Making sense of the hunting regulations can be difficult for some. To make this easier, we’re breaking down the full regulations in an easy-to-read format!
2018 Spring Season Dates
| Season | Dates | Daily Bag Limit | Possession Limit |
| Junior Seasons | Mar 24 – Mar 25 May 7 – May 20 |
1 bearded* | 3 bearded turkeys for spring season |
| General & Falconry Season | Mar 31- May 6 | ||
| Archery | May 7 – May 20 |
* Includes bearded hens and jakes. Beard must be visible through breast feathers.
Shooting Hours
The shooting hours for the spring wild turkey season shall be from one-half hour before sunrise to 5:00 p.m. Online Sunrise/Sunset Calendar
Methods of Take
Shotgun
Shotguns 10g and smaller may be used. Must be incapable of holding more than three shells in the magazine and chamber combined. Plugs used in a shotgun magazine cannot be capable of being removed without disassembling the gun. Shot size greater than #2 cannot be used for wild turkey. This means #1, BB sizes and buckshot cannot be used as a legal method of take. Muzzle-loader shotguns are legal as long as they follow the guidelines above.
Non-lead ammunition is required for all areas of California, including private land, when hunting wild turkey.
Falconry
Falconry is a legal method of take, but there are no turkey-specific regulations for falconry. Please see falconry regulations and info.
Archery and Crossbows
Use of a broadhead greater than 7/8″ in diameter is required. Mechanical broadheads are measured in the open position. Archers may not be in possession of a firearm while hunting during archery season, unless in possession of a concealed carry permit or hunter is an active peace officer.
Air Guns
Air guns are legal as a method of take for wild turkeys. Pellet size must be .177 or larger. Lead ammo is legal for use with air guns when not in a California Condor Zone.
