Maryland’s statewide spring wild turkey season kicks off this month, starting with the Junior Turkey Hunt on April 12, 2025, followed by the regular season for all hunters from April 18 through May 23. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) expects a promising season, citing recent growth in turkey populations across many parts of the state. Hunters of all ages will have a chance to pursue the prized birds as numbers rebound in key areas.
“Wild turkey populations remain strong across much of Maryland,” said Karina Stonesifer, director of the Wildlife and Heritage Service. “Turkey hunting is a great way to enjoy the springtime woods, and with some luck, hunters may even bring home a prized gobbler.” Her comments reflect optimism based on data from the DNR’s Summer Wild Turkey Observation Survey, which tracked average to above-average reproductive success in three of the past four nesting seasons. However, a dip in reproduction in 2023 may mean fewer vocal two-year-old turkeys this spring.
The Junior Turkey Hunt, set for April 12 statewide and extending to April 13 in select counties, is open to licensed hunters 16 and younger. They must be accompanied by an unarmed adult, 21 or older, holding a valid Maryland hunting license. The regular season begins April 18, with hunting hours from a half-hour before sunrise to noon through May 9. From May 10 to May 23, and during the Junior Hunt, hours extend to sunset. The daily bag limit is one bearded turkey, with a season total of two. Sunday hunting is allowed in certain counties, with specifics available on the DNR website.
Turkey numbers have been bolstered by favorable nesting conditions in recent years, according to the DNR survey. While the 2023 season saw lower reproductive success, the overall trend suggests a stable population. The National Wild Turkey Federation notes that Maryland’s diverse habitats—woodlands, farms, and wetlands—support thriving turkey flocks, making it a draw for hunters. The DNR encourages new hunters to join the season by completing its hunter education program to obtain a license.
Hunters should prepare for a transition in DNR’s harvest reporting system. The current website and app check-in process will soon shift to a new platform, potentially affecting availability. During this period, hunters are directed to use the phone check-in line at 1-888-800-0121. Full regulations, including license renewals and county-specific Sunday hunting dates, are accessible online.
Safety remains a top priority. The DNR advises hunters to keep decoys hidden until reaching a spot with clear visibility in all directions. Stalking with decoys or hiding behind them is discouraged. Hunters should stay alert, assuming others may be nearby, even on private land. Additional safety tips are outlined on the department’s website, reflecting best practices endorsed by groups like the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
The season offers a blend of tradition and opportunity, drawing both seasoned hunters and newcomers. With turkey populations holding steady and safety measures emphasized, Maryland’s spring hunt promises an active few weeks in the state’s woodlands.