News  2026 spring turkey hunting season

The days are growing longer, the fields are greening up, and the start of spring turkey hunting is just around the corner and runs from April 27–May 23. Whether you're a beginner hunter or a seasoned pro, you can find resources on this page to help you prepare for a safe and successful spring turkey season. 

Regulations and harvest reporting

• Get your license and turkey permit. If you’re hunting wild turkeys in Massachusetts, you need a hunting or sporting license as well as a turkey permit. A turkey permit comes with 3 turkey tags. Hunters can take 2 bearded turkeys in the spring and 1 turkey of either sex in the fall. Buy online at MassFishHunt.mass.gov or at a license agent (click here for a map).
• Review turkey hunting regulations including hunting hours, bag limits, and allowable hunting implements.
  Note: Significant changes were recently made to Massachusetts firearms laws and are now in effect. If you're planning to hunt with a firearm, please review updated guidance.
• Successful hunters must report their turkeys within 48 hours of harvest. The easiest way to report a harvest is online. Click here to learn more about harvest reporting.

Hunting classes and learning resources

• Free turkey hunting skills classes are being offered this spring by MassWildlife and partners.
• The 2026 Youth Turkey Hunt is April 25. There is still time for Basic Hunter Education graduates to participate in the Youth Hunt. Learn about the Program and to register for an online or in-person seminar.
• Browse spring turkey hunting tips to learn more about pre-season scouting, using decoys, roosting birds, calls, and more.
• Make the most of your harvest with wild turkey meat preparation tips and recipes.

Turkey hunting safety

• Always follow the 10 basic rules of firearm safety.
• Be completely sure of your target and what is beyond it before you shoot. Always practice firearm safety.
• Don't stalk turkey sounds; it could be another hunter. Sit or stand and call the birds to you.
• Do not wear red, white, blue, or black; these colors are associated with male turkeys.
• Protect your back. Set up against a large tree or rock and make sure your view isn't obstructed. Don't hide in a place with an obstructed view.
• Do not place decoys too close to where you set up. Never carry an exposed decoy or tail fan while hunting; put them in a bag when carrying them in or out of hunting locations.
• Consider wearing hunter orange when entering or leaving your hunting area.