Hunting seasons, dates, and bag limits on WMAs, PFAs, State Parks, and federal lands may differ from those below. See area specific listings.
Turkey hunting is a beloved tradition for many outdoor enthusiasts in Georgia. With over 1 million acres of public land and a variety of habitats that support wild turkey populations, there are ample opportunities across the state. However turkey numbers have been declining over the past two decades, leading to changes in season dates and regulations intended to aid in conservation efforts. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the 2024 spring turkey hunting season in Georgia including key dates, bag limits, license requirements, top public lands to hunt, harvest trends and more.
Overview of the 2024 Turkey Season in Georgia
The 2024 spring turkey season in Georgia will run from Saturday, March 30 to Tuesday, May 15 on private lands, while the season for public lands will open later on Saturday, April 6. The season was pushed back by one week compared to previous years in an effort to offset declining turkey populations.
Here are some key dates for the 2024 spring turkey season in Georgia:
- March 23-24 – Special youth/mobility impaired season on private lands only
- March 30 – Opening day for private lands
- April 6 – Opening day for public lands
- May 15 – Last day of turkey season statewide
The daily bag limit is one bearded turkey, and the season limit is two gobblers per hunter statewide. On public lands, the limit is one gobbler total per hunter.
License and Permit Requirements
All turkey hunters in Georgia, including youth under 16, must obtain a free harvest record each season and report their harvest through Georgia Game Check within 24 hours. A hunting license and a big game license are required for hunters aged 16 and older unless hunting on their own private land. Licenses can be purchased online, by phone or at various retailers.
Some public land hunts require applying for a quota permit, which can take two to four years to draw for the most popular hunts. The application period runs from June 1 to February 15 each year.
Factors in Georgia’s Turkey Population Decline
After reaching a peak turkey harvest of over 40,000 birds in 2005, Georgia’s overall harvest declined to just 11,909 turkeys in 2023. Poult production has been below average over the past decade, likely contributing to reduced hunter success and satisfaction. Changes in habitat and land use, weather variability, predation and hunter participation are also likely factors in the turkey population decline.
In response, the Georgia DNR has implemented more conservative harvest regulations and season dates over the past couple years. It remains to be seen if these strategies will help reverse the downward trend.
Best Counties and Public Lands for Turkey Hunting
The Piedmont and Upper Coastal Plain regions have consistently produced the highest turkey harvests in Georgia. More locally, Polk, Floyd, Burke, Bartow and Gilmer counties in northwest Georgia are perennially top turkey producers.
On public lands, the Chattahoochee National Forest yielded the highest total harvest in 2023 with 174 birds taken. Other top public hunting destinations for turkeys include Fort Stewart, Oconee National Forest, Paulding Forest WMA and Pine Log WMA.
However, total harvest doesn’t always indicate the highest success rates. Smaller areas like Piedmont NWR and Coopers Creek WMA also offer great hunting despite lower total harvests.
Tips for Hunting Turkeys in Georgia
Even with declining populations, successful turkey hunting is certainly achievable with smart preparation and persistence. Here are some tips:
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Scout – Spend as much time as possible before season scouting birds and identifying areas of high use.
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Use decoys and calls – Decoys can draw in curious dominant gobblers while calling imitates hens and sparks competition. Take time to practice calling and learn proper techniques.
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Be patient – Don’t expect to bag a bird on the first day. Hunt safely and minimize disturbance to increase your odds as the season progresses.
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Play the wind – Make sure you’re downwind of a gobbler’s suspected location so your scent doesn’t give you away.
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Use a blind – Blinds conceal movement and help you avoid getting spotted. Set up near strut zones and roost sites turkeys frequent.
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Be mobile – If turkeys aren’t cooperating in one area, pack up and still-hunt unpressured spots until you locate more receptive birds.
Outlook for Spring Turkey Hunting in Georgia
It will likely take a few years before we know if recent conservative regulations are successful in rebounding turkey populations in Georgia. The decline has been significant, but there are still ample hunting opportunities to be had across the state if hunters are willing to put in the effort. The traditions of spring turkey hunting season run deep in Georgia, and with any luck, conservation efforts will ensure future generations can enjoy the experience.
This turkey season, focus on savoring your time in the spring woods and making the most of every hunt. Do your part to hunt ethically, encourage others, and promote sustainability. Gobbler or not, a day spent turkey hunting in Georgia is a good day!
This Is How You Turkey Hunt in the Late Season
FAQ
What are the dates for turkey season in Georgia?
What are the hunting seasons in Georgia?
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Species
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Season
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Dove
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Statewide Sept. 2–Oct. 8, Nov. 18–26, Dec. 19–Jan. 31
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Fox & Bobcat
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Dec. 1–Feb. 29
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Grouse
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Statewide Oct. 15–Feb. 29
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Sora & Rails
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Statewide Oct. 8–28, Nov. 8–Dec. 26
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Can you hunt turkey over corn in Georgia?
How many turkeys can you legally harvest in Georgia each year?
What are Georgia’s best public land turkey hunting opportunities?
As I mentioned earlier, many of Georgia’s best public land turkey hunting opportunities are quota hunts. That means you must apply for the hunt prior to turkey season and be drawn in order to participate. Each year you apply for a hunt and don’t get drawn, you will earn a preference point, which improves your odds of being drawn in future seasons.
Why is turkey hunting important in Georgia?
Georgia actively encourages youth participation in turkey hunting, fostering the next generation of hunters and conservationists. Youth hunting days are frequently set aside before the main season. These days provide young hunters with less pressure and greater learning and success opportunities.
Do you need a license to hunt turkeys in Georgia?
To hunt turkeys in Georgia, hunters must obtain the appropriate season hunting licenses. Residents need a standard hunting license and a Big Game License, while for non-residents the rate is higher. Youth and senior hunters have discounts, as well as active-duty military personnel stationed in Georgia.
How do I apply for a turkey hunt in Georgia?
Georgia accepts applications for limited turkey hunts from June 1 through February 15. You must register and be selected to participate. You gain a choice point if you are not picked, which improves your likelihood of being chosen in subsequent seasons. A few days after the deadline, the Georgia DNR performs the selection and informs candidates.