Fall Turkey Season Opens in Western Maryland

Hunting Limited to Allegany, Garrett and Washington Counties

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources announced today that the Fall Turkey Hunting Season will open Oct. 29 and continue through Nov. 5 in Allegany, Garrett and Washington counties with a bag limit of one turkey per hunter.

The 2016 Wild Turkey Observation Survey Summary shows reproduction was below average in western Maryland, which may make hunting slightly more challenging this fall.

“Acorn production was high in Garrett County but below average in Allegany and Washington,” said Wildlife and Heritage Service Director Paul Peditto. “Turkeys tend to frequent fields more often and are more visible when acorns are scarce. Conversely, scouting oak forests for signs of fall turkey flocks can be the key to success in areas where the acorn crop is good.”

Although not required, fall turkey hunters are encouraged to wear fluorescent orange clothing as other hunting seasons are open.

Complete hunting regulations, check-in procedures and information on public land hunting can be found in the 2016-2017 Guide to Hunting and Trapping in Maryland.