Mississippi is a great location for hunters of all skill levels because it provides various turkey hunting options, from public areas to private clubs. We will explore the dates, rules, and other details of the season. Mississippi offers opportunities for hunters of all skill levels and experience levels.
Mississippi Turkey Season
Youth hunters 15 and under will get a one-week head start on the next spring season in Mississippi, followed by a standard season for everyone else. To hunt on public land while not a resident for the first two weeks of the season, you must have a special Public Land Endorsement. Adult hunters may take one gobbler with a 6-inch beard or longer days, with a cap of three every spring hunting season. Public feedback is now being taken on proposed modifications to the length of the season, including an obligatory tagging system for harvested birds and a shortened season.
MS Youth
| Youth Season | Start Date | End Date |
|---|---|---|
| Spring Youth Portion | 8-Mar | 14-Mar |
Spring
| MS Spring Turkey | Start Date | End Date |
|---|---|---|
| Regular Spring Turkey Season | 15-Mar | 1-May |
Nonresident Hunt
| Season | Start Date | End Date |
|---|---|---|
| Nonresident Hunt | 15-Mar | 28-Mar |
Fall
| Season | Start Date | End Date |
|---|---|---|
| Fall Firearms Hunt | 15-Oct | 15-Nov |
Bag Limit
| Hunting Category | Daily Limit | Spring Season Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Adult Hunters | 1 adult gobbler or 1 gobbler with a 6-inch or longer beard | 3 |
| Youth Hunters (15 years and younger) | 1 gobbler of choice (any age) | 3 |
| Non-Resident Hunters on Public Lands | 1 adult gobbler or 1 gobbler with a 6-inch or longer beard | 3 |
| Fall season | 2 turkeys, which may be of either sex |
Hunting Licenses
| License/Permit | Requirement | Cost for Non-Residents |
|---|---|---|
| Public Land Permit (MDWFP) | Required for non-resident shooters chosen to hunt on a Wildlife Management Area in Mississippi during a particular time period | N/A |
| 3-Day All-Game License | Allows the use of bow and primitive weapons | $125-$150 |
| 7-Day All-Game License | Excludes the use of archery and primitive weapons | $125-$150 |
| Spring Turkey Permit | Required for non-resident hunters to go turkey hunting on public lands | $50 |
| Non-Resident Public Lands Turkey Endorsement | Must be obtained for free along with Spring Turkey Permit | N/A |
Hunting Regulations
- Mississippi hunters must submit spring turkey harvests to the MDWFP Game Check system by 10 p.m. Spring turkeys requires a current harvest reporting record. The hunter may supply a harvest reporting record, use the MDWFP smartphone app, or use a paper copy. Hunters must sign and date the harvest report before transporting a bird.
- Hunters may submit their harvest to the MDWFP reporting application, the Game Check website, or contact 1-800-BE-SMART to complete Game Check. Hunters get confirmation numbers after harvesting. This helps the state control turkey numbers and maintain sustainable hunting. Hunters must record their harvest immediately and correctly to avoid fines.
- During spring gobbler season turkey hunting, Mississippi only allows shotguns, compound, re-curve, Crossbows, and longbows. Shotguns must utilize the number two shot. People with quadriplegia may rifle-hunt.
- Dogs is prohibited during the spring season, except for in designated enclosures.
Note: For complete Mississippi regulations, you may review them on the MDWFP website.
FAQs
When is the Mississippi turkey hunting season?
Mississippi’s spring turkey hunting season typically starts in the middle of March and lasts through the end of April.
What are the bag limits for turkey hunting in Mississippi?
A daily bag limit of one mature gobbler and a season-high three. Jakes (young male turkeys) are not subject to a bag restriction during the spring hunting season.
Do I need a license to hunt turkeys in Mississippi?
A hunter must possess a current Mississippi hunting license and a turkey hunting permit. When hunting on open public lands between March 15 and February 28, nonresident hunters must obtain a special, free Public Land Endorsement in addition to their regular licenses.
What are the laws regarding firearms and ammunition for turkey hunting in Mississippi?
The kind of firearms and ammunition that may be used for turkey hunting in Mississippi are, in fact, subject to certain laws. Hunters may only take turkeys using shotguns, archery equipment, or muzzleloading weapons. Shotguns must be 10 gauge or less; only No. 4 shot or smaller may be used. The draw weight of an archery bow must be at least 35 pounds, and broadheads must have at least two sharp edges. Guns used for muzzleloading must be.40 calibre or greater and may only fire lead or lead alloy bullets.
Are there any public lands in Mississippi where I can hunt turkeys?
Yes, turkey hunting is permitted on several public lands in Mississippi. The DeSoto National Forest in the southeast of the state, the Holly Springs and Tombigbee National Forests in the northwestern part of Mississippi, and the Homochitto National Forest in the southwest are some of the most well-liked public properties.
