Turkey hunting in New Hampshire offers exciting opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. The state’s diverse landscapes and abundant wild turkey populations make it a prime destination for hunters seeking a challenging and rewarding experience. New Hampshire’s fall turkey hunting season runs from October 14 to October 20, 2024, with 10 Wildlife Management Units open for shotgun hunting.
Hunters must obtain the necessary licenses and permits before embarking on their turkey hunting adventure. A turkey license is required for both spring and fall seasons, and residents need a current NH hunting, archery, or combination license. Nonresidents must have a big game hunting or archery license, depending on their specific hunting plans. Youth hunters aged 15 and younger only need a turkey license to participate.
New Hampshire’s fall archery season for turkeys provides an extended hunting period from September 15 to December 8, 2024, in Wildlife Management Unit A. This additional opportunity allows hunters to pursue turkeys using different methods and potentially increase their chances of a successful harvest. Hunters are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the specific regulations and requirements for each hunting season to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience in New Hampshire’s picturesque autumn woodlands.
Basics of Turkey Hunting in New Hampshire
New Hampshire offers excellent turkey hunting opportunities across its diverse Wildlife Management Units (WMUs). The state’s turkey population has grown steadily since reintroduction efforts began in the 1970s.
Understanding WMUs
New Hampshire is divided into 18 Wildlife Management Units (WMUs) for hunting purposes. Each WMU has specific regulations and harvest limits for turkey hunting. Hunters must be familiar with WMU boundaries and rules before their hunt.
WMUs H1, H2, J2, K, L, and M typically have the highest turkey densities. These units often allow hunters to take two turkeys during the spring season. Other WMUs may have more restrictive bag limits.
Hunters can find detailed WMU maps and regulations on the New Hampshire Fish and Game website. It’s crucial to study these resources and plan hunts accordingly.
Turkey Populations and Wildlife Management
New Hampshire’s turkey population has flourished due to careful wildlife management practices. The state’s biologists monitor turkey numbers and adjust hunting regulations to maintain healthy populations.
Turkey hunting seasons are set to coincide with breeding periods when males are most vocal and responsive to calls. Spring season typically runs from early May to early June, while fall season is usually in October.
Wildlife officials use harvest data and population surveys to make informed decisions about turkey management. They may adjust bag limits or season dates based on this information.
Hunters play a vital role in wildlife management by participating in surveys and reporting their harvests. This data helps ensure sustainable turkey populations for future generations of hunters.
Turkey Hunting Seasons
New Hampshire offers two distinct turkey hunting seasons: spring and fall. Each season has specific dates, regulations, and bag limits for hunters to follow.
Spring Turkey Season
Spring turkey season in New Hampshire runs from May 1 to May 31 annually. Hunting hours are from 30 minutes before sunrise until 12 noon. The season limit is one bearded turkey per hunter.
Youth hunters get a special weekend on April 27-28, 2024. This provides young hunters an early opportunity before the regular season opens.
Hunters must possess a valid turkey license and appropriate hunting license. Residents need a current NH hunting, archery, or combination license. Nonresidents require a big game hunting or archery license.
Fall Shotgun Season
The fall shotgun turkey season lasts 7 days, from October 14 to October 20, 2024. Hunting hours extend from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset.
This season is open in 10 Wildlife Management Units: D2, G, H1, H2, I1, I2, J2, K, L, and M. Hunters should check regulations for specific unit boundaries.
The combined fall limit is one turkey per hunter. This includes turkeys taken during the fall archery season, which runs from September 15 to December 8, 2024 in Wildlife Management Unit A.
Hunters must tag turkeys immediately after harvest and register them within 24 hours online or at an open registration station.
Licensing Requirements
New Hampshire requires specific licenses for turkey hunting. Hunters must obtain the proper permits based on age, residency status, and hunting method.
Obtaining a Turkey License
Turkey hunters in New Hampshire need a valid turkey license. Adult residents must also possess a current NH hunting, archery, or combination license. Nonresidents require a big game hunting or archery license, depending on their chosen hunting method.
Licenses can be purchased online through the NH Fish and Game Department website or at authorized license agents throughout the state. The turkey license is valid for both spring and fall seasons.
Hunters should carefully review the regulations and zone-specific requirements before purchasing their licenses.
Youth Hunt Provisions
Young hunters under 16 years old have special provisions for turkey hunting in New Hampshire. They must obtain a turkey license but are exempt from the general hunting license requirement.
The state offers a special youth turkey hunt weekend before the regular spring season. This event provides a unique opportunity for young hunters to learn and practice under adult supervision.
Youth participants must be accompanied by a licensed adult hunter at least 18 years old. The adult may not carry a firearm or bow during the youth hunt.
Small Game License Options
While not specific to turkey hunting, small game licenses offer additional hunting opportunities in New Hampshire. These licenses cover various small game species but do not include turkey.
Hunters interested in pursuing both turkey and small game should consider combination licenses. These options provide cost-effective ways to enjoy multiple hunting seasons.
Small game licenses are available for residents and nonresidents. They can be purchased as stand-alone permits or as part of broader hunting packages.
Always check current regulations, as license requirements and fees may change annually.
Legal Hunting Practices
Turkey hunting in New Hampshire requires adherence to specific regulations and licensing requirements. Hunters must follow established rules for seasons, methods, and safety practices.
Turkey Hunting Regulations
A turkey license is mandatory for hunting in New Hampshire. Residents need a current NH hunting, archery, or combination license in addition to the turkey license. Nonresidents must obtain a big game hunting or archery license depending on their hunting plans.
