Also known as: Eastern wild turkey
A wild turkey is a heavy North American gamebird.
Wild Turkey may also refer to:
Wild Turkey (bourbon), a brand of whiskey
Wild Turkey (band), a 1970s rock band formed by former Jethro Tull bassist Glenn Cornick and Gentle Giant drummer John Weathers
The act of rolling six consecutive strikes (bowling)
Hunting Season
Spring Gobbler Season (Period Y): Apr 18 - May 22, 2026. Periods A-E for adults: Apr 20 - May 22, 2026. Youth Turkey Day: Apr 18, 2026. Fall Either-Sex Turkey Season: CLOSED statewide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Regulations for hunting Wild Turkey in New Jersey
New Jersey's spring wild turkey season runs from mid-April through May across 22 Turkey Hunting Areas (THAs). Hunters need a valid hunting license and turkey permit. Hunting hours vary by period: 1/2 hour before sunrise to noon (early periods) or sunset (late periods). Shotguns (20-10 gauge, #4-#7.5 shot) or bows (35+ lbs draw) are allowed. Stalking, fanning/reaping with hand-held decoys, and electronic calls are prohibited. Maximum group size is 5 hunters.
Is the fall turkey season open in New Jersey?
No. The Fall Either-Sex Turkey Season is CLOSED statewide in New Jersey. Only the spring gobbler season is open.
What is fanning or reaping and is it legal in New Jersey?
Fanning or reaping is the practice of using a hand-held turkey decoy or tail fan as camouflage while approaching turkeys. This practice is PROHIBITED in New Jersey.
When is Wild Turkey hunting season in New Jersey?
Spring Gobbler Season (Period Y): Apr 18 - May 22, 2026. Periods A-E for adults: Apr 20 - May 22, 2026. Youth Turkey Day: Apr 18, 2026. Fall Either-Sex Turkey Season: CLOSED statewide.
What is the bag limit for Wild Turkey in New Jersey?
1 male (gobbler) turkey per permit per day. Only one turkey may be taken per day regardless of permits held. Bearded hens may not be taken.
What is another name for Wild Turkey?
Wild Turkey is also known as Eastern wild turkey in New Jersey.
References
| State | Category | Directory | Subcategory | Content | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Jersey | Upland Game Birds | Regulations | Season Dates | Spring Gobbler Season (Period Y): Apr 18 - May 22, 2026. Periods A-E for adults: Apr 20 - May 22, 2026. Youth Turkey Day | Link |
| New Jersey | Upland Game Birds | Regulations | Regulations | New Jersey's spring wild turkey season runs from mid-April through May across 22 Turkey Hunting Areas (THAs). Hunters ne | Link |
