For turkey hunting enthusiasts in the state of Kansas, the annual spring and fall turkey seasons are highly anticipated. Kansas offers excellent turkey hunting opportunities, with a healthy and widespread wild turkey population across public and private lands. This allows for ample chances to bag a tom or jake each season.
In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about Kansas turkey hunting seasons, including dates for spring and fall seasons, required licenses and permits, bag limits, legal hunting methods and more.
Overview of Turkey Season Dates in Kansas
The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) regulates turkey hunting seasons in the state. Here is a quick overview of typical spring and fall turkey dates:
Spring Turkey Season
- Youth Season: First full weekend in April
- Archery Season: 2-3 weeks in April
- Regular Firearms Season: Mid April to end of May
Fall Turkey Season:
- Typically 4-5 weekend dates in April
The spring season is most popular, with longer seasons for archery, youth and regular firearms hunting. The fall turkey season is currently suspended in Kansas due to declining turkey populations.
Keep reading for more details on spring and fall season dates, as they do vary year to year.
When is Spring Turkey Season in Kansas?
The spring turkey season takes place annually in April and May. It is divided into separate segments for youth, archers and regular firearms hunters.
Here are the typical spring turkey seasons and dates
Youth Season
- Early to mid April, typically the first full weekend
- 2 day season for youth 15 and under when accompanied by an adult
- Allows youth to hunt before the regular seasons begin
Archery Season
- Starts 1-2 weeks after the youth season opens
- Runs for 2-3 weeks in April
- Archery equipment like bows and crossbows only
Regular Firearms Season
- Starts mid to late April after archery season closes
- Runs approximately 6-7 weeks until end of May
- Permits shotguns, muzzleloaders, handguns and archery equipment
The spring turkey dates do shift annually, so be sure to check the KDWP website each year for updated spring turkey season dates and details. You can also find a printout of seasons at license vendors.
When is Fall Turkey Season in Kansas?
In recent years, Kansas has suspended the fall turkey hunting season due to declining bird numbers. Prior to the suspension, the fall turkey season took place for a limited number of days in October.
Here is some information on typical fall turkey seasons when they are active:
- Season lasts 4-5 weekends in October
- Specific number of permits issued in each hunting unit
- Only shotguns and archery legal, no centerfire rifles
- 1 turkey of either sex per permit
The KDWP monitors wild turkey populations annually and decides each year whether to reinstate a fall hunting season. As of 2023, the fall turkey season remains closed.
Hunters hoping for a fall season to return should check the KDWP hunting regulations each summer. Any reopening of the fall season will be announced well in advance.
Kansas Turkey Hunting Licenses and Permits
To hunt turkeys in Kansas, hunters need both a hunting license and a turkey permit. Here are the license and permit requirements:
Hunting License
- Required for all hunters ages 16-74, residents and nonresidents
- Valid 1 Apr to 31 Mar of the following year
- Exemptions for certain youth, seniors, tenants, and landowners
Spring Turkey Permit
- Required for all turkey hunters in spring season
- Sold over the counter or through limited draw lottery
- Valid for specific units and seasons
- Allows 1 bearded turkey during spring
Fall Turkey Permit
- Required for fall turkey hunting (when season is active)
- Limited number sold based on unit
- Allows 1 turkey of either sex in fall
Be sure to consult the KDWP regulations for current license and permit fees. Some discounts are available for youth under 16.
Kansas Turkey Hunting Season Bag Limits
Turkey hunters in Kansas must adhere to the following bag limits once they have the required licenses and permits:
Spring Season
- 1 bearded turkey statewide
- All hunters may harvest 1 bearded turkey in spring
- No restriction on total number of permits sold
Fall Season
- 1 turkey either sex per permit (when season is active)
- Number of permits capped based on unit
- Allows additional harvest opportunity in fall
The spring season bag limit allows hunters ample opportunity to harvest a tom turkey. The fall bag limit is restricted by limited permits to control impact on populations.
