Kansas Turkey Season 2026-2027: Latest Dates, Licenses, and Regulations Now Available!
If you’re gearing up for spring gobbler chases across the Sunflower State or planning a fall youth hunt in the Kansas prairies, you’re in the right place. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about the Kansas turkey hunting season for 2026-2027—from precise opener and closer dates to permit costs, zone breakdowns, and a few insider tips to help you tag that long-bearded tom. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a first-timer clutching a box call, we’ve got you covered with straightforward, up-to-date info (no fluff, promise).
Let’s dive into what makes hunting wild turkeys in Kansas such a rewarding experience—and how to do it by the book.
🗓️ Quick Overview: Kansas Turkey Season Types & Dates (2026-2027)
Here’s a snapshot of what the 2026-2027 hunting calendar looks like for wild turkeys in Kansas. Note that these dates apply statewide unless otherwise specified, and always double-check with the official Kansas Department of Wildlife & Parks before heading out.
| Season Type | Open Date | Close Date | Legal Methods | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Youth & Disabled Spring | April 4, 2026 | April 5, 2026 | Shotgun, archery, crossbow | Mentored youth ≤15 years; disabled permit holders |
| Spring Turkey (Archery) | April 6, 2026 | April 12, 2026 | Archery equipment only | Statewide; great for bowhunters |
| Spring Turkey (General) | April 13, 2026 | May 31, 2026 | Shotgun, archery, crossbow, muzzleloader | Main spring gobbler season |
| Fall Turkey (Archery) | October 1, 2026 | December 31, 2026 | Archery equipment only | Either-sex harvest; check unit regs |
| Fall Turkey (Firearms) | October 1, 2026 | January 31, 2027 | Shotgun, muzzleloader, archery | Extended opportunity through winter |
All dates are inclusive. Shooting hours typically run from 30 minutes before sunrise to sunset (verify current regs).
📋 All Turkey Seasons in Kansas: Detailed Breakdown
Kansas offers a generous timeline for pursuing Rio Grande wild turkeys, the state’s primary subspecies. Here’s a closer look at each segment:
🌸 Spring Turkey Seasons
Spring is prime time. Toms are gobbling, strutting, and responding to calls—making it the most popular (and thrilling) period for hunters.
- Youth & Disabled Spring Turkey
📅 April 4–5, 2026
Open exclusively to hunters 15 years old and younger (must be accompanied by a non-hunting adult) and permitted disabled hunters. A fantastic way to introduce young hunters to the sport. Only one spring permit is allowed per youth hunter. - Spring Archery-Only
📅 April 6–12, 2026
One week reserved for compound bows, recurves, and longbows (minimum 40 lb. draw at 28″ or peak draw weight for compounds). Crossbows are legal for those with disability permits. If you love the challenge and the close encounters, this is your window. - Spring General (All Methods)
📅 April 13–May 31, 2026
This is the big one—nearly seven weeks of opportunity. Shotguns (20-gauge or larger, shot size no larger than #2), muzzleloaders (.40 caliber or larger), archery gear, and legal crossbows are all fair game. Most hunters punch their tags during this stretch. Expect competition for public land spots on opening weekend, but the action stays hot well into May if you’re patient.
Permit Details:
Kansas sells spring turkey permits on a limited-quota basis by unit. You’ll need to apply during the drawing period (usually in late winter/early spring). Leftover permits often go on sale shortly after the draw. Residents can purchase up to two spring permits; nonresidents are capped at two as well. You may harvest one bearded turkey (or turkey with visible beard) per permit.
🍂 Fall Turkey Seasons
Fall hunting is a different ball game—less gobbling, more woodsmanship. Hens and poults are legal, so scout flock patterns and feeding areas.
- Fall Archery
📅 October 1–December 31, 2026
Runs concurrently with much of the fall firearms period but is archery-exclusive. Either-sex harvest is allowed. Perfect if you want a quieter woods experience or are chasing that September scouting intel into October. - Fall Firearms
📅 October 1, 2026–January 31, 2027
A whopping four-month window with shotgun, muzzleloader, and archery methods all valid. Either sex. Some units may have special restrictions or closures, so verify the unit-specific regs in the official guidebook. Fall hunting overlaps with deer seasons, which can make for a busy (but productive) woods.
Permit Details:
Fall permits are generally available over-the-counter and are valid statewide (check for unit exceptions). Bag limit is typically one bird per permit, either sex. Residents and nonresidents can usually buy multiple fall permits, but confirm current limits with KDWP.
🕊️ Related Bird Species & Opportunities in Kansas
While Rio Grande wild turkeys steal the spotlight, Kansas offers hunting for other upland birds that pair nicely with a multi-species trip:
- Ring-necked Pheasants 🌾
Iconic in the wheat and milo fields of western and north-central counties. Season typically runs early November through January. - Northern Bobwhite Quail
Found statewide, especially in grasslands and CRP cover. Season mirrors pheasant dates in many units. - Greater Prairie-Chickens
Limited-quota draw hunts in select areas; a bucket-list bird for upland enthusiasts. - Mourning Dove & Eurasian Collared-Dove
September opener for doves gives you a warm-up before the fall bird bonanza.
If you’re extending your stay, consider combining a spring gobbler hunt with shed antler hunting or scouting for next fall’s deer and pronghorn opportunities. For hunters looking at neighboring states, check out the Nebraska turkey hunting season or Colorado turkey hunting season for more Great Plains action.
