When is Fall Turkey Season in Pennsylvania?

Fall turkey season in Pennsylvania offers hunters the chance to pursue wild turkeys during the autumn months Unlike the more popular spring turkey season, the fall season allows for the harvest of either male or female birds Fall turkey hunting comes with its own unique challenges and rewards. Here is a guide covering everything you need to know about the fall turkey season dates, regulations, tips, and more in Pennsylvania.

Overview of Fall Turkey Season in PA

The Pennsylvania Game Commission regulates a statewide fall turkey season that generally runs from late October through mid-November. The season dates can vary by Wildlife Management Unit (WMU), but most areas are open for 2-3 weeks.

Only shotguns and archery tackle can be used to hunt turkeys in the fall season. The use of rifles, handguns, and muzzleloaders is prohibited. The fall turkey limit is one bird of either sex per hunter for the entire season.

Some key facts about the fall turkey season in Pennsylvania

• Season typically opens in late October and runs 2-3 weeks depending on WMU.
• Shotguns, bows, crossbows only – no rifles allowed.
• Bag limit – One turkey total, either sex.
• Hunting hours – Half hour before sunrise to sunset.
• Fall turkey permits are not required. General hunting license covers fall turkey.

Fall Turkey Season Dates for 2023

Here are the fall turkey season dates for 2023 by WMU in Pennsylvania:

• WMUs 1A, 1B, 2B, 4A, 4B, 4D, 4E – Oct. 28 – Nov. 17
• WMU 2A – Oct. 28 – Nov. 1
• WMU 2D – Oct. 28 – Nov. 10
• WMU 2C – Oct. 28 – Nov. 17 and Nov. 22-24
• WMUs 2E, 2F, 2G, 2H- Oct. 28 – Nov. 4
• WMU 3A – Oct. 28 – Nov. 4
• WMUs 3B, 3C, 3D – Oct. 28 – Nov. 10
• WMU 5A – Closed to fall turkey hunting
• WMU 5B – Oct. 28 – Nov. 3
• WMU 5C, 5D – Oct. 28 – Nov. 17 and Nov. 22-24

As you can see, the season runs around 3 weeks in most WMUs but is slightly shorter in some areas. Be sure to check the season dates for your local WMU before heading out.

Fall Turkey Hunting Regulations

Here are some key regulations Pennsylvania hunters need to follow for the fall turkey season:

• Only shotguns and archery equipment are permitted. Rifles, handguns, and muzzleloaders are prohibited for fall turkeys.
• Legal hunting hours are half hour before sunrise to sunset.
• The bag limit is one turkey total for the entire fall season, either sex.
• Fall turkey permits are not required. A general hunting license covers fall turkeys.
• Turkeys must be tagged immediately upon harvest and reported within 10 days.
• Fluorescent orange requirements do not apply to fall turkey hunting. Camo is recommended.
• Turkey decoys and calls are legal methods of take.

Some additional rules such as wearing orange during firearms deer seasons may apply in certain locations. Read the full fall turkey hunting regulations for your WMU before the season.

Tips for Hunting Fall Turkeys in PA

Hunting turkeys in the fall can be a bit different than the spring season. Here are some tips to help you tag a fall bird in Pennsylvania:

• Scout early. Start scouting 4-6 weeks before the opener. Locate flocks in food sources.

• Focus on food. Turkeys will be flocked up and feeding in agricultural fields in the fall. Find acorns as well.

• Use hen calls. Hens gather poults in fall. Hen yelps and clucks work better than gobblers.

• Try decoys. Place hen and young turkey decoys to bring in curious flocks.

• Sit all day. Be patient and sit in one area instead of roaming around.

• Camouflage up. Concealment is critical. Sit against tree trunks and use a blind.

• Be ready to take shots. Birds hang up less than spring, so be ready for close fast action.

Following these tips will help you have success during Pennsylvania’s fall turkey season. Do your scouting, be patient, and hunt food sources to tag your fall bird.

Fall Turkey Hunting Opportunities

Pennsylvania has an estimated fall turkey population over 200,000 birds, providing ample hunting opportunities statewide. The top counties for fall turkey harvest include:

• Lycoming – Known for its vast forestlands holding turkeys in north-central PA.

• Tioga – Borders Lycoming County with similar habitat along the Susquehanna River valley.

• Armstrong – Mix of farmlands and woodlots in western PA harboring good fall turkey numbers.

• Butler – Agriculture and oak forests allow this county to produce big fall turkey harvests.

• York – Success here comes from farm fields close to mountainous woodlands.

Public lands like state forests, state game lands, and national forest also give hunters places to pursue fall turkeys without access issues. The Allegheny National Forest, Susquehannock State Forest, and game lands in the northwest tend to be top public land bets.

Fall Turkey Season Outlook for 2023

The fall turkey season in 2023 is shaping up to be another good one in Pennsylvania. Poult production has been stable, though wet early brood rearing conditions in 2022 could mean a dip in young turkey numbers. Acorns and other fall foods essential for winter survival are in decent shape. Hunter participation and satisfaction in the fall turkey season remains high coming off the 2022 season.

WMUs 2B, 2C, 2D, and 2E often rank among the top units for fall turkey harvest. The extensive oak forests spread across these units combine with agriculture to provide prime habitat. Hunters willing to put in the effort should expect another quality fall turkey season in Pennsylvania this year.

The fall turkey season in Pennsylvania gives hunters a chance to enjoy turkey hunting opportunities outside of spring. By following the season dates for your WMU, understanding the regulations, and using smart hunting strategies for the fall, you can have a successful hunt. With over 200,000 birds available and positive prospects for the 2023 season,Pennsylvania offers a great chance to tag a fall turkey.