Youth hunters aged 15 or younger only need a turkey license. The turkey license is valid for both spring and fall seasons. Hunters must tag turkeys immediately after killing them.
Registration of a fully feathered intact carcass is required within 24 hours. This can be done online or at the nearest open registration station.
Archery Regulations
Fall archery season for turkey hunting runs from September 15 to December 8, 2024 in Wildlife Management Unit A. Hunters are limited to one turkey of either sex during this period.
Archers must possess the appropriate archery license. Safety considerations are paramount when using bows for turkey hunting. Hunters should be proficient with their equipment and aware of their surroundings.
Hunting Hours
Hunting hours vary by season in New Hampshire. During the fall season, turkey hunting is permitted from half an hour before sunrise until half an hour after sunset.
Spring season has more restricted hours. Hunters can pursue turkeys from half an hour before sunrise until 12 noon. These time limits help manage hunting pressure and ensure fair chase practices.
Hunters must be vigilant about adhering to these hours to avoid violations and ensure a safe, legal hunt.
Hunting Equipment and Techniques
Successful turkey hunting in New Hampshire requires the right gear and methods. Hunters must choose between archery and shotgun approaches, select appropriate broadheads, and effectively use decoys and calls.
Selecting Proper Broadheads
For archery turkey hunters, choosing the right broadhead is crucial. Fixed-blade broadheads offer reliability and deep penetration. Mechanical broadheads provide a larger cutting diameter but may have less penetration.
Turkey-specific broadheads often feature multiple small blades for increased cutting surface. Some popular options include:
• Guillotine-style heads for head/neck shots
• Cut-on-contact fixed blades for body shots
• Expandable heads with 2-inch cutting diameters
Hunters should practice with their chosen broadheads to ensure accuracy and proper arrow flight. It’s important to check New Hampshire regulations for any restrictions on broadhead types or sizes.
Archery vs. Shotgun Approaches
New Hampshire offers both archery and shotgun seasons for turkey hunting. Each method has its advantages and challenges.
Archery:
• Requires closer range (typically under 30 yards)
• Demands more stealth and patience
• Allows for a longer season in some areas
Shotgun:
• Effective at longer ranges (up to 40-50 yards)
• Provides quicker follow-up shots
• May be easier for beginners
Shotgun hunters should use 12 or 20-gauge shotguns with tight chokes. #4, #5, or #6 shot sizes are common choices. Archers must ensure their bows meet the state’s minimum draw weight requirements.
Decoys and Calls
Decoys and calls are essential tools for attracting turkeys within range. Realistic decoys can entice wary toms to approach. Common setups include:
• Single hen decoy
• Jake and hen combination
• Multiple hen decoys
Hunters should position decoys 15-20 yards from their location for optimal shot opportunities.
Turkey calls mimic hen vocalizations to draw in gobblers. Popular call types include:
- Box calls
- Slate calls
- Diaphragm calls
Each call type requires practice to master. Hunters should learn basic yelps, clucks, and purrs. Mixing call types and varying the frequency can make setups more convincing.
Proper use of decoys and calls significantly increases the chances of harvesting a bearded turkey during New Hampshire’s spring season.
Understanding Game Laws
New Hampshire’s turkey hunting regulations aim to maintain sustainable populations while providing opportunities for hunters. Hunters must comply with specific rules and participate in conservation efforts.
Statewide Regulations
Turkey hunters in New Hampshire need a valid turkey license for both spring and fall seasons. Residents must also have a current NH hunting, archery, or combination license. Nonresidents require a big game hunting or archery license.
Youth hunters aged 15 or younger only need a turkey license.
Hunting hours vary by season:
- Fall: 1/2 hour before sunrise to 1/2 hour after sunset
- Spring: 1/2 hour before sunrise to 12 noon
Turkeys must be tagged immediately after harvest. Hunters must register their fully feathered intact carcass online or at an open registration station within 24 hours.
Wildlife Restoration Programs
New Hampshire’s turkey population has benefited from wildlife restoration efforts. The state carefully manages hunting seasons and bag limits to ensure sustainable turkey numbers.
Hunters play a crucial role in conservation by following regulations and supporting habitat preservation. Their license fees and excise taxes on hunting equipment contribute to wildlife management programs.
The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department uses this funding to conduct research, improve habitats, and monitor turkey populations. These efforts help maintain healthy turkey numbers for future generations of hunters.
Preparing for the Hunt
Proper preparation is crucial for a successful turkey hunt in New Hampshire. Scouting the area and prioritizing safety are key steps to take before heading out.
Scouting for Turkeys
Start scouting potential hunting areas several weeks before the season opens. Look for signs of turkey activity such as tracks, droppings, feathers, and scratched areas in the forest floor. Listen for gobbling at dawn and dusk to pinpoint roosting sites.
Identify food sources like acorns, beechnuts, and insects that attract turkeys. Note travel corridors between roosting and feeding areas. Use topographic maps and satellite imagery to mark promising locations.
Practice using turkey calls to mimic hen sounds. Set up trail cameras to monitor turkey movements and patterns. This intel will help you choose the best spots to set up on opening day.
Safety Considerations
Wear blaze orange when walking to and from your hunting spot. Avoid wearing red, white, blue or black clothing, as these colors resemble a turkey’s head. Always positively identify your target before shooting.
Use a shotgun with a tight choke and practice patterning it at various distances. Carry a first aid kit and let someone know your planned hunting location and return time.
Be aware of other hunters in the area. If you see another hunter approaching, speak up clearly to make your presence known. Never stalk turkey sounds, as it could be another hunter calling.