Mississippi has been renowned for its plentiful turkey population and exceptional turkey hunting chances for a long time.
In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about hunting turkey in the Magnolia State, including the bag limits, basic regulations and rules, as well as top public and private destinations. Whether you are a resident or non-resident, we will provide you with all the necessary information for the hunting season, including dates.
Mississippi’s spring turkey season for youth kicks off on Wednesday, March 15, 2023, running through Monday, May 1. Youth hunters will have the opportunity to jumpstart their one-week hunting experience under the guidance of trained professionals.
The website of the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks provides additional details regarding this Public Land Endorsement. It is necessary to be chosen and submit an application before the season begins to obtain the endorsement. Nonresident hunters who plan to hunt during the initial two weeks of the season must obtain a unique Public Land Endorsement at no charge.
Youth hunters under the age of 15 can still shoot male turkeys, but there are limitations. The Youth season is limited to three days per spring. The bag limit for Mississippi’s turkey season is one adult gobbler with a beard of at least 6 inches.
Public Land Turkey Hunting Opportunities
Mississippi turkey hunters are blessed with a variety of public hunting land options. Some of these opportunities are only available through a draw for the first two weeks, followed by open hunting. On the other hand, there are others that are open for the entire statewide season. Some are exclusively open for youth hunters, while others require a draw for the entire season.
Mississippi provides color-coded information on turkey hunting availability, including the open dates and locations (WMAs). The highlighting graphic can be found below.
If you do decide to try public land turkey hunting this spring, here are a few tips to help you get started.
2023 Turkey Season Outlook
In the turkey forests of Mississippi, there are a few areas of positivity. Despite the decrease, the turkey population in Mississippi has been consistently decreasing over the past 10-15 years, similar to numerous other southeastern states.
In 2022, there was an exceptional number of turkeys sighted in Mississippi, surpassing the numbers seen in any other southeastern state. Hunters reported a significant increase in turkey sightings during the winter, indicating a dramatic spike in turkey population across the state.
Making a comeback, the region is displaying indications of an increase in turkey populations, whereas turkeys in the southern part of the state have been affected by hurricanes and flooding throughout the years.
While some may choose to challenge themselves in the upcoming turkey season in Mississippi in 2023, it is often the case that others will have a successful experience. It is expected that adult birds will predominantly be found in areas with good habitat and properties, offering the best hunting opportunities for turkey enthusiasts.
Regardless of the state you are in, there are abundant opportunities to fill a spring turkey tag and get out there to put in the work and make it happen with your legs.
Legal Turkey Hunting Weapons
Quadriplegics may hunt turkeys with a rifle. Turkeys can be taken with crossbows and various types of bows, such as recurve and compound bows. In Mississippi, hunters can use shotguns of any size to hunt turkeys, as long as they do not exceed a certain number of shots.
Turkey Harvest Reporting
All turkeys harvested during the spring turkey season in Mississippi must be reported to the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks by 10 p.M. On the day of the harvest.
Prior to relocating the turkey from the designated area for harvesting, hunters are required to record their name and the date. This documentation can be done through the MDWFP reporting app on a smartphone, a physical copy of the MDWFP harvest report, or a record given by the hunter. As a requirement, all turkey hunters must possess a valid harvest reporting record during their hunting activities.
Three options are available to report a Check Game harvest: you can call the 1-800-BE-SMART phone line, visit the Check Game website, or log the harvest using the MDWFP reporting application on your smartphone. Once you complete the Check Game process, you will receive a confirmation number.
License Requirements and Fees
Individuals aged 16 to 64 living in the region must have a hunting permit, unless they are hunting on their personal property.
In Mississippi, individuals from outside the state must acquire a hunting permit when engaging in hunting activities, with the exception of minors who are below 16 years old.
Final Thoughts
Despite the fact that turkey populations in Mississippi may not currently be at the same level as they were in recent years, persistence and hard work could still create opportunities for the existence of two or more turkey habitats, even outside the best habitats. A good production of poult in recent years could potentially make the 2023 turkey hunting season prosperous.
Best of luck this season!