Also known as: Eastern wild turkey, Rio Grande turkey, Merriam's turkey
The wild turkey is an upland game bird native to North America, one of two extant species of turkey and the heaviest member of the order Galliformes. It is the ancestor to the domestic turkey, which was originally derived from a southern Mexican subspecies of wild turkey.
Hunting Season
Fall: Nov 14 - Dec 13 (1 either sex, 2 per season). Spring General: Mar 27 - May 2, 2027 (1 bearded, 3 per season combined). Spring Archery Only: May 3 - May 16, 2027. Junior Spring: Mar 20-21 and May 3-16.
Frequently Asked Questions
Regulations for hunting Wild Turkey in California
Wild turkey hunting in California offers both spring and fall seasons. The state has three subspecies: Rio Grande (most common), Merriam's (northeastern CA), and Eastern (limited). Upland game bird validation is required. Nonlead ammunition is required. Spring season targets bearded turkeys (typically gobblers) using calls. Fall season allows either-sex harvest. Turkeys have been successfully introduced throughout much of California.
What subspecies of turkey are found in California?
Three subspecies occur in California: Rio Grande turkey (most common and widespread), Merriam's turkey (northeastern California), and Eastern wild turkey (limited distribution in north-coastal areas).
Can you use rifles for turkey hunting in California?
No, rifles and handguns are generally prohibited for turkey hunting. Shotguns with shot sizes no larger than BB are the primary legal method. Archery equipment is also legal during appropriate seasons.
When is Wild Turkey hunting season in California?
Fall: Nov 14 - Dec 13 (1 either sex, 2 per season). Spring General: Mar 27 - May 2, 2027 (1 bearded, 3 per season combined). Spring Archery Only: May 3 - May 16, 2027. Junior Spring: Mar 20-21 and May 3-16.
What is the bag limit for Wild Turkey in California?
Fall: 1 either sex (2 per season). Spring: 1 bearded turkey (3 per season combined). Junior hunters have additional opportunities.
What is another name for Wild Turkey?
Wild Turkey is also known as Eastern wild turkey, Rio Grande turkey, Merriam's turkey in California.
References
| State | Category | Directory | Subcategory | Content | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | Hunting | Regulations | Season Dates | Fall: Nov 14 - Dec 13 (1 either sex, 2 per season). Spring General: Mar 27 - May 2, 2027 (1 bearded, 3 per season combin | Link |
| California | Hunting | Regulations | Regulations | Wild turkey hunting in California offers both spring and fall seasons. The state has three subspecies: Rio Grande (most | Link |
