With the Ohio Wildlife Council’s approval, the statewide youth wild turkey season dates have been set for April 13-14. This presents a special opportunity for young hunters to experience the excitement of turkey hunting before the general season opens.
The season for the south zone, which includes all counties except those in the northeast zone, will run from April 20 to May 19.
For hunters in the northeast zone, which consists of Ashtabula, Cuyahoga, Geauga, Lake, and Trumbull counties, the season extends from April 27 to May 26.
These dates provide ample time to plan your hunting excursions in Ohio’s various terrains and harvest a wild turkey.
2024 Spring Turkey Season Dates
The spring turkey hunting season in Ohio for 2024 is set with specific dates for statewide and youth hunters. Ensure you’re aware of these dates to plan your hunting activities accordingly.
Start and End Dates
- South Zone: Your hunting season begins on April 20 and ends on May 19, 2024.
- Northeast Zone: Your opening day is April 27, and the season will conclude on May 26, 2024.
Youth Hunting Weekend
- Statewide Youth Season: Youth hunters start early, with the weekend set for April 13-14, 2024.
Hunting Areas
During the spring turkey season in Ohio, you can hunt on various public lands and private properties. Before planning your hunt, check specific regulations and obtain the necessary permissions.
Public Lands
Public lands available for turkey hunting in Ohio include state forests, wildlife areas, and national forests. These lands are managed for conservation as well as recreation, which includes hunting:
- State Wildlife Areas: A list of specific areas open for turkey hunting can be obtained from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR). Remember that each area may have rules and times when hunting is permitted.
- National Forests: Portions of Wayne National Forest allow turkey hunting, subject to federal regulations.
When hunting on public lands, follow all dates, safety, and bag limits regulations.
Public lands can have different restrictions, so being informed is essential.
Private Properties
Hunting on private properties in Ohio requires express permission from the landowner. Here’s what you need to know:
- Written Permission: Always have written permission from the landowner to avoid any legal issues. Many landowners appreciate cooperative hunters who respect their property and may grant access if asked properly.
- Respect the Land: Leave no trace of your visit and follow any specific requests or rules the landowner sets.
Remember, hunting on private property often provides a less crowded experience, but always respect the privilege by following the rules and maintaining a good relationship with the landowners.
Safety and Ethics
Your safety and adherence to ethical hunting standards are paramount during the 2024 spring turkey season in Ohio. These guidelines ensure a responsible and respectful hunting experience for everyone involved.
Hunter Education
Before heading out, ensure you have completed a hunter education course. Ohio law requires that all first-time hunters pass this course before purchasing a hunting license.
This training equips you with essential safety skills, such as handling firearms safely and understanding hunting laws. Courses are available through the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.
Ethical Practices
As a hunter, it is your duty to follow ethical hunting practices. This includes:
- Respect for Wildlife: Harvest only legal game and avoid causing unnecessary suffering to animals.
- Property Consideration: Obtain permission before hunting on private land and leave the area as you found it.
- Fair Chase: Engage in hunting that does not give you an unfair advantage over the turkey.
These practices align with legal regulations, a commitment to conservation, and the principles of fair sportsmanship.
LEGAL WILD TURKEY HUNTING EQUIPMENT
When it comes to hunting wild turkeys, the fall and spring seasons offer unique opportunities for hunters. Knowing the right equipment is key to a successful hunt. Let’s break down what’s necessary:
Shotgun Requirements
For those preferring a shotgun approach, any 10 gauge or smaller shotgun that uses shot, including muzzleloading shotguns, is acceptable.
Bow Hunting Specs
For archery enthusiasts, bows are popular due to their stealth and challenge. Here are the specifications:
- Longbow or Bow: Your bow, whether a compound or recurve, needs a minimum draw weight of 40 pounds. This ensures enough force to harvest the turkey ethically. The arrow tip must have at least two cutting edges, which can be exposed or unexposed, and span a minimum width of 3/4 inches. For those interested, expandable and mechanical broadheads are perfectly fine to use.
- Crossbow: If you prefer to use a crossbow, it must have a minimum draw weight of 75 pounds. Like traditional bows, the arrow tip should have at least two cutting edges and a minimum width of 3/4 inches. And yes, expandable and mechanical broadheads are also allowed.