Many hunters look forward to the New Hampshire turkey season. Hunting enthusiasts around the state relish the opportunity to bag a turkey as gobbles resound across the woods. The season lasts for about a month and formally starts in May. The youth turkey hunt in April is also open to young hunters, giving them a wonderful chance to hone their fieldcraft abilities. This page will review all the information you want for a successful turkey hunt in New Hampshire in 2023, such as the hunting laws, dates, bags, permits, and more.
New Hampshire Turkey Season 2023
In New Hampshire, wild turkeys have successfully made a return as a result of wildlife restoration activities. The state now offers plenty of options for spring and autumn turkey hunting and a unique kids hunt. Hunting during these seasons requires a turkey permit and an NH hunting license for individuals who are 16 years old or older. Bag restrictions and other information are included on this page below.
NH Spring Turkey Hunt
| NM Spring Turkey | Season Start Date | Season End Date |
|---|---|---|
| Statewide | 1-May | 31-May |
| WMUs H1, H2, J2, K, L or M | 1-May | 31-May |
NH Youth Turkey Hunt
| NM Youth Turkey | Season Start Date | Season End Date |
|---|---|---|
| Statewide | 29-Apr | 30-Apr |
| WMUs H1, H2, J2, K, L or M | 29-Apr | 30-Apr |
NH Fall Turkey Hunt
| NM Fall Turkey Season | Season Start Date (*TBC) |
|---|---|
| Archery (A) | Sept 15–Dec 8 |
| Archery (B–M) | Sept 15–Dec 8 |
| Fall Shotgun (D2, G, H1, H2, I1, I2, J1, J2, K, L, M) | Oct 10–16 |
Note: Fall season dates are tentative and to be confirmed (*TBC); visit this page at regular intervals to keep updated
Bag Limits
| Season | Bag Limit | WMUs | Gender |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall Season | 1 | Any | Either sex |
| Spring Season | 1 or 2 | H1, H2, J2, K, L or M | Male or bearded |
| Youth Hunt | 1 or 2 | H1, H2, J2, K, L or M | Male or bearded |
Turkey Licenses
| License Type | Fee | Residency Status |
|---|---|---|
| Current NH Regular Hunting or Archery license required unless under age 16. | $16.00 | All ages |
| Annual Hunting License | $26 | Resident |
| Annual Hunting License | $56 | Non-Resident |
| Combination Hunting and Fishing License | $32 | Resident |
| Combination Hunting and Fishing License | $93 | Non-Resident |
| Youth Hunting License | $5 | Resident/Non-Resident |
| Apprentice Hunting License | $10 | Resident/Non-Resident |
Hunting Regulations
- Adult hunters over 16 must have a Regular NH. Hunting, Combination, or Archery License and a Turkey License to hunt turkeys in New Hampshire. Youth hunters under 16 just need a turkey license. Small Game Licenses do not allow turkey hunting.
- New Hampshire turkey hunters may take two turkeys each year using two tags from their license. Hunters may capture one male or bearded turkey in spring and another in autumn. Springtime turkeys may be male or bearded. In certain WMUs, two spring turkeys may be taken, but the first must be registered beforehand. The same rules as spring applies to taking one or two turkeys during youth weekend. One turkey may be taken nationwide in the autumn using a bow and arrow, crossbow in WMU L or M, or shotgun or crossbow in specific units.
- Seasonal New Hampshire turkey hunting hours vary. Fall hunting is permitted from dawn to dusk. Spring hunting is permitted 30 minutes before dawn till noon.
- Hunters must tag and register a turkey within 24 hours. Hunting allows particular shotguns and loads. A hunter who has taken a turkey may only call for another licensed turkey hunter and cannot hold a bow, arrow, crossbow, or weapon other than a pistol or revolver.
- Turkey hunters must sign their arrows or bolts. Fixed blade broadheads must be 7/8 inches wide and have no size restriction. Retractable blade broadheads must open at least 7/8 inches. Turkey hunters must use crossbows that fulfill the Crossbows portion of the Deer Hunting Regulations and have a minimum draw weight of 30 lbs. The License Information states that crossbows may be used for turkey hunting.
- Untagged turkeys are prohibited. After killing a turkey, fill out the tag and attach it. Taking a turkey using a rifle, dogs in spring, bait, electronic calling devices, live decoys, cooperative drives, or an air rifle is unlawful. Turkeys in trees cannot be taken.
Note: For complete list of turkey hunting regulations in New Hampshire you review the NH Fish and Game Department website.
FAQs on New Hampshire Turkey Season
When does the spring turkey hunting season begin and end in New Hampshire?
In New Hampshire, the spring turkey shooting season runs from May 1 through May 31, 2023. Hunters can take one turkey nationwide throughout this season and an extra one in WMUs H1, H2, J2, K, L, or M. One or two turkeys, both male or bearded, are the total allowed for the season.
When is the youth turkey hunt in New Hampshire?
The young people’s turkey hunt in New Hampshire is April 29–30, 2023. During this hunt, youth are permitted to take one turkey from the state or another bird from the WMUs H1, H2, J2, K, L, or M. One or two male or bearded turkeys may be joined for the youth hunt.
What licenses are required to hunt turkeys in New Hampshire?
To hunt turkeys, hunters must have both a Regular NH. Hunting, Combination, or Archery License (16 years or older). The taking of turkeys is not permitted with a small game license. Youth hunters (those under 16) do not need a Turkey License, but they do require a Hunting, Combination, or Archery license.
Are there any additional fees associated with turkey hunting in New Hampshire?
Yes, each killed turkey must pay a $2 registration fee.
Can a person assist another turkey hunter in New Hampshire?
Yes, a hunter who has already bagged a turkey may aid another duly authorized hunter by calling only. It is forbidden for the person appealing for help to shoot or try to shoot a bird.
