Hunting News

Winter turkey season opens Jan. 21

Winter turkey season opens Jan. 21

By Maryland Department of Natural Resources

Winter turkey season for hunters who did not harvest a turkey during the 2020 fall season will run statewide from Jan. 21 to 23.

Hunting hours are from one half-hour before sunrise to one half-hour after sunset. The bag limit is one turkey of either sex.

“Wild turkey populations are at record high levels in many areas of Maryland,” said Paul Peditto, Wildlife and Heritage Service director. “The winter hunt provides an additional opportunity to bag a turkey when many hunters are putting their gear away for the season.”

During the winter turkey season, hunters may only use shotguns loaded with No. 4 shot or smaller, crossbows, vertical bows or airguns that shoot arrows or bolts.

Hunters are reminded that it is illegal to hunt turkeys with the aid of bait. Hunters are required to check in their harvest via phone at (888)800-0121 or via the department’s mobile app or online.

The Maryland Guide to Hunting and Trapping provides information about winter turkey hunting, including season open dates and regulations.

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