COLUMBUS, Ohio – Ohio hunters are looking forward to spring wild turkey seasons beginning in April, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife. Ohio’s spring turkey season is a highly anticipated tradition that has occurred annually since 1966.
Ohio’s 2024 youth wild turkey hunting season is Saturday, April 13 and Sunday, April 14. Ohio’s regular seasons are divided into two zones: the south zone, which opens to hunters on Saturday, April 20, and the northeast zone (Ashtabula, Cuyahoga, Geauga, Lake, and Trumbull counties), which opens on Saturday, April 27. The season limit is one bearded turkey.
Ohio’s wild turkey hunting seasons begin in April. The season limit is one bearded turkey.
During the 2023 spring turkey seasons, hunters harvested 15,673 birds. Among those were 1,823 turkeys checked by young hunters during the two-day youth season. Eastern and southern counties, where forested habitat is most abundant, typically record the highest number of harvests. The top five counties in 2023 were Ashtabula (454 birds taken), Gallia (428), Muskingum (420), Monroe (410), and Tuscarawas (408).
The restoration of the wild turkey in Ohio is among the state’s most notable wildlife success stories. Wild turkeys were extirpated around 1904, and the Division of Wildlife began reintroducing wild turkeys to the Buckeye State in the 1950s. For the next five decades, the wild turkey population grew and expanded rapidly, facilitated by trap-and-transfer efforts. By 1999, wild turkeys were found in all 88 counties. Wild turkey research Each summer, the Division of Wildlife collects information on young wild turkeys, called poults. Brood surveys in 2021, 2022, and 2023 showed above average results that will benefit Ohio’s wild turkey population numbers this spring. The statewide average poults per hen observed was 2.8 in 2023, 3.0 in 2022, and 3.1 in 2021, with a long-term average of 2.7. In addition to turkey brood surveys, the Division of Wildlife is studying the nesting and survival of hen turkeys in eastern Ohio in collaboration with researchers in Maryland, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. Last year, Ohio’s biologists affixed GPS transmitters to 49 hens and gathered information on their movement, survival, and nest activity timing. This year, staff are gathering data from 137 hens via GPS transmitters. Division of Wildlife staff are also conducting research on the gobbling frequency and timing of male wild turkeys. Biologists placed 32 recorders in northeast and southeast Ohio this spring to record wild turkey gobbles and learn more about factors that influence gobbling. Preliminary results from 2023 show that gobbling peaked in late April, with a smaller peak in the first half of May. Information gathered from the brood surveys, multiyear nest study, and gobbling research will influence wild turkey management decisions in the coming years. This helps the Division of Wildlife structure science-based turkey hunting regulations, ensuring wild turkey success across Ohio for many more years. Turkey hunting regulations During the two-day youth hunting season, hunters ages 17 and under can participate with a youth hunting license ($10 for a one-year license) and youth turkey permit ($16). Licenses and permits can be purchased on the Ohio Wildlife Licensing System, via the HuntFish OH mobile app, or at participating license sales agents. Youth hunters are required to be accompanied by a nonhunting adult, 18 years of age or older. Hunting hours during the youth season are 30 minutes before sunrise until sunset.
In both the south zone and northeast zone, turkey hunting hours for the first nine days of the season are from 30 minutes before sunrise until noon. For the remainder of the season, hours are extended until sunset. The season ends in the south zone on Sunday, May 19, and in the northeast zone on Sunday, May 26. Turkey hunters are required to have a valid hunting license and spring turkey permit, unless exempted. Find more information in the current hunting and trapping regulations. In youth and statewide seasons, hunters are required to game check their harvested bird no later than 11:30 p.m. on the day it was taken. The Division of Wildlife’s automated game check system is available on wildohio.gov, on the HuntFish OH mobile app, by phone at 877-TAG-IT-OH (877-824-4864), or at a participating license agent. Reporting your harvest allows the Division of Wildlife to monitor wild turkey populations from year to year and impacts management decisions on wild turkeys.
The mission of the Division of Wildlife is to conserve and improve fish and wildlife resources and their habitats for sustainable use and appreciation by all. Visit wildohio.gov to find out more.
In 2024, join ODNR as we celebrate 75 years of protecting Ohio’s natural resources and providing outstanding and award-winning recreational opportunities.
ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.
For hunters seeking a taste of Ohio turkey hunting, the state provides ample opportunities to pursue wild birds each spring and limited chances in the fall season. Read on for a complete guide to Ohio turkey seasons including dates for 2023, 2024 hunting zones, and legal limits.
Overview of Ohio Turkey Hunting Seasons
Ohio manages spring and fall turkey hunting seasons to allow hunters to target these crafty gamebirds:
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Spring Turkey Season runs from mid April to late May when birds are actively breeding and gobbling
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Fall Turkey Season provides a short window in late October to hunt juvenile birds before winter
Season dates vary based on hunting zone as outlined below. Only bearded turkeys can be harvested in spring, while either sex is legal in the fall.
When is the Spring Turkey Season in Ohio?
The Ohio spring turkey hunting dates for 2023 are:
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South Zone: April 22 – May 21, 2023
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Northeast Zone: April 29 – May 28, 2023
The 2024 Ohio spring turkey season will be:
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South Zone: April 20 – May 19, 2024
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Northeast Zone: April 27 – May 26, 2024
Specific counties for each turkey hunting zone are defined in the ODNR Hunting & Trapping Regulations. Hunting hours are 30 minutes before sunrise until noon each day.
The spring turkey bag limit is two bearded birds total, but only one can be harvested per day. No more than one may be a jake (young male).
When is the Fall Turkey Hunting Season in Ohio?
