Don’t miss the chance to hunt wild turkey this spring

With spring turkey season right around the corner, the Department of Natural Resources reminds hunters who haven’t purchased a license yet that spring turkey licenses are still available.

spring turkey video thumbnail“Michigan has been ranked in the top 10 in the nation for turkey harvest on an annual basis by the National Wild Turkey Federation,” said Al Stewart, DNR upland game bird specialist. “The DNR’s goal for the spring turkey season is to maximize hunting opportunities and maintain satisfactory hunting experiences. Over the years, Michigan has consistently exceeded turkey hunter satisfaction goals.”

Spring turkey hunters may purchase a Hunt 234 license throughout the entire spring turkey season (through May 31). Hunt 234 is a statewide license valid for all open areas except public lands in Unit ZZ (southern Lower Peninsula). Turkey hunters also have the option to purchase a leftover license for units where licenses are still available. Hunt 301 in Unit ZZ is another great option, with many leftover licenses that can be purchased over the counter.  For a list of available licenses, go to www.michigan.gov/huntdrawings.

Licenses will be sold until quotas are met. It is unlawful to obtain or purchase more than one spring turkey hunting license. Those hunting on private land should receive permission to hunt before purchasing a private-land-only license.

Before purchasing a spring turkey license, hunters will need to purchase a 2015-2016 base license. The base license, which also serves as a small game license, costs $11 for Michigan residents, $6 for youth and $5 for seniors.

Spring turkey licenses are available to Michigan residents for $15, while seniors can purchase a spring turkey license for $6. To purchase a license, go to www.mdnr-elicense.com or visit any license agent.

Youth hunters 9 years old and younger also can participate in the spring turkey season through the Mentored Youth Hunting Program. The mentored youth hunting license is $7.50 and entitles the youth hunter to hunt turkey during the spring and fall seasons in any open hunt period or location, on either private or public land. This license gives mentored youth opportunities for small game, deer (one tag, any deer), furbearer and fish (all species) during the appropriate seasons. Please go to www.michigan.gov/mentoredhunting for mentor requirements and information.

For more information about spring turkey hunting, visit www.michigan.gov/turkey.