Discover the thrill and sustainability of hunting this spring.
 One of the most exhilarating aspects of the spring season is the start of turkey hunting at the end of April. Wild turkey hunting season is a great time to get outside and experience the beauty that Maine has to offer. This is an excellent opportunity for beginners or experienced hunters to connect with nature on a deeper level and be closer to your food source. Imagine a heightened sense of awareness surrounded by the sights and sounds of the great outdoors as you patiently wait for the perfect moment to harvest your own sustainably sourced protein.
There is also a great sense of accomplishment when you harvest a bird. It's empowering to know that you put in the work and it's paid off. Turkey hunting is for everyone, and we have the resources to make this happen for you.
The Youth Spring Wild Turkey Hunting Day kicks off the season on Saturday, April 26. Junior hunters who hold a valid junior hunting license (including a lifetime license) can participate in special youth hunting days for spring and fall wild turkey, as well as deer, bear, and migratory waterfowl during the corresponding seasons. This is a great opportunity to mentor a young hunter during turkey season and teach them about about wildlife conservation.
The season then opens to all hunters Monday, April 28 - Saturday, May 31. Before heading afield, be sure to pair your hunting license with a turkey hunting permit.
Taking a Hunter Safety course is the first step to enjoying spring turkey season. Find a hunter safety course near you and start your journey this spring. Hunter safety can also be taken online on your schedule. If you've already completed hunter safety, consider encouraging a friend or family member to sign up!
Whether you've already completed hunter safety or you want to learn more about turkey hunting first, a Next Steps workshop is a great way to get hands on experience and a deeper understanding about what hunting a turkey is like. Learn how to find a location, set decoys, call a turkey, pattern a shotgun, and more! These workshops are a safe space for people to learn and ask any questions.
Asking someone you know who hunts to take you out can be a great way to get experience and learn a lot! Many hunters are willing to share their love of hunting and start someone new on the path of sustainable harvest and adventure.
If you're not sure where to start, Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife teamed up with International Hunter Education Association U.S.A (IHEA) to create learnhunting.org. This mentorship program connects new hunters with experienced hunters, allowing them to learn hunting while establishing relationships within the hunting community. Search the instructor map to find a mentor and have all your hunting questions answered. Find a mentor today to get ready for hunting season and continue your hunting journey!
Another option is to support a local small business by hiring a registered Maine guide. Registered Maine guides are experienced hunters willing to show you the ropes and create a memorable hunting experience.
Wild turkeys are abundant and there is lots of opportunity throughout the state, making it easier to find a location close to home.
Maine has over 17 million acres of extraordinary land available to hunters. When it comes to finding where you want to hunt, you have two options: public land and private land.
MDIFW manages over 110,000 acres throughout the state, called Wildlife Management Areas. All MDIFW-owned Wildlife Management Areas (WMA), except Steve Powell WMA (Swan Island) and portions of Steep Falls and Killick Pond WMA, are open for general-law hunting and trapping. Find a WMA near you.
If looking to hunt on private land, always ask for permission. Learn more about hunting on private land.
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Looking for a tasty recipe? From a successful hunt to a satisfying meal, enjoy the full experience with these delicious recipes. Try a wild turkey burger topped with bacon, fresh dill, and a secret sauce. Other delicious recipes to try include wild turkey lumpia and wild turkey sobaheg stew. Savor the reward of your hard work and bring out the best of your sustainably sourced protein.
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