Unlocking Wisconsin’s Youth Turkey Hunt: Dates and Regulations You Need to Know!

Attention all young hunters and outdoor enthusiasts in the great state of Wisconsin, the time has come to dust off your gear and get ready for an exciting opportunity! As spring approaches, so does one of the most highly anticipated events for youngsters – The Youth Turkey Hunt. This annual event provides young hunters with a chance to experience the thrill and challenge of turkey hunting in Wisconsin. But when exactly is this event taking place? In this article, we will dive into all the details you need to know about the upcoming Youth Turkey Hunt in Wisconsin. So whether you are a first-time participant or a seasoned veteran, keep reading to ensure you don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity.

The state of Wisconsin offers a variety of hunting opportunities for both residents and non-residents alike. One of the most popular hunts in the state is the youth turkey hunt, which provides young hunters with a unique experience and the opportunity to develop their skills. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about when the youth turkey hunt takes place in Wisconsin.

Understanding the Youth Turkey Hunt in Wisconsin

The youth turkey hunt in Wisconsin was established to encourage young hunters to participate in this popular hunting activity. The hunt is open to hunters under the age of 16 and provides them with an early opportunity to pursue wild turkeys before the regular season begins. It also serves as a way for experienced hunters to mentor and pass down their knowledge and love for hunting to the younger generation.

When Does it Take Place?

The youth turkey hunt in Wisconsin takes place on the weekend before the regular spring turkey hunting season. For 2021, it will take place on April 17th and 18th. This allows young hunters to experience prime turkey hunting before any pressure from other hunters or opening day jitters arise.

Licenses and Permits Required

In order to participate in the youth turkey hunt, both resident and non-resident hunters must obtain a valid spring turkey license or conservation patron license. Additionally, all hunters must purchase a valid harvest authorization (formerly known as a tag) prior to participating in the hunt. These can be purchased online through Go Wild or at any authorized license vendor in Wisconsin.

Eligibility Requirements

As mentioned before, only hunters under 16 years of age are eligible for this special hunt. They must also possess a hunter safety certificate or have completed hunter education requirements in another state if they are under age 12. However, if the young hunter is within one year of their hunter safety certificate expiring, they may still participate in the youth turkey hunt.

Accompanied by an Adult

During the youth turkey hunt, all hunters must be accompanied by a participating adult, 18 years or older. The adult must also possess a valid turkey license and harvest authorization. The accompanying adult may not carry a gun or bow during the youth hunt but may assist in calling and directing the young hunter.

Bag Limits and Regulations

The bag limit for the youth turkey hunt is one bearded or male wild turkey, which counts toward the regular spring season limit of one bird. All other regulations for regular spring turkey hunting apply to the youth hunt as well. It is important to review and understand these regulations before heading out to hunt.

Safety First

As with any hunting activity, safety should always be a top priority. This is especially important during the youth turkey hunt where inexperienced hunters are accompanied by an adult. Before heading out, make sure all hunting equipment is in good working condition and that both hunters are wearing fluorescent orange for visibility. Keep communication open between both parties at all times and practice safe firearm handling.

The Wisconsin Youth Turkey Hunt is a wonderful opportunity for young hunters to experience prime hunting before the regular season begins. It not only promotes responsibility, ethics, and safety in hunting but also serves as a way for experienced hunters to pass down their knowledge to future generations. Whether you are an experienced hunter looking to mentor or a parent wanting to teach your child about hunting, make sure to take advantage of this special hunt in Wisconsin. Happy hunting!

Youth Turkey Hunt: A Guide to Wisconsin’s Hunting Season

Wisconsin is known for its beautiful landscapes, vibrant wildlife, and rich hunting culture. Among the numerous hunting opportunities offered by the state, one stands out for its emphasis on future generations – the Youth Turkey Hunt. This event provides young hunters with a unique chance to experience all that Wisconsin has to offer while learning about conservation and responsible hunting practices. In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about the Youth Turkey Hunt in Wisconsin.

What is the Youth Turkey Hunt in Wisconsin?

The Youth Turkey Hunt is an annual event that allows young people aged 10-15 to participate in a two-day turkey hunt. It was first introduced in 2009 as part of the Mentored Hunting Program, which allows young and novice hunters to learn from experienced mentors. The goal of this hunt is to introduce youth to safe and responsible hunting practices while encouraging them to appreciate and respect nature.

This special hunt takes place before the regular spring turkey season, allowing young hunters a better chance of success since they will not be competing with experienced hunters. Participants are required to have completed a hunter education course and be accompanied by an adult mentor who possesses a valid hunting license.

