Experience the Fun of Turkey Shoots in Northern Kentucky

For years, turkey shoots have been a beloved tradition and popular recreational pastime throughout Northern Kentucky. These events offer a fun and social way to enjoy shotgun shooting sports during the fall months leading up to Thanksgiving. Today, enthusiasts can find a variety of turkey shoots hosted by clubs and organizations across the northern part of the state.

What is a Turkey Shoot?

A turkey shoot is a shotgun shooting competition typically held in autumn. Participants take aim at paper targets from around 30 yards away using shotguns loaded with birdshot shells. Prizes like whole turkeys, hams, or bacon are awarded to those who hit the small bullseye or come closest to it. Beyond the shooting, turkey shoots feature raffles, socializing, and good old-fashioned family fun.

Turkey Shoot Season in Northern Kentucky

In Northern Kentucky, turkey shoots take place on weekends from September through November. The shoots draw crowds who come for friendly competition to win tasty prizes and experience the camaraderie. Shoots often serve food like chili, soup beans, and hotdogs to hungry marksmen. Proceeds from most events go to charity or fundraising for local clubs.

Popular locations for turkey shoots include rod and gun clubs sportsmen’s clubs, volunteer fire departments and American Legions. Clubs may host multiple shoots throughout the fall, some holding shoots every weekend during peak season.

What to Expect at a Turkey Shoot

Attending a turkey shoot is an accessible and engaging experience even for those new to shotgun sports. Here’s a quick rundown of what to expect:

• Sign-up and Payment – Pay a small fee, usually $3-7, to enter. This buys you a round of shooting.

• Shooting Round – Each round has about 15 shooters. You’ll receive a 12-gauge shotgun shell loaded with size 7.5 birdshot.

• Shooting Position – Shooters take turns firing from an assigned yardage at paper targets mounted on hay bales.

• Scoring – Judges examine targets to see who hit the bullseye or got closest to it. Top scorers win turkeys, hams, bacon, or cash.

• Extra Chances – Purchase raffle tickets and play scatterboard games to win more prizes.

• Food and Drinks – Most shoots have refreshments and homecooked food for purchase.

Top Turkey Shoots in Northern Kentucky

Here are some of the most popular turkey shoots to check out across Northern Kentucky:

• Moonlite Hunting & Fishing Club – Hosts shoots on Sundays in Burlington. Offers still target, trap shooting, raffles, and food.

• Kenton County Game & Fish – Shoots held on Sundays October through November in Morning View. Family-friendly event.

• Campbell County Game & Fish – Hosts multiple events every Sunday in Alexandria. Big shoots with lots of prize options.

• Bob White Club – This club in Boone County hosts turkey shoots on Saturdays and Sundays in November.

• Dixie Gun & Fish Club– Located in Walton, they host shoots on Saturdays from September to November.

Turkey Shoot Safety and Etiquette

Turkey shoots prioritize safety and sportsmanship. Judges inspect firearms before each round. Drugs and alcohol are prohibited. Good etiquette means waiting for your turn and not interfering with other shooters. Most shoots implement rules like:

• Eye and ear protection required
• Guns must be 12 gauge with a 36″ max barrel
• Only 7.5 birdshot shells permitted
• No sabotaging other shooters
• Abide by judges’ decisions

An Enjoyable Autumn Tradition

For old timers and newbies alike, fall turkey shoots offer fun competition and camaraderie you won’t find anywhere else. They represent tradition and community, with generations of families attending the same local shoots each year. For a quintessential autumn experience and a chance to win some turkey or bacon before Thanksgiving, be sure to check out a turkey shoot next time you’re up in Northern Kentucky!