Ohio offers a limited fall turkey season in specific counties:
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2022: October 15 – November 13, 2022
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2023: October 14 – November 12, 2023
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2024: October 12 – November 10, 2024
Only 1 turkey of either sex can be harvested during the fall season. Archery equipment only is permitted.
Consult the ODNR for open counties and zones. No fall turkey hunting is allowed on public lands.
What are Ohio’s Turkey Hunting Regulations?
All turkey hunters in Ohio must follow these general rules:
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Purchase valid hunting license, permits, and game tags.
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Hunt only during legal hours from 30 minutes before sunrise to noon.
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Use legal weapons like shotguns, archery equipment, or air powered guns.
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Check harvested turkeys by 11:30 pm on the day of harvest.
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Follow all regulations listed in the ODNR Hunting & Trapping guide.
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Adhere to zone-specific season dates and bag limits.
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No electronic calling devices are permitted while hunting turkeys.
What Age Groups Can Hunt Turkeys in Ohio?
Turkey hunting opportunities in Ohio exist for:
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Youth ages 17 and under, who must be accompanied by an adult.
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All hunters age 18 and older who have completed hunter education certification if required.
Mentored youth hunting allows those under 17 to hunt with an adult, but only the youth can harvest turkeys. The adult must have valid hunting licenses and tags as well.
Where are the Best Places to Turkey Hunt in Ohio?
Good public land turkey hunting can be found on:
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Shawnee State Forest – Excellent habitat with controlled hunts.
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Waterloo Wildlife Area – Mixed terrain with open woods near fields.
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Fallsville Wildlife Area – Rolling hills with oak forests hold birds.
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Darby Creek Public Hunting Lands – Scattered clearings and brushy woods.
Ohio also has many private land hotspots, especially in the southeast region, so cultivate farmer relationships for access.
Tips for Beginners Turkey Hunting in Ohio
New turkey hunters in Ohio should:
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Research regulations and purchase required tags/permits.
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Pattern local flocks in early spring by scouting gobbler habitats.
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Invest in camouflage clothing, calls, decoys and other key gear.
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Learn different calling techniques like clucks, yelps and purrs.
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Practice with your hunting equipment to build confidence.
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Mentor with an experienced turkey hunter if possible.
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Be patient and hunt safely – move slowly and quietly.
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Consider a turkey hunting clinic or guided hunt for hands-on experience.
With preparation and scouting, new hunters can enjoy a rite of spring in the Ohio woods chasing these challenging birds.
Stay Up to Date on Ohio Turkey Seasons and Info
Be sure to check these sources annually for the latest turkey hunting season dates and regulations in Ohio:
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ODNR Hunting & Trapping Regulations guide – published each summer
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ODNR website hunting section
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Outdoor News Ohio online and print editions
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Local sportsman’s clubs and conservation groups like the NWTF
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Outdoor forums and social media groups for Ohio hunters
Gobbler chasing takes patience and woodsmanship. Get fully prepared using the resources above to make the most of Ohio’s spring turkey hunting opportunities.
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Ohio wild turkey hunting season returns
FAQ
What are the dates for turkey hunting in Ohio?
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SEASON
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OPENING DATE
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BAG LIMIT
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Fall Wild Turkey: Select Counties
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Oct. 14, 2023
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1 (either sex)
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Youth Spring Wild Turkey
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April 13, 2024
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1 bearded turkey
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Spring Wild Turkey: South Zone (except for Lake La Su An Wildlife Area)
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April 20, 2024
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Spring Wild Turkey: Northeast Zone
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April 27, 2024
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When can you hunt turkeys in Ohio in 2024?
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SEASON
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OPENING DATE
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BAG LIMIT
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Fall Wild Turkey: Select Counties
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Oct. 14, 2023
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1 (either sex)
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Youth Spring Wild Turkey
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April 13, 2024
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1 bearded turkey
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Spring Wild Turkey: South Zone (except for Lake La Su An Wildlife Area)
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April 20, 2024
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Spring Wild Turkey: Northeast Zone
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April 27, 2024
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How many turkeys can you shoot in Ohio?
Is Ohio a good turkey hunting state?
When is wild turkey season in Ohio?
Hunters should refer to the Ohio Hunting and Trapping Regulations for turkey hunting requirements. When is Ohio’s spring wild turkey season for 2024? Spring wild turkey season in Ohio will be split into three groups: statewide youth April 13-14, 2024; south zone April 20 to May 19, 2024; and northeast zone April 27 to May 26, 2024.
When does turkey hunting start in Ohio?
Ohio’s regular seasons are divided into two zones: the south zone, which opens to hunters on Saturday, April 20, and the northeast zone (Ashtabula, Cuyahoga, Geauga, Lake, and Trumbull counties), which opens on Saturday, April 27. The season limit is one bearded turkey. Ohio’s wild turkey hunting seasons begin in April.
When is Ohio wild turkey hunting season 2024?
Ohio’s 2024 youth wild turkey hunting season is Saturday, April 13 and Sunday, April 14. Ohio’s regular seasons are divided into two zones: the south zone, which opens to hunters on Saturday, April 20, and the northeast zone (Ashtabula, Cuyahoga, Geauga, Lake, and Trumbull counties), which opens on Saturday, April 27.
How many bearded turkeys can you hunt in Ohio?
The statewide limit is one bearded turkey during the 2024 spring season. Find additional information in the 2023-24 Hunting and Trapping Regulations. Photo caption: Ohio’s 2024 spring wild turkey hunting season dates were approved by the Ohio Wildlife Council on Wednesday, Oct. 4. Additional Ohio Wildlife Council action