Legal Hunting Methods for Turkey Seasons
Turkey hunters in Kansas may use the following methods to hunt wild turkeys:
- Shotguns – common gauge sizes include 12, 16, 20
- Archery equipment – bows, crossbows
- Muzzleloaders – .40 caliber or larger
- Handguns – centerfire revolvers and pistols
- Game calls – mouth, slate, box calls to attract birds
- Decoys – try realistic hen or jake decoys
Using turkey calls and decoys takes skill but can be highly effective. Blinds and camo clothing also help hunters conceal themselves.
Baiting turkeys and using electronic calls are prohibited. Be sure to review all Kansas turkey hunting regulations before going afield.
Where to Hunt Wild Turkeys in Kansas
Kansas has excellent turkey habitat spanning prairies, forested hills and river bottoms. Here are some of the best public land areas:
- Fort Riley Military Reservation
- Flint Hills and Tallgrass Prairie Preserves
- Quivira National Wildlife Refuge
- Marais des Cygnes Wildlife Management Area
- Elk City State Park & Wildlife Area
- Melvern-Pomona State Park & Wildlife Area
Contact land managers to find out permit requirements and availability for public lands. Scouting areas ahead of season will also improve success.
Private lands with a mix of habitat types and food sources also hold good numbers of turkeys. Gaining access to hunt private property takes seeking out landowner permissions in advance.
Turkey Hunting Safety Tips
Turkey hunting with firearms, archery and other methods does pose risks. Here are some key safety tips:
- Always identify your target and what’s beyond it
- Use a tree stand or blind to conceal yourself
- Never stalk a turkey or approach one that seems agitated
- Always let someone know where you will be hunting
- Use orange if moving between hunting spots
- Unload firearms when traversing obstacles
- Never wear red, white or blue clothing while hunting
Following basic safety rules and hunter education guidelines will lead to an enjoyable turkey season.
Consult Kansas Turkey Hunting Regulations
This guide provides a general overview of Kansas turkey hunting seasons and rules. Always refer to the KDWP turkey hunting regulations before each season for complete details on:
- Exact season dates for upcoming year
- Unit maps and boundaries
- License and permit requirements
- Legal hunting methods and equipment
- Bag limits and permits
- Safety rules and hunter education
- And more!
With smart preparation using the latest regulations, you will be ready when spring gobbler season arrives in Kansas. Consider applying for limited draw fall permits if that season reopens. Good luck this year bagging your spring longbeard!
Lottery Draw: Unit 4 Spring Turkey Permits
Unit 4 spring turkey permit applications will be accepted online only from 01/09/24 â 02/09/24. There are no paper applications or mail in forms.
To apply for a 2024 spring turkey permit in Unit 4:
- Visit www.gooutdoorskansas.com between the dates of 01/09/24 â 02/09/24.
- Select âPurchase Licenses, Permits, & Tagsâ
- Login to your account
- Select âLimited Draw Applicationsâ
NOTE:
- Unit 4 spring turkey permits are only available for hunters who qualify as a “resident” or “non-resident tenant.”
- A total of 375 spring turkey permits are available for Unit 4.
- Kansas youth may purchase a youth spring turkey permit valid statewide for $7.50
UNIT 4 SPRING TURKEY APPLICATION FEES (internet convenience fee not included):
- Resident: $32.50
- Resident Landowner/Resident Tenant: $20.00
- Non-resident Tenant: $37.50
- Preference Point Only: $7.50
There is a $7.50 nonrefundable application fee. Unsuccessful applicants will be issued a preference point. If you do not want to apply for a permit and want to purchase a preference point only, you may do so online by selecting Spring Turkey Preference Point Application. Only one point may be obtained per year.
