Indiana Turkey Season 2025-2026: Dates, License & Regulations-All You Need To Know!

If you’re planning to chase longbeards in the Hoosier State, you’ve landed in the right spot. Indiana offers excellent wild bird opportunities for both spring and fall hunters, with statewide access and straightforward licensing requirements. This guide covers everything you need to know about the 2025-2026 Indiana wild gobbler hunting dates, bag limits, tag costs, zones, and regulations—so you can focus on calling in that trophy tom instead of worrying about paperwork.

Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or planning your first sunrise setup, understanding the specific dates, licensing requirements, and hunting zones will set you up for success. Let’s dive into what makes Indiana such a rewarding destination for wild bird enthusiasts and how you can make the most of both seasons.

🗓️ Quick Reference: Indiana Wild Bird Hunting Dates 2025-2026

Hunt Type	Season Dates	Bag Limit	Legal Methods
Youth Spring	April 18-19, 2026	1 bearded or male bird	Shotgun, Bow, Crossbow, Muzzleloader
Spring (Statewide)	April 22 – May 10, 2026	1 bearded or male bird	Shotgun, Bow, Crossbow, Muzzleloader
Fall Archery (Statewide)	Oct. 1-26, 2025 & Dec. 6, 2025 – Jan. 4, 2026	1 bird of either sex	Bow, Crossbow
Fall Firearms (Select Counties)	Oct. 15-26, 2025	1 bird of either sex	Shotgun, Muzzleloader

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📅 All Indiana Wild Bird Seasons Explained

Spring Hunting Season 2026

The spring hunting period is what most hunters live for—and for good reason. Toms are fired up, gobbling their heads off at sunrise, and responsive to calling. Indiana’s spring dates consistently open the first Wednesday after April 20, running for 18 days statewide.

Spring 2026 Season Details:

• Regular Season: April 22 – May 10, 2026
• Youth Weekend: April 18-19, 2026 (always the weekend before regular opener)
• Hunting Hours: One-half hour before sunrise until sunset (DNR properties may have noon or 1 PM cutoffs depending on time zone)
• Bag Limit: One bearded or male bird for the entire spring period (youth and regular combined)
• Legal Zones: Statewide access across all Indiana counties

I remember my first Indiana spring hunt back when I was just getting serious about this sport. The woods came alive around 6:30 AM with three different gobblers sounding off. That adrenaline rush when a longbeard finally commits to your setup? Nothing compares. Just make sure you’re set up well before legal shooting light—these birds don’t wait around.

Youth Hunting Weekend 2026 🎯

April 18-19, 2026 marks the special youth weekend, giving young hunters (17 and under) an exclusive first crack at spring gobblers. Youth participants must be accompanied by a licensed adult (18+) who cannot harvest a bird during this weekend or possess hunting equipment in the field (except a lawfully carried handgun).

This is a fantastic opportunity to introduce kids to the thrill of calling in a strutting tom without the pressure of competing with other hunters. Youth bag limits count toward the overall spring limit of one bearded bird.

Fall Hunting Seasons 2025-2026

Fall hunting presents a completely different challenge. Birds are grouped in family flocks, less vocal, and focused on feeding rather than breeding. But don’t let that discourage you—fall hunts can be incredibly rewarding if you adjust your tactics.

Fall Archery (Statewide):

• Period 1: October 1-26, 2025
• Period 2: December 6, 2025 – January 4, 2026
• Legal Methods: Bow and arrow, crossbow
• Bag Limit: One bird of either sex for the entire fall (regardless of method or date)

Fall Firearms (Select Counties Only):

• Dates: October 15-26, 2025
• Counties: Check the official Indiana DNR firearms county map for participating areas (selection based on forest cover, harvest data, and population health)
• Legal Methods: Shotgun, muzzleloading shotgun
• Hunter Orange Required: During overlap with deer muzzleloader periods (Dec. 6-21, 2025)

Fall firearms opportunities aren’t available everywhere, so verify your hunting location qualifies before heading out. The DNR selects counties based on habitat quality and population sustainability.

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🕊️ Related Game Bird Species in Indiana

While wild gobblers steal the spotlight, Indiana offers opportunities for other upland birds that can extend your hunting calendar:

Ring-Necked Pheasant

• Dates: November 1 – December 15, 2025
• Bag Limit: 2 birds daily (4 in possession)
• Requirements: Valid hunting license + Game Bird Habitat Stamp

Northern Bobwhite Quail

• North Zone: Limited opportunities (check local regulations)
• South Zone: More robust populations
• Bag Limit: Varies by zone (typically 4 birds daily south of I-74)

Ruffed Grouse

• Status: Currently listed as state endangered (hunting season closed since 2015)
• Population recovery efforts are ongoing in northern counties

Mourning Dove

• Dates: September 1 – November 29, 2025
• A gamebird habitat stamp is required for dove hunting

Combining these species with your wild bird hunts can make for diverse and exciting outings across different seasons. If you’re interested in exploring wild bird hunting opportunities in neighboring states, check out the Illinois wild bird hunting season or the Nebraska wild bird hunting season for additional adventures.

