Spring Into Turkey Hunting: What You Need to Know for 2024

Written by HLRBO - Alexandra Carter| 2/12/2024

Ready to bag a tom this spring? The 2024 Minnesota turkey season kicks off April 17, bringing ample opportunities for success. This guide covers everything new hunters need to know, plus key reminders for veterans before hitting the fields.

When's Opening Day?

The 2024 Minnesota spring turkey season runs from April 17 through May 31. Hunters can take to the fields, starting 30 minutes before sunrise until sunset each day.

What Are the License Options?

Starting March 1, hunters can purchase 2024 licenses over the counter, by phone, or online. Options include:

Firearms: Valid for one designated time period (A-F). Adults must enter a lottery for access to certain WMAs.
Archery-only: Statewide validity for the full season. Crossbows are now allowed.
Youth: Statewide access for all of spring for hunters 17 and under using any legal methods.

Prices range from $4 for youth to $96 for non-resident firearms.

What's New for 2024?

Spring turkey hunters will see a few regulation changes that are good to note before hitting the fields:

Archery-Only Crossbow Use Permitted - Hunters with a 2024 archery-only turkey license can now legally use crossbow equipment to harvest a bird. This provides additional hunting method flexibility.
Blaze Orange Required on Public Land Blinds - Any ground blinds set up on public lands must have blaze orange markings visible on all sides. Specifically, they need either a cover on top in blaze orange or large blaze orange patches on each side totaling over 144 square inches.
Lottery Timing Changes for Carlos Avery and Whitewater WMAs - The application deadlines and validity periods for the firearms turkey hunting lotteries at the Carlos Avery and Whitewater Wildlife Management Areas have been adjusted for 2024.

Key Spring Turkey Hunt Rules and Regulations

Minnesota turkey hunters should keep these essential 2024 spring turkey hunt rules in mind:

Shooting hours run from one-half hour before sunrise until sunset each day.
Hunters may not be accompanied by dogs while in the field.
Legal firearms and archery equipment have strict specifications. Carefully review requirements before selecting your hunting implements.
Electronic calls and live decoys are prohibited.
Baiting turkeys is not allowed.

Firearms Safety Certification Required

Firearms safety certification is mandatory for all hunters over age 12 who are hunting under a firearms license.
Youth ages 12-15 who use archery equipment need a firearms safety certificate as well.
The certification meets requirements for purchasing a fall turkey hunting license too.

Gear Up Properly

Beyond appropriate licenses, hunters need firearms and ammunition or archery equipment meeting certain specifications to comply with regulations. Review requirements closely before heading out.

Respect Private Lands

Trespassing continues to be a major issue across hunting seasons. Always secure permission for any private land access. Following trespass guidelines preserves relationships and hunting habitat in the long run.

This spring, enjoy Minnesota's abundant turkey hunting opportunities. But be sure to check the 2024 regulations thoroughly before hitting the field. Wishing you a safe and successful hunt!

Don't Let Trespass Issues Befall Your Hunt

For a relaxing Minnesota spring turkey hunt without worrying about land access, consider HLRBO. Our exclusive leased acres provide guaranteed legal hunting grounds without the hassle of continuously seeking daily permission. Contact us today to secure your spot for spring 2024!

Check out HLRBO today!

https://www.hlrbo.com