If you’re an experienced turkey hunter, you already know which states offer the best turkey hunting. The issue for many is the fact that almost too many states offer a great turkey hunting experience. For the most part, the best place to hunt turkeys can vary from year to year as conditions change. However, there are always a few states that rise to the top and that’s exactly what we’re going to discuss.
This year, there are seven states that are especially good for turkey hunting. We’ll be taking a closer look at each state that made the list.
What are the best states to hunt turkeys in? This is an important question many turkey hunters are asking There are many factors that go into this decision, such as terrain, weather conditions, etc.
This article will cover the best states to hunt turkeys in based on the stories of experienced hunters, as well as nationwide data. Turkey hunters can use this information to help them decide which states to travel to for their upcoming hunt.
Fun Fact: According to the National Wild Turkey Federation, the turkey population is doing well in most states.
Things to Remember With The Best Turkey Hunting States…
– The best states vary from hunting season to hunting season, so it’s important to do your research before you go out.
– There are many factors that go into deciding where to hunt turkeys, such as the type of terrain, weather, population density, ease of access, etc.
– Some of the best states for turkey hunting this year include Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Virginia.
– Turkey hunting is a great way to spend time outdoors with friends or family, and turkeys offer an exciting hunting experience.
– Be sure to check the hunting laws and hunting regulations in each state before you go turkey hunting, so you know what you can and can’t do.
Here are 7 states that offer the best turkey hunting opportunities for experienced hunters.
1. Ohio
2021 Harvest Data – 14,546 Turkeys
Ohio is a great state for turkey hunting. The terrain is perfect – not too hilly and with plenty of trees and underbrush for the turkeys to hide in. Plus, the state has a good turkey population. Every spring, hunters flock to Ohio in hopes of getting a gobbler, and they are usually successful.
If you’re looking for a good place to hunt turkeys, Ohio is definitely worth considering.
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2. Pennsylvania
2021 Harvest Data – 28,087 Turkeys
Pennsylvania is a popular state for hunting, due in part to its large turkey population. The state has a variety of terrain to choose from, including forests, mountains, and fields. And with over 3 million acres of public land open to hunting, there’s plenty of room for everyone.
Turkey hunting is a popular activity in Pennsylvania, as the state is home to several subspecies of the bird. The most common are the Eastern wild turkey.
Hunting season typically runs from April to May, but it can vary depending on the subspecies and the region of the state. Additionally, there’s a special season for eligible junior hunters that starts about a week earlier than the standard dates.
Pennsylvania is a great place to hunt turkeys, whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just starting out. With its large population of birds and diverse array of terrain, the state has something to offer everyone.
3. Virginia
2021 Harvest Data – 20,541 Turkeys
As any hunter knows, turkey hunting is an exciting and challenging sport. Whether you are stalking a wary tom in the deep woods or quietly sneaking up on a clucking flock in a grassy meadow, there is nothing quite like the thrill of chasing these noble birds through the woods.
Virginia makes for an ideal hunting destination with its diverse wildlife and varied terrain. With its dense forests, wide river valleys, Appalachian Mountain peaks, rolling fields and steep rocky hillsides, Virginia offers hunters of all skill levels many great spots to pursue their prey.
As such, it is no surprise that Virginia is home to one of the largest turkey populations in the country! So, if you want to experience the challenge and excitement of turkey hunting at its finest, head to Virginia – a truly great place for bird-watchers of all kinds.
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4. Missouri
2021 Harvest Data – 34,595 Turkeys
Missouri is a great state for turkey hunting. The population is large, and the terrain is varied, making it easy to find good hunting spots. The Ozarks offer a challenge for hunters, with their steep hills and thick forests. The plains are also home to a large population of turkeys, and the open terrain makes it easy to spot the birds.
In addition, Missouri has many public hunting areas, which provide access to a variety of different habitats. As a result, hunters of all experience levels can find a place to hunt in Missouri that suits their needs.
5. Kentucky
2021 Harvest Data – 29,223 Turkeys
Kentucky is a beautiful state with a diverse landscape that provides ample opportunity for hunting turkeys. The state has a large turkey population, and the birds can be found in a variety of habitats, from open fields to dense forests. In addition, the state’s mild climate means that turkeys can be hunted year-round.
Whether you’re an experienced hunter looking for a challenging hunt, or a novice just getting started, Kentucky has something to offer. So, grab your shotgun and head to the Bluegrass State for an unforgettable hunting experience.
Fun Fact: New research shows that production, not predation, drives turkey populations.
6. Arkansas
2021 Harvest Data – 7,013 Turkeys
As anyone who has spent time in Arkansas knows, this state is home to a thriving turkey population. The varied terrain and forested areas provide a perfect habitat for these game birds, and their numbers are constantly growing. Additionally, in Arkansas it is easy to find the perfect spot for hunting thanks to the many scenic areas and expansive wilderness regions.
Whether you prefer high elevation mountains or dense woodlands, there is something for everyone here. And with so many turkeys roaming the landscape, it is no surprise that this state has become one of the top destinations for avid turkey hunters across the country. So, if you’re looking to bag your next trophy bird, pack your gear and head to Arkansas – you won’t be disappointed.
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7. Tennessee
2021 Harvest Data – 53,669 Turkeys
If you’re a turkey hunting nut, then Tennessee is the place for you. With its vast expanses of open farmland and dense forests, this state offers prime hunting grounds for all sorts of different game animals. Perhaps most famous of all is the state’s turkey population, which is one of the largest in the country.
In addition to plenty of turkeys, the state offers abundant deer and elk populations in many areas, as well as smaller game animals like rabbits and squirrels. And with its varied terrain and diverse terrain features, Tennessee makes it easy to find just the right spot for your next hunt.
So, whether you’re an experienced hunter or a newbie looking to bag your first prize, this great state has exactly what you need. So, gear up, pick your spot, and get ready – adventure lies just around the corner in Tennessee!
Something to Remember While Turkey Hunting…
If you’re looking for the best turkey hunting, then head to Missouri. The state has a large population of turkeys, and the terrain is varied, making it easy to find good hunting spots. In addition, Missouri has many public hunting areas, which provide access to a variety of different habitats. As a result, hunters of all experience levels can find a place to hunt in Missouri that suits their needs. Kentucky is also a great state for turkey hunting, with a large turkey population and diverse landscape that provides ample opportunity for successful hunts. And if you’re looking for a challenging hunt, Arkansas is the perfect place, with its dense forests and thriving turkey population. So, grab your shotgun and head to one of these great states for an unforgettable hunting experience.
Fun Fact: Turkeys have over 28 distinct calls.
In Conclusion
So, what do all of these states have in common? They are all great destinations for turkey hunters. Each state has a large population of turkeys, and the terrain is varied, making it easy to find good hunting spots. In addition, each state offers ample opportunity for successful hunts, with plenty of public hunting areas and diverse landscapes. If you’re looking for the best turkey hunting, then head to one of these great states for an unforgettable experience.
Don’t Forget…
Share this story to your social media to help inform your friends and family about the best states for turkey hunting. By doing so, you can help them plan their next hunting trip and ensure that they have the best possible experience.
Harvest data gathered from the NWTF Spring Hunt Guide.
Additionally, check out our other blog comparing the Best Duck Hunting States as well!
