Best Turkey Hunting Locations

Turkey hunting is a beloved pastime for many, offering a thrilling challenge and the reward of wild game. Choosing the right location is crucial for a successful hunt. This document outlines some of the top regions and specific states renowned for their abundant turkey populations and excellent hunting opportunities.

Top Regions for Turkey HuntingThe Southeast

The southeastern United States is often considered the heartland of turkey hunting. With diverse habitats ranging from dense forests to agricultural fields, the region supports robust populations of Eastern wild turkeys. Key states in this region include:

• Alabama: Known for its long turkey seasons and numerous public lands.
• Georgia: Offers a mix of public and private land hunting with strong turkey numbers.
• Florida: Unique with its Osceola subspecies, found primarily in the central and southern parts of the state.
• Mississippi: Consistently ranks among the top states for turkey harvest.

The Midwest

The Midwest also boasts excellent turkey hunting, particularly for Eastern and some Rio Grande subspecies. The combination of hardwood forests, rolling hills, and agricultural areas provides ideal habitat.

• Missouri: A perennial favorite, often leading the nation in turkey harvest.
• Kansas: Renowned for its Rio Grande turkeys and abundant public access.
• Iowa: Offers high success rates, especially in its timbered areas.
• Wisconsin: A beautiful state with good turkey populations, particularly in the southwestern counties.

The West

While not as historically known for turkeys as the Southeast or Midwest, several western states offer fantastic hunting for Merriam's and Rio Grande subspecies, often in picturesque landscapes.

• Nebraska: Offers a diverse turkey hunting experience with all four subspecies found in different parts of the state.
• South Dakota: Known for its beautiful Black Hills region and strong Merriam's turkey populations.
• Wyoming: Provides opportunities for Merriam's turkeys in mountainous and forested areas.
• Colorado: Good populations of Merriam's turkeys in the western and southern parts of the state.

Considerations for Choosing a Location

When selecting a turkey hunting location, consider the following factors:

• Subspecies: Different subspecies (Eastern, Rio Grande, Merriam's, Osceola) have distinct behaviors and habitats.
• Public vs. Private Land: Research available public lands and consider seeking permission for private land access.
• Hunting Pressure: Some popular areas may experience higher hunting pressure.
• Season Dates and Regulations: Always check the specific state's regulations, bag limits, and season dates.
• Accommodation and Amenities: Plan for lodging, food, and other necessities, especially in remote areas.

Key State Highlights

The table below provides a quick overview of some top states and their primary turkey subspecies.

State	Primary Subspecies	Public Land Availability	Average Success Rate
Alabama	Eastern	Good	High
Florida	Osceola, Eastern	Moderate	Moderate
Georgia	Eastern	Moderate	High
Iowa	Eastern	Moderate	High
Kansas	Rio Grande, Eastern	Good	High
Missouri	Eastern	Excellent	Very High
Nebraska	All four	Good	High
South Dakota	Merriam's	Good	Moderate