With the arrival of autumn, hunters eagerly anticipate the onset of fall turkey hunting season. The transition from the scorching summer months to the cooler, crisper air of fall sets the stage for a timeless pursuit of the elusive wild turkey. This annual tradition offers hunters not only a thrilling challenge but also a unique connection to the natural world. If you want to participate this year but find yourself wondering, “When does the turkey season start?” don’t worry — we have you covered.

The Allure of Fall Turkey Hunting

Fall turkey hunting is a cherished tradition for many, offering a distinct experience from its spring counterpart. While spring hunting is typically focused on gobblers and their courtship rituals, fall toms don’t gobble nearly as frequently. This presents a unique challenge for hunters as they navigate the complexities of different turkey behaviors during the mating and non-mating seasons.

The fall season also appeals to those who appreciate the serene beauty of the outdoors during autumn. The landscape transforms into a canvas of red, gold, and orange hues, creating a picturesque backdrop for the hunt. The crackling leaves underfoot and the cool, crisp air further enhance the experience, making it more than just a hunt: It’s a sensory journey through the season’s beauty.

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Once you’ve decided you want to take on this exciting challenge in the beautiful serenity of the Autumn outdoors, the next step is to learn when turkey hunting season starts in your state.

When Does The Turkey Season Start?

Alabama

FALL SEASON DATES: Zone 3 only; Nov. 18-26 and Dec. 9-31, 2023
BAG LIMITS: Annual – 4 (Gobblers only; no decoys)
DOGS ALLOWED? No

Indiana

FALL SEASON DATES: Archery Dec. 2, 2023, to Jan. 7, 2024; firearms Oct. 18-29 in select counties (check regulations)
BAG LIMITS: 1 either sex; Annual – 2
DOGS ALLOWED? No

Maine

FALL SEASON DATES: Regular Season Sept. 18 – Nov. 7.
YOUTH FALL SEASON DATES: Sept. 16 – 1 Day
BAG LIMITS: 5, Annual – 7 (check regulations)
DOGS ALLOWED? Yes

Missouri

FALL SEASON DATES: Archery: Sept. 15 – Jan. 15 – 122 Days; Shotgun: Oct. 1– Oct. 31 – 31 Days
BAG LIMITS: 4, Annual – 6
DOGS ALLOWED? No

Nebraska

FALL SEASON DATES: Oct. 1 – Nov. 30, 2023 (61 days)
YOUTH FALL SEASON DATES:  Oct. 1 – Nov. 30, 2023 (61 days)
BAG LIMITS: 1, Annual – 3
DOGS ALLOWED? Yes

Ohio

FALL SEASON DATES: Oct. 12 – Nov. 12 (31 days)
BAG LIMITS: 1, Annual – 3
DOGS ALLOWED? Yes

Pennsylvania

FALL SEASON DATES: Check regulations
BAG LIMITS: 3 annual
DOGS ALLOWED? Yes

Texas

FALL SEASON DATES: Rio Grande Turkey: North Zone – Nov. 5 to Jan. 1, South Zone – Nov. 5 – Jan. 15, Brooks, Kenedy, Kleberg and Willacy counties – Nov. 5 – Feb. 26; Archery-only – Oct. 1 to Nov. 4 No Eastern wild turkey fall season
BAG LIMITS: 4 (check regulations for restrictions)
DOGS ALLOWED? Yes

Virginia

FALL SEASON DATES: Multiple start dates per zone. First date of the season Oct. 7 – up to 79 days depending on county
YOUTH FALL SEASON DATES: Oct. 14 – 2 Days
BAG LIMITS: 2 (one per day), Annual – 3
DOGS ALLOWED? Yes, except dogs may not be used when hunting with archery tackle during the archery season

West Virginia

FALL SEASON DATES: Oct. 14 and Nov. 19 (Some counties only have 1st season, some have 1st and shortened 2nd season). 1st season – 9 Days; 2nd season – 7 or 21 Days; Total – 30 Days
BAG LIMITS: Only 1 either sex turkey may be taken during the fall hunting season with a bow, crossbow or firearm, Annual – 3
DOGS ALLOWED? Yes

Wisconsin

FALL SEASON DATES: Zones 1-5 – Sept. 16 to Jan. 7 (114 days); Zones 6-7 – Sept. 16 to Nov. 17 (62 days)
BAG LIMITS: Varies, Annual – Varies
DOGS ALLOWED? Yes

So, when does the turkey season start in other states? Check out this list on the National Wild Turkey Federation’s website to learn the start dates for states we didn’t mention here, and happy hunting!

Now that you’ve answered the question, “When does the turkey season start?” You can read more about fall turkey hunting on iSportsmanUSA.