Long Island’s First Ever Spring Wild Turkey Hunting Season May 1-31

The opening of this new season is the result of DEC’s efforts to reintroduce wild turkeys in the mid-1990s.

In 2009, the first autumn hunting season for wild turkeys opened in the region. DEC has closely monitored this new season in subsequent years and has confirmed that Long Island’s wild turkey population can continue to thrive despite hunting pressure. Long Island proved to be an area where safe and successful wild turkey hunting is possible, and during 14 fall seasons there was not a single incident related to the safety of hunting.

Season dates: May 1-31

Hunting time: Half an hour before sunrise until noon

Reception method: Hunters can hunt with a shotgun or pistol loaded with no more than 2 and no less than 9 shot, or with a bow. Hunters cannot use crossbows or rifles. Pistols are not allowed while hunting on public lands.

Current license and tags: To participate in the hunt, hunters must have a valid New York State hunting license and a turkey hunting permit.

Spring bag limit in Turkey for WMU 1C:

• No more than one bearded turkey per day; And
• No more than one bearded turkey in a conservation facility (WMU) 1C

Additional information about hunting regulations in Turkey in New York State can be found on the DEC website.

Successful hunters will be strongly encouraged to bring their game to the Ridge Hunter Check Station located at 484 Randall Road, Ridge, NY. DEC staff will record biological data to help assess the season and population structure. Checkpoint visits are not required, but all birds taken must be reported within 48 hours by phone (1-866-426-3778) or through the DEC Catch Reporting web page. For station hours, visit the DEC Hunting Long Island web page or call the Region 1 Wildlife Authority (631-444-0310).

Read the full press release for wild turkey status and areas open for the spring season on Long Island.

Additional Information:
Hunting on Long Island
Long Island Public Hunting Grounds
Public hunting opportunities in Suffolk County, Long Island
Terms of use for DEC-managed land in Suffolk