Wyoming Turkey Hunting
How to Hunt Turkeys in Wyoming
If you love turkey hunting, you should definitely check out Wyoming. This state has plenty of wild Merriam’s turkeys, the beautiful birds with white-tipped tails and purple feathers. Wyoming also has different types of licenses and seasons to suit your preferences. Whether you want to hunt in the spring or fall, with a general or limited quota license, you can find your perfect spot in Wyoming.
To hunt turkeys in Wyoming, you need two things: a hunting license and a turkey license. You can buy a hunting license online or at any vendor. It lasts for a year and lets you hunt all game animals in Wyoming. You also need a separate turkey license for each season and area. Some areas have general licenses that you can buy anytime, while others have limited quota licenses that you have to apply for in advance. The prices vary depending on the type and your residency.
Wyoming has 12 areas for turkey hunting, each with its own rules and dates. You can see all the details on the website or the brochure. One of the best areas is Area 1, the Black Hills, where you can hunt with a general license in both spring and fall. Another popular area is Area 3, where you can hunt with a limited quota license in both seasons. You can also explore other areas that have different options and opportunities.
Turkey hunting in Wyoming is not easy, but it is rewarding. You have to be stealthy and smart to outwit these birds. You have to scout the area and find where they roost, feed and travel. You have to use calls, decoys or blinds to lure or ambush them. You have to hunt early or late, when they are most active. You can use a shotgun or a bow, but make sure you use the right ammo or arrows.
You also need some basic gear and equipment for turkey hunting in Wyoming. Here are some of them:
- A shotgun or a bow. Choose one that is legal and effective for turkey hunting. Use turkey loads or broadheads for better results. Practice before the hunt to make sure you are accurate and confident.
- A hunting license and a turkey license. Carry both with you while hunting. Sign and attach your turkey license to your bird right after you kill it.
- A hunter education certificate. If you were born after January 1, 1966, you need one or a hunter mentor program
- A hunter mentor program certificate. If you don’t have a hunter education certificate, you can hunt with a mentor who has one. You need to have a hunter mentor program certificate with you while hunting.
- A camouflage clothing and gear. Turkeys have sharp eyes and ears, so you need to blend in with the environment and be quiet. Wear camouflage clothing and gear that matches the terrain and season.
- A call, a decoy or a blind. These are optional but helpful tools to attract or ambush turkeys. You can use a gobble or hen call in the spring or a flock call in the fall. You can use a decoy to make your call more realistic or a blind to hide your presence.
Turkey hunting in Wyoming is an amazing adventure that you will never forget. You will enjoy the scenery, the challenge and the reward of hunting these magnificent birds. Wyoming is waiting for you, so get ready and go hunt some turkeys!
Please visit the Wyoming Fish and Game Department for most up to date data.
Spring Season
Season | Dates | Bag Limit |
---|---|---|
Private land | Apr. 1 – May 15, 2023 | Two gobblers per season, daily bag of one |
Public land | Apr. 8 – May 15, 2023 | Two gobblers per season, daily bag of one |
Fall Season
Season | Dates | Bag Limit |
---|---|---|
Fall general | Sep. 1 – Dec. 31, 2023 | One wild turkey of either sex |
Fall limited quota | Sep. 1 – Dec. 31, 2023 | One wild turkey of either sex, quota varies by hunt area |
Please visit the Wyoming Fish and Game Department for most up to date data.