human odors. Never approach one from downwind.
Use a decoy properly – Place your decoy where it is visible but off to one side. This allows you to stay hidden but gives the gobbler a focal point. Never aggressively wave or jerk your decoy.
Following these tips, scouting before the season, and studying your hunting zone regulations will set you up for success when Alabama’s turkey season opens on March 25th. Believe me, there’s no better feeling than having a fired-up gobbler respond to your calls and come strutting into range!
Seasons by Game Species
Deer is hands down the nation’s most beloved game species. You can hunt bucks in every single state and there is a plethora of ways for you to do so. Regular firearms, muzzleloaders, bows and arrows – deer hunting can take on many forms. Alabama has an ample deer population and now is just the time for deer hunters to unholster their weaponry and get down to stalking.
As you can see from the map, Alabama is split into five hunting zones – A, B, C, D, and E. There is also the Chronic Wasting Disease Management zone that was established after the first positive Chronic Wasting Disease test. You can still hunt in the area, it’s just that there are some extra precautions and rules you should follow. In all other respects, the rules are as usual. In each zone, there are different hunting periods for different types of hunting.
Special Muzzleloader and Air Rifle
The muzzleloader and air rifle season also concluded some two weeks ago. If you want to make it next year, look forward to the following dates. October 30 through November 3 for Zones D and E, and November 13 through November 17 for Zones A, B, and C.
2023 TURKEY SEASON IS HERE | Alabama Opening Weekend
FAQ
When can you hunt turkeys in Alabama?
How many shells can you have in your gun for turkey hunting in Alabama?
What is the first day of hunting season in Alabama?
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Zone
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Archery-Stalk Hunting
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Gun / Dog Deer Hunting
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E
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Sep 30, 2023 – Jan 15, 2024 (Either Sex), Jan 16 – 27, 2024 (Antlered Bucks Only)
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Nov 4, 2023 – Jan 1, 2024 (Either Sex)
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CMZ
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Oct 14, 2023 – Feb 10, 2024
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Nov 18, 2023 – Jan 15, 2024
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What counties in Alabama have a fall turkey season?
Does Alabama have a turkey season?
In Alabama, there are two turkey seasons in some areas: spring and fall. However, the spring season is when the vast majority of turkeys are taken, and the fall season is only available in some areas. Luckily, the spring season is very long – one of the longest in the country. Mostly, Alabama is divided into three zones.
When is Alabama turkey season 2024?
Alabama Turkey Season 2024: Everything You Need TO Know! Alabama Turkey Season 2024: Everything You Need TO Know! From April to May, hunters eagerly await the chance to engage in this beloved activity. Regardless of your skill level, it’s essential to be well-prepared as the excitement grows.
What are Alabama’s hunting rules?
To maximize their hunting experience, hunters must use proper gear and avoid activities within 200 yards of residential areas to comply with Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources rules. Hunters should also know of the Chronic Wasting Disease Management Zone, which bans hunting. ST. CLAIR
Why do turkey populations fluctuate each year?
Mark Smith, an Alabama Cooperative Extension System professor of forestry and wildlife sciences, said turkey populations can fluctuate each year because of several reasons. “Poor hatches during previous years, weather and changes in habitat on or surrounding the hunting property are some of the causes of population change,” Smith said.