Upland Game Meleagris gallopavo
Wild Turkey Hunting Guide
Complete Wild Turkey hunting guide. Seasons by state, hunting methods, trophy criteria, rut timing, and field care tips for wild turkey hunters.
Boneless Yield
45%
Typical Season Dates
spring
Mar-May
fall
Oct-Nov
Note: Exact dates vary by state and management unit. Always verify with your state wildlife agency before purchasing licenses.
Where to Hunt Wild Turkey
ALL_US_STATES
Meat Yield
| Animal | Live Weight (avg) | Bone-In Yield | Boneless Yield | Boneless lbs (avg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| tom | 20 lbs | 65% | 45% | 9 lbs |
| hen | 10 lbs | 65% | 45% | 5 lbs |
Wild Turkey Hunting Tools
Other Species Guides
Wild Turkey Hunting Articles & Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Wild Turkey season?
Wild Turkey seasons vary by state and weapon type. Typical archery season: late summer to early fall. Rifle season: fall.
What is a trophy-class Wild Turkey?
Trophy criteria for wild turkey vary by scoring system (Boone & Crockett, Pope & Young). Check the scoring systems' websites for current minimums.
How much meat does a Wild Turkey yield?
A mature wild turkey bull/buck weighs 100–300 lbs live weight. Expect 65% boneless meat yield — roughly 225 lbs of boneless meat from an average animal.
What states can I hunt Wild Turkey?
Wild Turkey can be hunted in: ALL_US_STATES. Western states like ALL_US_STATES are known for their wild turkey populations.
When is the Wild Turkey rut?
Wild Turkey rut timing varies by region and elevation. Contact your local wildlife biologist for specific timing in your hunting area.