Turkey Hunting
The LETSGOHUNTINGTM website provides information on and awareness of hunting, including hunting laws and regulations, information on hunting preserves, and other general information for new and experienced hunters.
How to Hunt Turkeys: Everything Beginners Need to Know
Whether you’re drawn to the crisp stillness of spring mornings or the golden hues of a fall forest, hunting wild turkey offers an exciting, accessible way to connect with nature and learn valuable skills. In this guide, you’ll learn the basics of how to hunt turkey, what gear you need, where to go and how to stay safe. We’ll also walk through species identification, calling techniques, regulations, recipes and ways to get involved with conservation-minded organizations like the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF). Whether you’re starting from scratch or just looking for a refresher, this page will help you head into the field with confidence.
Know Your Subspecies
The U.S. is home to five wild turkey subspecies. Most hunters will encounter one of these four:
Eastern Wild Turkey
Location: Most of the eastern U.S.
Eastern Wild Turkey
Location: Most of the eastern U.S.
Where to Hunt Wild Turkey
Turkey hunting is possible in nearly every state and opportunities abound on both public and private lands.
Public Lands
- National forests, wildlife management areas and state lands often offer spring or fall turkey hunts.
- These areas may require special permits or sign-in procedures.
- Scouting is key. Visit ahead of time if possible.
Private Lands
- Many beginners hunt with a friend, mentor or family member on private land.
- In some areas, guided hunts or outfitted experiences are available.
Use NSSF’s Where to Hunt Map to find public and private turkey hunting opportunities near you.
Latest News in Hunting
Working together to encourage responsible mentorship in local communities.
Invite Someone Hunting
One hunt can be all it takes to create a new hunter for life. With your help, we can recruit the next generation of hunters and shooters and grow America’s hunting heritage like never before. Join the +ONE Movement and invite a friend on your next hunt. Share your passion with posts on social media with #PlusOneMovement and #LetsGoHunting.
Invite Someone Hunting
One hunt can be all it takes to create a new hunter for life. With your help, we can recruit the next generation of hunters and shooters and grow America’s hunting heritage like never before. Join the +ONE Movement and invite a friend on your next hunt. Share your passion with posts on social media with #PlusOneMovement and #LetsGoHunting.
Take Someone Hunting
10 commandments of firearm safety
How to plan for a safe hunting trip
1
Always Keep the Muzzle Pointed in a Safe Direction
Simply put: Never point a gun at anything you don’t intend to shoot—even when dry firing.
2
Keep Firearms Unloaded When Not in Use
Never load a gun until you are ready to shoot. When not in use, store firearms and ammo separately.
3
Don’t Rely on a Gun’s Safety
Treat every gun as though it can fire at any time. Safeties are mechanical devices that can become inoperable without your knowing.
4
Be Sure of Your Target and What’s Beyond It
No target is so important that you can’t take the time before pulling the trigger to be certain of where your shot will stop.
5
Use the Correct Ammunition
Using improper or incorrect ammunition can destroy a gun and cause serious personal injury. Always double-check your ammo.
6
If the Gun Fails to Fire, Handle with Care
If nothing happens when you pull the trigger, keep the muzzle pointed downrange, unload the gun, and dispose of the faulty cartridge.
7
Always Wear Eye and Ear Protection
Exposure to a firearm’s report can damage hearing; adequate vision protection is essential at all times while shooting.
8
Be Sure the Barrel is Clear of Obstructions
Before loading a firearm, open the action, check that there’s no ammo in the chamber or magazine, and make sure the barrel is clear.
9
Don’t Alter or Modify a Gun, and Service Regularly
Any alteration or change made to a firearm after manufacture can make the gun dangerous. Also, follow the manufacturer’s service recommendations.
10
Learn the Mechanical and Handling Characteristics of the Gun
Every firearm is different. Never handle a gun without first familiarizing yourself with it and the way it works.
Bringing New Hunters Afield:
Inside NDA's first field to fork rifle event on a refuge
Bringing New Hunters into the Outdoors Pennsylvania held its first Field to Fork rifle event at Cherry Valley National Wildlife Refuge in Stroudsburg, PA. Organized by the National Deer Association (NDA) and supported by the Pennsylvania Game Commission, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and NSSF, this event provided a unique opportunity for adults from non-hunting backgrounds to experience deer hunting in a mentored setting.
How to Invite a New Hunter
Getting Youth Involved
Gun Fit
Opening Day
Celebrate the Hunt
Latest News in Hunting
Working together to encourage responsible mentorship in local communities.
5 Essentials for a First Hunt
1
Blaze Orange
Safety first. Plus, an orange hat and vest makes a great welcoming gift to hunting.
2
Binocular
Bring an extra bino so the newcomer can stay engaged even during the slow periods.
3
Wind Checker
Helps drive home the importance of always knowing what the wind is doing.
4
Hand Warmers
As every hunter knows, no matter how good the gloves, hands will get cold.
5
Large Thermos
Nothing helps pass the time like a warming cup of coffee or hot cocoa.
#plusonemovement
Join the +ONE Movement and share your experience with posts on social media.