Delaware Wild Turkey

Delaware Wild Turkey Hunting: An In-Depth Guide

Wild turkey hunting in Delaware offers hunters a unique experience in the state's diverse habitats. This guide covers essential information on wild turkey hunting in Delaware, including seasons, turkey behavior, land access, and gear.

Hunting Seasons

• Spring Season: The primary turkey hunting season in Delaware typically occurs in April and May.
• Fall Season: Some areas may offer limited fall turkey hunting opportunities.
• Seasonal Details: For current season dates and regulations, visit Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife.

Wild Turkey Behavior and Movement

• Spring: Turkeys are more active during the mating season, with toms displaying and gobbling.
• Fall: Turkeys form larger flocks and focus on feeding, often in fields and open woodland areas.
• Roosting: Turkeys roost in trees at night and are typically active at dawn and dusk.

Accessing Hunting Land

• Public Land: Delaware offers several state wildlife areas and forests for turkey hunting.
• Private Land: Accessing private land for hunting usually requires permission from landowners. Some lands may be available for leasing.

Feeding Patterns and Locating Hunting Areas

• Diet: Wild turkeys feed on a variety of foods including acorns, seeds, insects, and green vegetation.
• Terrain: Ideal habitats include mixed hardwood forests, fields, and clearings.
• Scouting: Pre-season scouting is crucial to locate active feeding areas, droppings, scratchings, and roosting sites.

Gear and Equipment

• Firearms: Shotguns are commonly used in turkey hunting, with #4, #5, or #6 shot sizes being popular.
• Archery Equipment: Bows and crossbows are also used, requiring precise shot placement.
• Calls: Box calls, slate calls, and diaphragm calls are used to mimic turkey sounds and attract birds.
• Camouflage and Clothing: Full-body camouflage is important to remain undetected by turkeys, which have sharp eyesight.
• Decoys: Turkey decoys can be effective in attracting toms during the spring season.

External Links

• Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife - Turkey Hunting - Official guidelines and information on turkey hunting in Delaware.
• National Wild Turkey Federation - Additional resources and tips for turkey hunting.