Lottery Draw: Non-resident Spring Turkey Permits
Beginning in 2024, non-resident spring turkey permits will be available only by lottery draw. The application period is 01/09/24 â 02/09/24. There are no paper applications or mail in forms. Non-resident permits are only valid in a single Unit. Non-resident hunters may apply for a spring turkey permit in Unit 1, 2, 3, 5, or 6. Any leftover non-resident spring turkey permits will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
To apply for a 2024 non-resident turkey permit in Unit 1, 2, 3, 5, or 6:
- Visit www.gooutdoorskansas.com between the dates of 01/09/24 â 02/09/24.
- Select âPurchase Licenses, Permits, & Tagsâ
- Login to your account
- Select âLimited Draw Applicationsâ
NOTE: Hunters who qualify as a “resident” or “non-resident tenant” may still purchase a spring turkey permit in Unit 1, 2, 3, 5, or 6 either over the counter or online.
- Non-resident Spring Turkey Permit Application Fee: $10.00 (plus internet convenience fee)
- Non-resident Spring Turkey Permit: $75.00 (plus internet convenience fee)
Whitetail Edge Kansas Birds: Edge of Turkey Season 2018
FAQ
What day does turkey season start in Kansas?
The Fall General Turkey Season runs from October 1st through November 10th, followed by a Spring Youth & Disabled season starting from April 1st and ending on …
Is turkey hunting good in Kansas?
Fortunately, Kansas is home to some of the best turkey hunting in the nation. Here, you’ll find a flock that’s about 300,000 strong. Two different species culminate to create it, including Rio Grande turkeys in western counties, Eastern turkeys in eastern counties, and hybrid birds in the central part of the state.
How much does a turkey tag cost in Kansas?
| Resident hunting license (valid for one year from date of purchase) ………. | $25.00 |
|---|---|
| Wild turkey game tag: Resident: turkey game tag (1-bird limit) ………….. | 15.00 |
| Resident youth (under 16 years of age): turkey game tag (1-bird limit) ………………………. | 5.00 |
What is the bag limit for turkeys in Kansas?
Shooting Hours: One-half hour before sunrise to sunset. Legal Equipment: Shotguns using shot sizes 2-9; long, recurve or compound bows and crossbows. Permit Limit: One turkey with a visible beard per permit or game tag. Bag Limit: One turkey with a visible beard per permit or game tag.
When can you start hunting for Turkey in Kansas?
Updated: Feb 2, 2024 / 02:49 PM CST TOPEKA (KSNT) – Kansas hunters will be able to start hunting for turkey in just a couple months as the spring season kicks off. Turkey hunting is the favorite pastime of many in-state and out-of-state hunters in the Sunflower State.
Is Turkey season suspended in Kansas?
Spring Turkey Unit 4 Draw Stats Report Fall Turkey Season: Currently suspended. Due to declining populations on a state and regional level, the fall turkey season in Kansas is currently suspended.
Can I get a Turkey permit in Kansas?
Due to declining populations on a state and regional level, the fall turkey season in Kansas is currently suspended. Spring Turkey Unit Map Beginning in 2024, non-resident spring turkey permits will be available only by lottery draw. The application period is 01/09/24 – 02/09/24. There are no paper applications or mail in forms.
Do you need a permit to hunt a bearded Turkey in Kansas?
Hunters between 16 and 74, along with all nonresidents, must also have a valid Kansas hunting license unless hunting on their own land. A spring turkey permit is good for one bearded turkey. No game tags are available for the 2024 spring season. Kansas hunters who are 15 or younger can buy a youth permit at a reduced fee.
Can you hunt a Turkey in Kansas?
Fall turkey hunting in Kansas is allowed in five units. However, Unit 4 is closed. Hunters must hunt inside their permit’s management unit. Before filing for a permit or preference point, consider costs and rules. Dogs are only allowed in the fall. Licenses are non-transferable, and birds may only be shot on the ground or in flight.
What is the statewide permit/bag limit for turkeys in Kansas?
Due to the decline in the resident turkey population, the current statewide permit/bag limit for turkey in Kansas is one bird, according to the 2023-2024 Kansas Hunting and Furharvesting guide. No game tags are available for another bird for the spring 2024 season. Current season dates are below: