Statewide Spring Turkey Hunting Takes Off April 18

Youths Offered Preseason Hunting Weekend

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources invites young hunters to kick off the spring turkey season with a statewide Junior Turkey Hunt Day April 15.

The regular spring turkey season for all hunters will run from April 18 through May 23 statewide.

“Wild turkeys are generally abundant throughout most of Maryland so we predict another enjoyable turkey hunting season,” Wildlife and Heritage Service Director Paul Peditto said. “The spring turkey season is an excellent opportunity to introduce youth or other beginners to the sport. Hunting pressure is lower and gobbling activity is higher at this time of year.”

Junior Turkey Hunt Days allow licensed youths age 16 and under to hunt wild turkeys, when accompanied by an unarmed adult (21 and older), who holds a valid Maryland hunting license. Adults may not possess a bow, crossbow, air gun or firearm while accompanying a youth.

The daily bag limit for the spring season is one bearded turkey with a season bag limit of two bearded turkeys. Hunting hours are:

• April 15-16 (Junior Turkey Hunt): Half-hour before sunrise to sunset; youth hunting is allowed April 16 in select counties.
• April 18-May 9: Half-hour before sunrise to noon; and
• May 10-23: Half-hour before sunrise to sunset.

Complete season dates, regulations and check-in procedures are located here.