Everything You Need to Know About Turkey Season in Massachusetts

For many hunters in Massachusetts spring turkey season is the most exciting time of the year. The thrill of calling in a big tom turkey gets the blood pumping like nothing else. If you want to take part in the turkey hunting action this spring read on to learn all about turkey season dates, regulations, tips and more.

When is Turkey Season in Massachusetts?

The 2024 Massachusetts spring turkey season runs from April 29 to May 25. This season provides hunters just under a month to harvest a bird.

Turkey season occurs in the spring because this is when turkeys are most active as they begin breeding. Toms are vocal territorial and responsive to calling from hens and hunters alike.

Fall turkey hunting is more limited. An early fall archery-only hunt takes place from October 17-29, 2024 in select wildlife management zones. The main fall shotgun season runs November 3-22, 2024.

Massachusetts Turkey Hunting Permit & License Info

To legally hunt turkeys in Massachusetts, you must have the following:

• Massachusetts Hunting or Sporting License – Required for all hunters over age 15 Cost is $40 for residents

• Turkey Hunting Permit – Allows the harvest of one bearded turkey in spring or fall. Cost is $5 for residents.

• Stamp Validation – Validate your license with a $5 stamp and sign your name.

All of these can be purchased online through the MassFishHunt licensing system. You will receive paperless electronic versions to print out.

Turkey Hunting Regulations in Massachusetts

Familiarize yourself with the following turkey hunting rules and regulations:

• Only bearded turkeys may be harvested in spring. Either sex is allowed in the fall season.

• Legal shooting hours are from 1/2 hour before sunrise to noon.

• Only shotguns (10 gauge or smaller) loaded with #4 fine shot or smaller may be used. Archery equipment is also permitted.

• The bag limit is one bearded turkey per permit. You may purchase multiple permits.

• All harvested turkeys must be checked and reported through MassFishHunt.

• Use of electronic calling devices is legal. Live decoys are prohibited.

• Turkeys may not be shot while in trees.

As with all hunting, exercise ethical practices, hunt safely and respect private property boundaries.

Where to Hunt Wild Turkeys in Massachusetts

Wild turkeys can be found throughout Massachusetts, with the highest concentrations in central and western regions. Prime public land hunting areas include:

• Quabbin Reservoir Wildlife Management Area
• Berkshire Taconic Plateau Wildlife Management Area
• Tipton State Forest
• Federated Women’s Club State Forest
• Peru Wildlife Management Area
• Ludlow and Birch Hill Wildlife Management Areas
• October Mountain State Forest
• Chester-Blandford State Forest

Familiarize yourself with the terrain and landscape features turkeys prefer, like forests bordering open fields for feeding. Do plenty of scouting to locate flocks.

Tips for Hunting Wild Turkeys in Massachusetts

Here are some key strategies for successful spring turkey hunting:

• Use turkey calls like box calls, slate calls and mouth calls to mimic hens and pique a tom’s interest. Practice calling to refine your skills.

• Set up near roost sites early in the morning when toms are flying down to feed. Listen for gobbles at dawn to pinpoint roosted birds.

• Pick a concealable ambush site with visibility of strutting zones and fly down spots. Sit still and be patient.

• Use decoys carefully to draw in warier old toms. Avoid overusing decoys.

• Remain camouflaged and silent when turkeys are within range. Move only when the turkey’s head is behind a tree or obstruction.

• Be prepared for quickly changing weather in the spring. Use protective clothing like face masks and gloves.