When Is Turkey Season in West Virginia?

Planning Your West Virginia Turkey Hunting Adventure

If you are an avid turkey hunter or new to the sport, knowing when turkey season opens in West Virginia is critical. Every year, hunters across the Mountain State gear up for turkey season, hoping for a safe and successful experience. Understanding the season dates, West Virginia DNR regulations, and tips for turkey hunting can make your trip safe and rewarding.

West Virginia Turkey Season Dates: Spring and Fall Overview

West Virginia offers two main turkey hunting seasons: spring and fall. These seasons are managed by the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR) to ensure a healthy wild turkey population. Each season has different regulations, bag limits, and considerations.

• Spring Turkey Season: The spring gobbler season is the most popular. Typically, it starts in mid-April and runs for about four weeks, ending in mid-May. Youth days are often scheduled one week before the regular season.
• Fall Turkey Season: The fall season length varies based on wildlife management units. In most areas, the season takes place from early October through late October or early November, depending on location and turkey populations.

Check the West Virginia hunting regulations released every year for exact season dates. Season dates may shift due to conservation goals or regional wildlife needs.

Where to Hunt Wild Turkey in West Virginia

West Virginia boasts many public lands and forests that provide excellent turkey hunting opportunities. Find wild turkeys in areas with a mix of hardwood forests, open fields, and water sources. Some of the most popular hunting areas include:

• Monongahela National Forest
• George Washington and Jefferson National Forests
• Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) throughout the state
• Private lands (with landowner permission)

Always study topographic maps, scouting before the season helps increase your chances of success. Turkey habitat in West Virginia changes throughout the season, so look for roosting trees, feeding sites, and fresh tracks.

Bag Limits, Tags, and Hunting Regulations for West Virginia Turkey Hunters

Being aware of West Virginia turkey hunting regulations and bag limits ensures ethical hunting and prevents fines. Here are some essential points:

• Spring Season: You are limited to harvesting male wild turkeys (bearded birds). The spring daily bag limit is usually one bird, with a season bag limit of two.
• Fall Season: Either-sex turkeys may be harvested unless otherwise specified. Bag limits may vary by county and season length, generally one or two turkeys per season.
• Mandatory Harvest Reporting: You must report every turkey harvested through the official WVDNR electronic check system on the same day the harvest occurs.
• Licensing: All hunters must have a valid West Virginia hunting license and applicable turkey stamps.

Remember, youth and apprentice hunters might have additional rules. Always review the latest West Virginia DNR game laws before heading out.

Best Practices and Tips for a Successful Turkey Hunt in West Virginia

Hunting wild turkey in West Virginia is both challenging and rewarding. Follow these tips to have a successful and safe hunting experience:

• Scout in advance: Listen for gobbles at dawn, locate feeding areas, and look for turkey sign such as scratchings or feathers.
• Use camouflage: Turkeys have excellent eyesight. Wear camo that matches the local habitat, including gloves and a face mask.
• Choose the right calls: Slate, box, and mouth calls work well for attracting toms during the spring.
• Set up early: Get into position before sunrise. Turkeys are most active in the early morning and late afternoon.
• Be patient and still: Turkeys are wary; any movement or noise can spook them.
• Follow firearm safety: Make sure of your target and what is beyond it.

Licensing Requirements for Turkey Hunting in West Virginia

Before you hit the woods, make sure your paperwork is in order. Here’s what West Virginia requires for turkey hunters:

• Residents: Valid resident hunting license and a turkey stamp.
• Non-residents: Appropriate non-resident license and turkey stamps.
• Youth hunters: Can use a junior license and follow special youth seasons and regulations.
• Senior and military exemptions: Some hunters may qualify for license exemptions but must still comply with game laws.

All licenses and stamps can be purchased online or at authorized vendors throughout West Virginia.

What Gear Do You Need for West Virginia Turkey Hunting?

Success depends on being prepared. A few must-have items for turkey season in West Virginia include:

• Shotgun or legal archery equipment
• Non-toxic shot (where required)
• Camo clothing (including face mask and gloves)
• Turkey calls (box, slate, or mouth calls)
• Decoys for added realism
• Blinds or natural cover for concealment
• GPS or mapping app for navigation
• Harvest reporting tools (phone or internet access)

Pack snacks, water, and a field dressing kit to ensure a comfortable and safe outing.

Frequently Asked Questions about Turkey Season in West Virginia

When does spring turkey season start and end in West Virginia?

West Virginia’s spring turkey season usually opens in mid-April and ends in mid-May. The exact spring turkey dates change slightly each year, so check the current WVDNR hunting regulations for precise information.

Are there youth turkey hunting days in West Virginia?

Yes. Typically, West Virginia hosts special youth turkey hunting days the weekend before the regular spring season starts. Youth under a certain age, accompanied by a licensed adult, can hunt during these days.

How many turkeys can you harvest in West Virginia per season?

The spring season bag limit is usually one bearded turkey per day, two per season. The fall bag limit can be one or two, depending on county regulations. Always check the latest laws for your hunting area.

What licenses do you need for turkey hunting in West Virginia?

You need a valid West Virginia hunting license plus the annual turkey stamp. Non-residents and residents have different license types and fees. Youth, seniors, and military may have special license provisions.

Do you have to report a harvested turkey in West Virginia?

Yes, you must report your turkey harvest on the same day using the West Virginia DNR’s official electronic game check system. This helps with wildlife management and conservation efforts.

What are the legal hunting hours for turkey in West Virginia?

Legal turkey hunting hours in West Virginia are from 30 minutes before sunrise to 1 p.m. during spring season, and typically from 30 minutes before sunrise to sunset in the fall. Always double-check with WVDNR regulations before hunting.

Turkey Hunting Safety and Stewardship in West Virginia

Be a responsible hunter. Respect landowners, follow ethical hunting methods, and observe all safety rules. Leave no trace, and help preserve West Virginia’s wild turkey populations for years to come. Happy hunting!