A Brief Intro to the Spring Turkey Hunt Tradition

A group of turkeys

Spring turkey hunting is a beloved tradition in many parts of the world. It is a time when when hunters shake off the winter blues and head back into the woods, hoping to spot a big bird. But where did this tradition come from? In this blog, we explore the history of spring turkey hunting and how it has evolved over time.

Turkey hunting can be traced back to the early days of the Native Americans, who used turkey hunting as a way to feed their tribes. They used various techniques to capture the birds, including decoys and calls to lure them in. Turkey feathers were also used for ceremonial purposes and as adornments for clothing.

With the arrival of European settlers, turkey hunting became a popular activity in America. Early explorers would often use turkey hunting as a way to supplement their food supply, and it quickly became a popular pastime. In fact, in the early 1900s, turkey hunting was so popular that it was nearly responsible for the extinction of the species. 

To combat this problem, conservation efforts were put in place, including the creation of the National Wild Turkey Federation in 1973. This organization worked to restore the wild turkey population by using scientific research and implementing hunting regulations to ensure the survival of the species.

Today, turkey hunting is a regulated activity, with specific seasons and bag limits in place to protect the turkey population. Hunters use a variety of techniques to capture turkeys, including calling, decoying, and stalking. Some hunters prefer to use traditional methods, such as using a bow or a muzzleloader, while others use more modern equipment, such as shotguns or rifles.

In addition to being a popular hunting activity, turkey hunting has also produced some competitive events. Turkey calling competitions are held across the country, and hunters take pride in their ability to mimic the sounds of the wild turkey.

Spring turkey hunting has a rich history that spans back to the early days of the Native Americans. It has evolved over time, from a means of survival to a popular pastime and sport. While the regulations around turkey hunting have changed over time, the love of the hunt and the thrill of the chase remain as strong as ever.