When is Turkey Season in Colorado?

Turkey hunting is a popular pastime in Colorado that allows hunters to hone their skills and enjoy the outdoors However, turkey season in Colorado has specific dates and regulations that hunters need to pay attention to avoid penalties This article will provide a comprehensive guide on when turkey seasons occur in Colorado along with key information for hunters.

Overview of Turkey Seasons in Colorado

There are three turkey seasons in Colorado

• Spring Turkey Season – April 13 to May 31
• Fall Turkey Season – September 1 to October 25
• Late Fall Turkey Season – December 15 to January 15

Season dates can vary slightly by license type and location Be sure to check the official Colorado Parks and Wildlife regulations for exact season dates in your hunt area

Spring Turkey Season

The spring turkey season is the most popular season, taking place from mid-April through the end of May. During this time, male turkeys are mating and are more responsive to calls from hunters.

• Spring licenses can be obtained through a limited draw process or purchased over-the-counter.
• Youth under 18 can purchase reduced-cost spring turkey licenses.
• Spring turkey licenses allow hunting on both public and private land. Always obtain permission before hunting private property.

Key dates for spring turkey season:

• January 2 – Spring license draw applications open
• February 6 – Deadline for submitting spring draw applications
• February 14 – Spring draw results posted online
• March 1 – Over-the-counter spring licenses go on sale

Fall Turkey Season

The fall turkey season runs from September 1 to October 25 each year. This season focuses on harvesting hens to manage turkey populations.

• Fall licenses can be obtained through a limited draw or purchased over-the-counter.
• Youth can purchase discounted fall turkey licenses.
• Hunting is allowed on public lands and private property with landowner permission.

Important fall turkey season dates:

• May 1 – Applications open for fall license draw
• May 31 – Deadline for submitting fall draw applications
• June 5 – Fall draw results available online
• June 20 – Over-the-counter fall licenses go on sale

Late Fall Turkey Season

Colorado also offers a brief late fall turkey season from December 15 to January 15.

• Late season licenses allow hunters to harvest beardless turkeys on private land only.
• Up to 2 beardless turkey licenses can be purchased over-the-counter per hunter.
• Landowner permission is required before hunting.

License Costs and Requirements

All turkey hunters in Colorado need a hunting license and habitat stamp. License fees depend on residency, age, and season.

• Habitat stamp – $12.15 for residents and nonresidents
• Spring turkey, residents – $35.76
• Fall turkey, residents – $29.69
• Spring or fall turkey, nonresidents – $183.94
• Youth spring or fall turkey, residents – $18.75
• Youth spring or fall turkey, nonresidents – $123.21

Hunters must also pass a hunter education course and carry proof while in the field. Licenses can be purchased online, by phone, or in person at Colorado Parks and Wildlife offices.

Turkey Hunting Opportunities on Public Lands

Many public lands across Colorado provide excellent turkey hunting opportunities. Some top options include:

• Routt National Forest – Large Merriam’s turkey population
• San Juan National Forest – High-elevation hunting for Merriam’s turkeys
• Pike National Forest – Rio Grande turkeys along the Front Range
• State Trust Lands – Scattered lands with turkey hunting access
• Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area – Rio Grande and Merriam’s turkeys

Be sure to research rules, regulations, and access options on public lands before your hunt.

Tips for a Successful Turkey Hunt

Follow these tips to increase your chances of success during Colorado turkey seasons:

• Scout areas in advance to locate flocks and patterns.
• Use appropriate turkey calls and be proficient with calling techniques.
• Use decoys and blinds to draw in wary gobblers.
• Be properly camouflaged and minimize movements.
• Be patient and ready when a turkey presents a shot opportunity.
• Carefully plan your hunt timing and tactics around turkey biology and behaviors.
• Be sure of your target and beyond when taking a shot.
• Follow best practices for field dressing and caring for harvested birds.

With preparation and knowledge of the regulations, Colorado provides awesome turkey hunting during the spring, fall, and late fall seasons. Review the season dates and license details, scout your locations, brush up on your skills, and get ready for an exciting time pursuing wild turkeys across Colorado.