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📋 Indiana Wild Bird Hunting Regulations Checklist

✅ Hunting Hours: One-half hour before sunrise to sunset (check specific DNR properties for additional restrictions)

✅ Check-In Requirement: All harvested birds must be checked in through the CheckIN Game system within 48 hours

✅ Transportation Tags: Download and attach temporary transportation tags immediately after harvest

✅ Legal Weapons:

• Shotguns: .410, 10-, 12-, 16-, 20-, or 28-gauge
• Shot Sizes: No. 4, 5, 6, 7, 7½, and Tungsten Super Shot 9 and 10
• Muzzleloading shotguns: 20-gauge to 10-gauge (same shot sizes)
• Archery equipment: Bow and arrow or crossbow

✅ Non-Toxic Shot: Required on certain DNR properties (contact property managers for specifics)

✅ No Sunday Hunting: Wild bird hunting is prohibited on Sundays in Indiana

✅ Decoy Restrictions: Live decoys and dogs are illegal during spring (allowed during fall)

✅ Hunter Orange: Required when fall dates overlap with deer muzzleloader periods (Dec. 6-21, 2025)

According to the National Wild Turkey Federation, proper field preparation and ethical hunting practices contribute to sustainable wild bird populations across North America. Following these regulations ensures future generations can enjoy this tradition.

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🎟️ Indiana Wild Bird License & Tag Fees

Here’s what you’ll need to invest for the 2025-2026 hunting periods:

Resident Licenses

• Spring Wild Bird License: $32
• Fall Wild Bird License: $32 (separate from spring)
• Game Bird Habitat Stamp: $11 (required for both)
• Total Spring Cost: $43
• Total Fall Cost: $43
• Both Seasons: $86

Non-Resident Licenses

• Spring Wild Bird License: $175
• Fall Wild Bird License: $175
• Game Bird Habitat Stamp: $11
• Total Spring Cost: $186
• Total Fall Cost: $186

Youth Licenses

• Youth (17 and under): $32 per season (resident and non-resident youth same price)
• Game Bird Habitat Stamp often included with youth licenses

Exemptions

Lifetime comprehensive hunting license holders and resident youth hunt/trap license holders can hunt either period without purchasing separate licenses or habitat stamps.

Purchase Options: Get your licenses online at GoOutdoorsIN.com or through authorized retailers statewide.

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🎓 Indiana Wild Bird License Requirements

Who Needs a License?

All hunters (resident and non-resident) pursuing wild birds must possess:

1. Valid spring OR fall-specific hunting license
2. Game Bird Habitat Stamp privilege (unless exempt)
3. Hunter education certification (if born after December 31, 1986)

Hunter Education

Anyone born after December 31, 1986, must complete an approved hunter education course before purchasing a license—unless hunting under an apprentice license with direct supervision.

Indiana offers online and in-person hunter education courses through the DNR. Even if you’re exempt, taking a course significantly improves your woodsmanship, safety awareness, and success rates.

Public Land Requirements

Some public lands require additional permits or have reserved draw hunt systems. Always check specific property regulations before hunting on state-managed areas.

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❓ Indiana Wild Bird Hunting FAQs

Can I hunt spring and fall with the same license?

No. Indiana requires separate licenses for spring and fall periods. If you plan to hunt both, budget accordingly.

What’s the difference between spring and fall hunting?

Spring focuses on calling in breeding males using hen vocalizations and decoys. Fall hunting targets family flocks that are quieter and more pattern-based, requiring different tactics like scatter-and-call or ambush setups near feeding areas.

Can I use decoys during spring?

Yes! Hen and jake decoys are legal and effective during spring. However, live decoys and dogs are prohibited. During fall, dogs are permitted.

Do I need hunter orange?

Hunter orange is only required when fall wild bird dates overlap with deer muzzleloader periods (December 6-21, 2025). It’s not required during spring.

Can non-residents hunt Indiana?

Absolutely. Non-residents enjoy the same statewide access as residents but pay higher license fees. Indiana’s robust populations and generous seasons make it a popular destination for out-of-state hunters.

What happens if I don’t check in my harvest?

Failing to check in harvested birds within 48 hours through the CheckIN Game system can result in fines and penalties. Always carry your confirmation number as proof.

Are electronic calls legal?

No. Electronic calls and recorded sounds are prohibited for wild bird hunting in Indiana.

For those looking to expand their hunting horizons, exploring the Georgia wild bird hunting season offers similar spring and fall opportunities with different terrain and hunting cultures.

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🌾 Wrapping It Up

Indiana’s 2025-2026 wild bird hunting periods offer excellent opportunities for hunters of all skill levels. With statewide spring access from April 22 – May 10, 2026, and dual fall periods in October and December-January, there’s plenty of time to chase longbeards and family flocks across diverse Hoosier landscapes.

Remember these key takeaways: separate licenses are required for each period, youth hunters get an exclusive weekend before the spring opener, and fall firearms opportunities are limited to select counties. Always check in your harvest within 48 hours and follow transportation tagging requirements.

Whether you’re setting up on public land or have permission on private property, respect the resource, practice ethical hunting, and enjoy the incredible experience of matching wits with one of North America’s wariest game birds.

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Good luck this spring and fall—may your calls be answered and your tags filled! 🦃