WA Fall Turkey Season: Everything You Need to Know

The Fall Turkey Season in Washington State

The fall turkey season in Washington State is a time for hunters to enjoy the great outdoors and challenge themselves with a challenging and rewarding pursuit. With a variety of habitats to choose from, including forests, fields, and mountains, there’s a place for every type of turkey hunter in Washington. And with a healthy population of turkeys, there’s a good chance of success for those who put in the time and effort.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the fall turkey season in Washington State. We’ll discuss the best time to hunt, the different types of habitats where turkeys can be found, and the gear and tactics you’ll need to be successful. We’ll also provide tips on how to attract turkeys and how to call them in.

So if you’re looking for a challenging and rewarding hunting experience, be sure to give fall turkey hunting in Washington State a try!

Date Region Hours
September 15 Eastern 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
September 16 Western 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
September 17 All Regions 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Dates and regulations

The fall turkey season in Washington state runs from September 15 to December 31. The season is divided into two periods: the early season, which runs from September 15 to October 31, and the late season, which runs from November 1 to December 31.

Early season

During the early season, hunters are allowed to take one bearded turkey per day. The daily bag limit is two bearded turkeys, and the possession limit is four bearded turkeys.

Late season

During the late season, hunters are allowed to take two bearded turkeys per day. The daily bag limit is four bearded turkeys, and the possession limit is eight bearded turkeys.

Where to hunt turkeys in Washington

Turkeys can be found in a variety of habitats in Washington state, including forests, fields, and meadows. Some of the best places to hunt turkeys include:

* Oak woodlands
* Ponderosa pine forests
* Douglas fir forests
* Brushy fields
* Meadows

Preparation

There are a few things you can do to prepare for a successful turkey hunt in Washington state.

Gear

The following gear is essential for turkey hunting in Washington state:

* A shotgun
* A turkey choke
* A turkey shell
* A turkey call
* A decoy
* A turkey vest
* A pair of binoculars
* A turkey knife
* A headlamp
* A GPS unit
* A map of the area you’ll be hunting

Calling turkeys

Calling turkeys is an essential part of turkey hunting in Washington state. There are a variety of different turkey calls available, and each one has its own unique sound. The type of call you use will depend on the time of year and the weather conditions.

* During the early season, when turkeys are more vocal, you can use a variety of calls, including yelps, clucks, purrs, and gobbles.
* During the late season, when turkeys are less vocal, you may need to use a more aggressive call, such as a cutting or drumming call.

Tracking turkeys

Tracking turkeys can be a difficult task, but it can also be very rewarding. Here are a few tips for tracking turkeys in Washington state:

* Look for tracks and droppings.
* Look for signs of scratching and dusting.
* Look for areas where turkeys have been feeding.
* Look for areas where turkeys have been roosting.

Hunting turkeys in Washington state can be a challenging and rewarding experience. By following these tips, you can increase your chances of success.

Q: When is the Washington fall turkey season?

A: The Washington fall turkey season runs from September 15 to December 31.

Q: What are the bag limits for fall turkey hunting in Washington?

A: The bag limit for fall turkey hunting in Washington is two turkeys per day, with a possession limit of four turkeys.

Q: What are the legal hunting methods for fall turkey hunting in Washington?

A: The legal hunting methods for fall turkey hunting in Washington are:

* Shotgun
* Rifle
* Bow and arrow

Q: What are the recommended hunting strategies for fall turkey hunting in Washington?

A: The following are some recommended hunting strategies for fall turkey hunting in Washington:

* Scouting is essential. Find out where the turkeys are roosting and where they are feeding.
* Hunt during the early morning and late evening hours. This is when turkeys are most active.
* Use a variety of calling techniques to attract turkeys.
* Be patient and persistent. Turkey hunting can be a challenging but rewarding experience.

Q: What are some common mistakes that fall turkey hunters make?

A: The following are some common mistakes that fall turkey hunters make:

* Not scouting enough.
* Hunting in the wrong areas.
* Not using the right calling techniques.
* Getting impatient and giving up too easily.

Q: Where can I find more information about fall turkey hunting in Washington?

A: The following are some resources where you can find more information about fall turkey hunting in Washington:

* [Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife](https://wdfw.wa.gov/hunting/turkey/)
* [National Wild Turkey Federation](https://www.nwtf.org/)
* [Turkey Hunting Nation](https://www.turkeyhuntingnation.com/)

Conclusion:

The Washington state fall turkey season is a time for hunters to enjoy the great outdoors and challenge themselves with a challenging and rewarding pursuit. With a little planning and preparation, anyone can have a successful turkey hunt in Washington. By following the tips in this article, you can increase your chances of success and make the most of your time in the field.

Here are a few key takeaways to remember:

* Turkeys are most active in the early morning and evening hours.
* Scouting is essential for finding turkeys and learning their habits.
* The best calling and decoys can help you attract turkeys within shooting range.
* Patience and perseverance are essential for success.

With a little effort, you can enjoy a successful turkey hunt in Washington this fall. So get out there and enjoy the great outdoors!

Author Profile

Mike Thompson
Mike Thompson
Hello, fellow turkey enthusiasts! I'm Mike Thompson, a proud resident of the picturesque state of Missouri, renowned for its thriving turkey population and favorable hunting conditions. For over a decade, I've roamed the woods, valleys, and peaks of our beautiful state, learning every nook, cranny, and secret that turkey hunting has to offer. My track record? Well, let's just say I've bagged more turkeys than there are days in November, and each hunt has added a story to my ever-growing book of experiences.

However, as much as I love the thrill of the hunt, what truly fuels my passion is the joy of sharing my knowledge with others. That's why I created this platform. This site is not just a testament to my journey but a beacon for all those who are looking to embark on their own turkey hunting adventures. Whether you're a beginner eager to get started or a seasoned pro seeking advanced tips, you'll find a wealth of information here.

From understanding turkey behavior, tracking techniques, and the best equipment to use, to the do's and don'ts of turkey hunting, this site is a comprehensive guide to all things turkey. So, strap on your boots, pick up your gear, and let's embark on a journey together into the world of turkey hunting. Welcome to my site, and happy hunting!