📜 Kansas Turkey Hunting Regulations (2026-2027 Highlights)
Staying legal keeps you in the field and protects the resource. Here are key regs every hunter must know:
✅ Legal firearms: Shotgun (20-ga. or larger, #2 shot or smaller); muzzleloader (.40-cal. or larger single projectile); archery (40 lb. minimum draw or equivalent for compounds); crossbow (disabled permit or during general/fall seasons where specified).
✅ Shooting hours: 30 minutes before sunrise to sunset (verify annually).
✅ Tagging & reporting: Validate your permit immediately upon harvest; report online or via phone within 24 hours (or by the next business day).
✅ Bearded bird rule (spring): Only turkeys with a visible beard may be harvested during spring. Fall allows either sex.
✅ Decoys & calls: Allowed and encouraged; electronic calls are prohibited for turkeys.
✅ Hunter orange: Not required for spring turkey; required for fall turkey during deer firearm seasons (consult calendar).
✅ Sunday hunting: Legal on private land and most public lands (some WMAs may restrict; check unit regs).
✅ Baiting: Hunting over bait (grain, salt, etc.) is illegal in Kansas. Stay clean.
✅ Transport & possession: Keep your carcass tag attached until you reach your final destination or a check station.
Breaking these rules can result in fines, loss of hunting privileges, and forfeiture of your bird. Not worth it.
🎟️ Kansas Turkey License & Permit Fees (2026-2027)
Pricing is subject to legislative changes, but here’s what you can expect for the current season cycle:
| License/Permit Type | Resident | Nonresident |
|---|---|---|
| Hunting License (annual) | $27.50 | $97.50 |
| Spring Turkey Permit | $17.50 each | $52.50 each |
| Fall Turkey Permit | $12.50 each | $42.50 each |
| Youth Hunting License | $7.50 | $7.50 |
| Disability Hunting Permit | Free (with proof) | Free (with proof) |
| Hunter Education Exemption (one-time) | $7.50 | $7.50 |
Pro tip: Buy your licenses and apply for permits online through the Kansas Department of Wildlife & Parks website or via authorized vendors. Leftover spring permits can sell out fast in popular units, so don’t snooze on the draw deadline.
Youth hunters (under 16) may hunt with just the youth license and applicable permit—no separate adult hunting license needed. Nonresident prices reflect Kansas’s strong turkey population and quality hunts.
📖 Kansas Turkey License Requirements
Before you load your shotgun shells, make sure you’re square on the legal front:
- Hunter Education: All hunters born on or after July 1, 1957, must complete a state-approved hunter education course or purchase a one-time hunter education exemption (lets you hunt with a mentor while you complete the course).
- Valid Hunting License: You must possess a current Kansas hunting license (or qualify for an exemption like active military on leave, landowner privilege, etc.).
- Turkey Permit: Spring and fall permits are separate. You cannot hunt turkeys without the specific permit for that season in your possession.
- HIP Certification: Kansas requires Harvest Information Program (HIP) registration for migratory bird hunters. While turkeys aren’t migratory, if you’re hunting doves or waterfowl on the same trip, don’t forget your HIP number.
- Age Restrictions: Youth hunters must be at least 11 years old to hunt big game (including turkeys) with a firearm, or any age with archery equipment under direct supervision.
Keep your license and permits on your person (paper or digital via the KDWP app) and be ready to show them to any conservation officer.
❓ Kansas Turkey Hunting FAQs
Q: Can I use a .410 shotgun for turkeys in Kansas?
A: No. Kansas regulations require a 20-gauge or larger shotgun for turkey hunting. A .410 is below the legal threshold.
Q: How many spring turkey permits can I buy?
A: Residents and nonresidents may each apply for and purchase up to two spring turkey permits, subject to unit quotas and drawing results.
Q: Are hens legal during spring season?
A: No. Spring regulations allow harvest of bearded turkeys only (birds with a visible beard). Fall seasons allow either-sex harvest.
Q: Do I need hunter orange in the spring?
A: Not required for spring turkey. However, during fall seasons that overlap with deer firearm seasons, hunter orange is mandatory (check the exact overlap dates annually).
Q: Where can I find public land to hunt?ks?
A: Kansas offers Walk-In Hunting Access (WIHA) tracts, wildlife management areas, and some state parks open to hunting. The Kansas Department of Wildlife & Parks website and mobile app have maps and landowner contact details. Scout early—good spots fill up fast.
Q: When is the permit drawing for spring 2027?
A: Application deadlines typically fall in late February or early March for the April opener. Watch the KDWP calendar closely and set a reminder.
Q: Can I hunt turkeys on Sundays?
A: Yes, Sunday hunting is legal on private land and most public lands in Kansas. Some wildlife areas may have specific closures—always verify.
🏁 Wrapping It Up
Kansas remains one of the top turkey hunting destinations in the Midwest, blending wide-open prairie landscapes with river-bottom woodlands that echo with gobbles each spring. The 2026-2027 seasons offer ample opportunity—from the early youth weekend in April to the extended fall firearms window running into January 2027. With reasonable permit costs, generous bag limits, and a robust Rio Grande population, there’s never been a better time to chase longbeards in the Sunflower State.
Remember to apply for your spring draw permits early, scout your chosen unit (public or private), practice your calling, and double-check all regulations before opening day. Respect the land, follow the rules, and you’ll be rewarded with thrilling hunts and (hopefully) a freezer full of wild turkey.
Good luck out there, and safe hunting! 🦃🏹
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