Where to Hunt Turkey in Colorado

Turkey hunting is a popular sport in Colorado that provides a great opportunity to be outdoors and challenge your hunting skills. With the right preparation and knowledge Colorado offers many excellent places to pursue wild turkeys across beautiful and varied landscapes. This article provides key information on the top areas and options for turkey hunting in Colorado.

Overview of Turkey Hunting in Colorado

Turkey hunting is regulated with spring and fall seasons requiring specific licenses. The spring season runs from mid-April through May with the fall season from September through October. There are limited licenses allocated by drawings for public and private lands, as well as unlimited over-the-counter licenses depending on the game management unit. Hunters are required to have completed hunter education certification.

Wild turkeys were extirpated in Colorado in the early 1900s, but were reintroduced through conservation efforts There are now stable populations of Merriam’s and Rio Grande turkeys that provide hunting opportunities Turkeys are most abundant in the southern and western regions of the state. Popular techniques include using turkey calls, decoys, and scouting for signs of activity.

Top Public Land Areas for Turkey Hunting

There are many public lands across Colorado that allow turkey hunting and provide great access. Here are some top destinations:

• Pikes Peak Region: This area offers beautiful mountain terrain with good Merriam’s turkey populations. Recommended public lands include Rampart Range Road, Elevenmile Canyon, and Simpson Ranch.

• San Luis Valley: Large area with excellent Rio Grande turkey habitat along creeks and agricultural fields. Public lands options are Del Norte State Wildlife Area and Rio Grande National Forest.

• Purgatoire River: Provides quality Rio Grande turkey hunting on Comanche National Grassland and Purgatoire River State Wildlife Area.

• San Juan Mountains: Remote canyon country in southwest Colorado with limited access but good Merriam’s turkey populations. Try hunting Uncompahgre National Forest.

• Plateau Valley Region: Mesa Verde National Park and McPhee Reservoir are top public sites for turkey hunting the canyons and mesas of this northwest region.

Best Outfitters for Guided Turkey Hunts

For hunters that want an assisted experience, outfitters offer guided turkey hunts on private ranches with lodging. This provides excellent access to quality habitat and expert guidance. Top outfitters across Colorado include:

• Rabbit Gulch Gobblers – Premier turkey outfitter based in Craig focusing on Merriam’s turkeys in the wide-open landscape of northwest Colorado. All-inclusive package with comfortable lodge.

• Tomcat Turkey Ranch – Specializing in Rio Grande turkeys of eastern Colorado with private land access. Provides callers, decoys, and blinds for a quality guided hunt.

• Gander River Outfitters – Local outfitter operating in prime Rio Grande turkey habitat around Lamar. Offers customizable hunt packages and lodging at Turkey Lodge.

• Running A Ranch – Guided Merriam’s turkey hunts on scenic property in South Park region. Comfortable accommodations and homemade meals provided at ranch lodge.

Tips for Turkey Hunting Success

Hunting turkeys can be challenging with their keen eyesight and hearing. Use these tips to improve your odds and make the most of your hunt:

• Scout thoroughly – Spend time before season scouting flocks and patterns of movement. Identify roosting sites and areas of feeding and breeding activity.

• Use decoys and calls skillfully – Employ realistic decoys and use turkey calls effectively and sparingly to draw in gobblers. Avoid overcalling.

• Be patient and still – Make slow, subtle movements when set up on a bird and wait patiently for a good shot opportunity. Move only when the turkey is not looking.

• Take aim carefully – turkey heads are small targets so focus on getting close and aiming deliberately for the head and neck when safe and legal.

With preparation and practice, Colorado provides abundant opportunities for rewarding turkey hunts across public and private lands. Follow regulations, hunt ethically, and use reliable guides when needed. The landscapes and experiences of turkey hunting in Colorado will create lasting memories.