Gearing Up for Turkey Season in Maine

As a dedicated hunter and outdoor enthusiast living in Maine, I always look forward to turkey season each spring. Hunting wild turkey is such a fun challenge and a great way to spend time outdoors. If you’re new to turkey hunting in Maine you likely have questions about exactly when the season starts, rules and regulations and how to tag your bird. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll cover everything you need to know to prepare for a successful turkey season.

When Does Turkey Season Start in Maine?

The timing of Maine’s spring turkey season changes slightly every year. But generally, it runs for the entire month of May. According to the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife (IFW), the 2024 spring turkey season will open on April 28 and close on May 31.

Hunters are allowed to harvest birds only within this defined period. The season is closed outside of these dates. There is also a designated Youth Spring Turkey Hunting Day on April 26, two days before the regular season opens. This allows youth under 16 years old to hunt with an adult mentor.

Maine also has a fall turkey season, which runs from September 16 through November 7 annually. The fall season has more variable dates and bag limits depending on the Wildlife Management District (WMD). So be sure to consult the IFW guide for specifics on your zone.

Spring Turkey Hunting Regulations

When hunting turkey in Maine, be sure you understand and follow all the rules and regs:

• Purchase a combination spring/fall turkey permit, as well as a big or small game hunting license These are required to legally hunt turkeys

• Know the bag limits for your WMD. Most zones allow up to 2 bearded turkeys in spring. But some are limited to just 1 bird.

• Legal hunting hours are from half hour before sunrise to half hour after sunset.

• Use of bait and electronic calling devices are allowed. Dogs are prohibited in spring.

• Turkeys may be called using mouth or hand calls. Be sure to set up with adequate visibility and cover.

• Hunters age 10 and up can use shotguns with #4 through #6 or #7 shot. Archery equipment is also permitted.

• All harvested turkeys must be registered either online or in person by the end of the day. Attach the provided tag.

Following the rules ensures an ethical, legal hunt. Consult the IFW website for a full list of spring turkey hunting laws.

How to Register Your Turkey

A unique requirement for turkey hunting in Maine is that all successful birds must be registered. This allows IFW to closely monitor populations and harvest rates.

You have two options for turkey registration:

Online registration – Register your turkey through IFW’s online system. You’ll need to create an account, provide details like the date and WMD, and attach an image of your turkey tag.

In-person registration – Bring your intact turkey carcass to an IFW office or registered tagging station. Staff will affix a seal and give you a registration confirmation.

No matter which method you choose, registration must be completed by midnight on the day you harvest your bird. Fill out the provided tag with your name, address, and license number. Attach it to the turkey’s leg before registering.

Tips for a Successful Turkey Hunt

With opening day just around the corner, here are some tips to make the most of your spring turkey season:

• Scout ahead of time – Spend time before season scouting birds in your hunting spots. Locate roosting areas, feeding grounds, and travel corridors.

• Use decoys and calls – Set up hen decoys and use turkey calls to draw in warring toms looking to breed. Practice calling techniques beforehand.

• Be patient and still – Turkeys have incredible vision. Stay hidden, move slowly, and sit quietly once set up. Let the birds come to you.

• Aim carefully – Wait for clear broadside shots at the turkey’s vitals. Pattern your shotgun and know your effective range.

• Consider an online hunting course – Take a turkey hunting education course for tactics, safety tips, and marksmanship.

Gearing Up for Opening Day

When preparing for turkey season, be sure you have the proper hunting gear and equipment:

• Turkey vest – Opt for a specialized vest with pockets and clips for calls, ammo, and other accessories.

• Camo clothing – Dress in camouflage clothing from head to toe to blend into the landscape. Face masks and gloves are a good choice.

• Calls – Carry an assortment of friction, box, and mouth calls to mimic hen and gobbler sounds. Practice these ahead of time.

• Decoys – Set up good quality, realistic hen or jake decoys to draw in toms during the hunt.

• Ammo – Use the appropriate shells and shot size for your shotgun, typically #4 through #6 birdshot. Pattern your gun at the range.

• Knife and tag – Bring a sharp knife for field dressing and your printed turkey tag to properly tag your harvested bird.

• Bug spray and sunscreen – Don’t forget essentials like bug repellent and sunscreen for long days in the field.

Ready for Opening Day

2024-2025 Wild Turkey Seasons and Bag Limits