When Does Turkey Season Start in Ontario?

Are you ready to take on Ontario’s turkey season? If you’re wondering, “When does turkey season start in Ontario?” you’re in the right place. This guide will provide all the key dates, regulations, and tips you need to have a successful and compliant hunting experience. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just starting out, understanding the rules and timing for turkey hunting in Ontario is crucial for planning your adventure.

Spring and Fall Turkey Seasons in Ontario

Ontario has two distinct turkey hunting seasons each year: spring and fall. Each season has unique dates, regulations, and opportunities to hunt wild turkeys in the province. Let’s break down the details for both seasons to help you prepare.

Spring Turkey Season: Key Dates and Information

The spring turkey season in Ontario is highly anticipated by hunters. Here’s a breakdown of everything you need to know:

• Start Date: The spring turkey season in Ontario begins on April 25 and runs through May 31.
• Bag Limit: Hunters can purchase up to two spring wild turkey tags, each valid for one bearded turkey. However, you can only harvest one bearded turkey per day.
• Hunting Hours: Hunting is allowed from half an hour before sunrise until 7:00 p.m. each day.

To help visualize the spring season information, here is a quick summary:

• Wildlife Management Units (WMUs): The spring season is open in WMUs 36, 42, 45, 46, 49-50, 53-65, 66A, 67-82, 83A, 84-95. Hunters should verify the specific regulations in their WMU.

Fall Turkey Season: Key Dates and Information

The fall turkey season provides a different hunting experience and is an excellent opportunity to test your skills.

• Start Date: The fall season starts on October 1 for bow hunting and October 15 for both shotgun and bow.
• End Date: The fall bow hunting season ends on October 31, while the shotgun season ends on October 27.
• Bag Limit: Hunters are allowed one wild turkey of either sex during the fall season.
• Hunting Hours: Hunting is permitted from half an hour before sunrise to half an hour after sunset.

Here’s a summary of the fall season details:

• Wildlife Management Units (WMUs): The fall season is open in WMUs 59, 60, 63, 64, 65, 66A, 67-70, 72-78, 80-82, 84-87, 89-94. Make sure to check specific regulations for each WMU.

Breaking Down the Seasons by Region

Ontario is a vast province, and turkey hunting regulations can vary depending on the region or Wildlife Management Unit (WMU). Below, we break down the turkey hunting seasons by region to help you better plan your hunting trip.

Southern Ontario

• Spring Season: Starts April 25 and ends May 31. The hunting conditions in Southern Ontario are often ideal during the spring, with many turkeys active in agricultural areas.
• Fall Season: Bow hunting begins October 1 and ends October 31. Shotgun and bow hunting start on October 15 and end on October 27. The region is known for its mix of farmland and forest, offering diverse hunting opportunities.

Northern Ontario

• Spring Season: The spring turkey season also begins on April 25 and ends on May 31, but hunters in Northern Ontario may face more challenging weather conditions.
• Fall Season: Bow hunting starts on October 1 and ends on October 31, while shotgun and bow hunting begin on October 15 and end on October 27. The terrain in Northern Ontario is more rugged, which can make turkey hunting more demanding but rewarding.

Central Ontario

• Spring Season: Begins April 25 and runs through May 31. Central Ontario has a mix of woodlands and open fields, making it a popular spot for spring turkey hunting.
• Fall Season: Bow hunting starts on October 1 and ends on October 31. Shotgun and bow hunting start on October 15 and end on October 27. The central region provides a balanced mix of habitat types, ideal for both beginner and experienced hunters.

Licensing and Permit Requirements

To hunt wild turkeys in Ontario, you need specific licenses and permits. Here’s what you need to have before you head into the field:

• Outdoors Card: A valid Outdoors Card is required for all hunters.
• Small Game Licence: This licence allows you to hunt game like wild turkeys.
• Wild Turkey Tag: You must purchase the appropriate tag for either the spring or fall season.
• Firearm Accreditation: If you’re hunting with a firearm, you must provide proof of firearm accreditation.

You can purchase these permits through the Fish and Wildlife Licensing Service, at participating Service Ontario centres, or through authorized license issuers.

Wild Turkey Hunting Regulations

To ensure both safety and compliance, here are some key regulations to keep in mind:

• Firearms and Ammunition: You can use shotguns (including muzzle-loading shotguns) or bows for hunting wild turkeys. Rifles and handguns are not allowed.
• Legal Shot Sizes: You must use shot sizes #4, #5, #6, or #7 for turkey hunting.
• Decoys and Calls: Electronic calls and live decoys are prohibited. Only manual or mouth calls are allowed.
• Baiting: It is illegal to hunt within 400 meters (437 yards) of any place where bait has been deposited unless it has been bait-free for at least seven days.
• Party Hunting: Party hunting is not permitted for wild turkey. Each hunter may only harvest turkeys for which they hold a valid tag.
• Tagging and Reporting: After harvesting a turkey, you must immediately notch the tag with the date and time of the kill and attach it to the bird. Reporting is also mandatory by noon the day after the harvest.
• Hunter Reporting: Hunters must submit a report on their harvest through the hunter reporting requirement section for details on timelines and how to submit your report.

Key Safety Reminders for Wild Turkey Hunting

• Avoid Wearing Red, White, or Blue: These colors can be mistaken for a turkey.
• Make Sure Any Decoy or Harvested Turkey Is Fully Concealed.
• Select Safe Backgrounds: When choosing a spot to hunt, select a background that is wider than your shoulders and taller than the top of your head.
• Use Caution with Calls: Avoid using a gobble call, as it can be unsafe and may attract other hunters.
• Identify Your Target and Beyond: Always be sure of your target and what lies beyond it to avoid accidents.

Tips for a Successful Turkey Hunt

Hunting wild turkeys requires patience and preparation. Here are some essential tips to make your experience successful:

• Scout Early: Visit your hunting area ahead of time to locate feeding areas and potential roosts.
• Gear Preparation: Ensure you have all the essential gear ready, including decoys, calls, camouflage, and safety equipment.
• Learn the Calls: Practice turkey calls to attract gobblers effectively. Different calls like clucks, purrs, and gobbles can be used to lure turkeys in.
• Safety First: Always be sure of your target and what lies beyond it. Consider wearing hunter orange for visibility, especially when moving through the woods.

Why Knowing the Season Dates Matters

Understanding exactly when turkey season starts in Ontario helps you plan for a successful and enjoyable hunt while staying compliant with regulations. It also ensures you are ready to purchase your permits, prepare your gear, and head into the woods on opening day.

Final Thoughts

Turkey hunting in Ontario offers an exciting opportunity to connect with nature, challenge yourself, and contribute to wildlife management efforts. By being well-informed about the start dates, regulations, and safety guidelines, you’re setting yourself up for a safe, successful, and fulfilling hunting season.

To stay updated, make sure you check the latest Ontario Hunting Regulations Summary and reach out to local hunting clubs for tips and support.

Ready to get started? Share your own turkey hunting experiences or ask questions in the comments—we’d love to hear from you!