The Excitement and Challenge of Spring Turkey Hunting

Sitting in a heated ground blind with my young son on the last day of deer season, we watched as the sun set and the deer off in the distance offered hope, but ultimately no opportunity. I turned to my son and thanked him for a great hunting season.

We talked a bit about the fun and excitement this season brought us. Getting ready to call it quits on the season he looks me square in the eyes and asked, “How many days until turkey season?” As a Dad I was looking forward to a little break to allow my calendar to be filled with some ‘honey-do’ items and was not thinking that far ahead. I chuckled a bit and said we would have to look at the calendar and, once we got cleaned up from deer season, we could focus on getting ready for the spring turkey adventure.

Preparing for spring turkey season is no small feat. It requires meticulous planning, attention to detail, and a healthy dose of patience.

As the days grow longer and the anticipation builds, there are several key steps that every hunter must take to ensure a successful hunt.

Springtime in the Turkey Woods

The first season typically begins in early April, coinciding with the turkeys’ breeding season, known as the ‘spring strut.’ During this time, male turkeys, or toms, become particularly vocal and aggressive as they vie for the attention of hens. This presents a unique opportunity for hunters, as toms are more likely to respond to calls and decoys in their quest for finding a suitable mate.

As the season progresses, the landscape changes, with trees budding, flowers blooming, and wildlife stirring from the winter months. For many hunters, the spring turkey season offers a chance to immerse themselves in the sights, sounds, and smells of nature during the time of regeneration.

Securing a Turkey Tag

With five spring seasons and an additional two weekends dedicated to youth hunters, there are ample opportunities to pursue these elusive birds. However, securing a tag requires navigating a lottery system, adding an element of chance to the equation. Counties with left over tags make those available through licensed vendors. For those fortunate enough to draw a tag for their area, the real work begins.

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources’ Turkey Hunting website provides a comprehensive resource for those interested in turkey hunting.

Preparing for the Hunt

In advance of a spring turkey hunt you need to scout the area. This involves identifying areas where turkeys are likely to roost, feed, and strut, as well as locating travel routes and potential ambush sites. Many hunters rely on trail cameras to monitor turkey activity and gather valuable intelligence about their behavior patterns.

Above all else, familiarize yourself with the regulations governing turkey hunting in your area, including legal shooting hours, bag limits, and any special restrictions that may apply.

Gearing Up

Of course, no turkey hunt would be complete without the proper gear and equipment essential to enhancing your chances of success.

Mastering the art of turkey calling is crucial for success in the field. Turkeys are highly vocal animals, communicating through a wide range of calls, from the iconic gobble of a tom to the subtle purrs and clucks of a hen. By learning to mimic these sounds effectively, hunters can increase their chances of luring turkeys within range.

Of course, no turkey hunt would be complete without a reliable firearm and a well-patterned shot. Before heading into the field, take the time to ensure that your shotgun is in good working order and properly sighted in. Experiment with different loads and choke combinations to find the perfect balance of power and accuracy.

Many hunters rely on blinds or other forms of concealment to remain hidden. Whether you prefer a ground blind or a natural hide, the goal is the same: to remain undetected until the perfect moment presents itself. If it is early season, consider a portable heater to offset the chill of the overnight temperatures. Waiting for the sun to rise, and listening to birds call from the roost, is much more enjoyable when you’re warm and comfortable.

Dust off the decoys and dig out the camouflage gear. Turkeys have keen eyesight and are notoriously wary, so blending into your surroundings is essential.

Handling Your Successful Harvest

If you’re lucky enough to harvest a turkey, be sure to properly tag it and check it in on the online reporting system. Be sure to check these tagging requirements before heading out, or call your local conservation officer.

Where to Turkey Hunt

Illinois has a vast network of public hunting areas and many of them offer spring turkey hunting. If you draw a tag for one of these areas, be aware the area is closed to non-hunters, but the occasional wanderer may enter your area looking for morel mushrooms or taking a dog for a walk. Be patient and contact your local conservation police officer if needed.

Hunt Illinois is an excellent resource with information to help plan you turkey hunt.

In the end, spring turkey hunting in Illinois is about more than just bagging a bird—it’s about connecting with nature, forging lasting friendships, and carrying on a proud tradition that has been passed down through generations.

As another season draws to a close and the echoes of gobbles fade into the distance, hunters across the state will already be counting down the days until next spring. Or, as in my case, responding to a young hunting partner asking how many days until the opening day of the fall deer season.

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Steven Beltran joined the Illinois Conservation Police in 2000, retiring as a Sergeant in northwest Illinois in 2024.