When does it take place?

The Youth Turkey Hunt takes place on the last weekend of April, which typically falls on the weekend before the regular spring turkey season begins. For 2021, it is scheduled for April 17th-18th. The first day starts half an hour before sunrise and ends at sunset, while the second day starts half an hour before sunrise and goes until noon.

This two-day event is specifically designed with young hunters’ safety in mind, allowing them time to fully understand their surroundings and make well-informed decisions without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

Where can you hunt?

All participants of the Youth Turkey Hunt must hunt on land where they can legally hunt during the regular spring turkey season. This includes both private and public lands, such as state parks, state recreation areas, and national wildlife refuges. It is essential to always check the specific regulations of your chosen hunting location before participating in the Youth Turkey Hunt.

How do you apply for the hunt?

All participants must apply online for a permit to participate in the Youth Turkey Hunt through the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources’ website. The application deadline is March 1st, and permits are issued through a random drawing process. Successful applicants will be notified by mail or email and receive a special turkey tag to use during the hunt.

What to expect during the Youth Turkey Hunt?

The Youth Turkey Hunt follows all regular spring turkey hunting regulations except for some specific safety requirements. For example, all adult mentors must have western-style hunter orange at least 50% fluorescent orange visible from all directions when moving, using a firearm or crossbow, not while standing against a tree or other background.

Youth hunters can use any legal firearm or bow for spring turkey seasons if that’s what their mentor chooses to use during this special hunt. Mentors are also allowed to assist young hunters with calling, but they cannot take any shots for them.

Young hunters are encouraged to practice safe gun handling skills at all times since it is essential not only for their safety but also those around them.

Turkey hunting tips for young hunters

For many young hunters, this might be their first time participating in a deep-woods adventure. Here are some important tips that’ll help ensure an enjoyable experience:

– Familiarize yourself with your equipment – Whether using a shotgun or bow, make sure you know how it works and practice shooting before heading out into the field.
– Dress appropriately – Wear comfortable, layered clothing that will keep you warm and dry. Make sure to wear proper footwear for roaming the woods.
– Learn about turkey behavior – Understanding turkey behavior can help you make educated hunting decisions, increasing your chances of a successful hunt.
– Stay safe – Always follow safety rules and regulations. Keep your firearm pointed in a safe direction at all times and do not take any risks.
– Be patient – Hunting is not just about bagging a trophy; it’s also about enjoying nature and the entire hunting experience.

The Youth Turkey Hunt in Wisconsin provides young hunters with an unforgettable outdoor experience while promoting responsible hunting practices. We hope this guide has given you a better understanding of this event and the opportunity to participate in it. As always, remember to adhere to all regulations and stay safe while enjoying this unique hunting adventure.

1. When is the Youth Turkey Hunt in Wisconsin?
The Youth Turkey Hunt in Wisconsin typically takes place during the last weekend in April.

2. Who is eligible to participate in the Youth Turkey Hunt?
Youth hunters who are 15 years of age or younger and possess a valid deer hunting license or have successfully completed their hunter education course are eligible to participate in Wisconsin’s Youth Turkey Hunt.

3. How do I obtain a turkey hunting license for a youth hunter in Wisconsin?
You can purchase a hunting license for your youth hunter online through the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources website, at any authorized sales agent, by phone, or through the Go Wild mobile app.

4. Are adult hunters allowed to accompany youth hunters during the Youth Turkey Hunt weekend?
Yes, adult mentors 18 years of age and older with a valid turkey hunting license are allowed to accompany youth hunters during Wisconsin’s Youth Turkey Hunt.

5. Is there an extra permit required for the Youth Turkey Hunt weekend?
No, a spring turkey harvest permit is not required for youth hunters participating in the Youth Turkey Hunt weekend. They must possess a valid turkey hunting license or have successfully completed their hunter education course.

6.Is there a bag limit for youth hunters during the Youth Turkey Hunt weekend?
Yes, youth hunters are allowed to harvest one male or bearded turkey during the Youth Turkey Hunt weekend. If they do not harvest a turkey, they can still participate as long as they have their permit and follow all other regulations.

In conclusion, the Wisconsin youth turkey hunt is an annual event that takes place in the spring season and provides young hunters with a valuable opportunity to learn and develop their hunting skills in a safe and controlled environment. The event not only promotes the conservation of turkeys, but also instills important values such as patience, responsibility, and respect for nature in the youth of Wisconsin.

Through partnerships between the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and various organizations, the youth turkey hunt continues to grow in popularity and participation each year. This highlights the importance of fostering a strong hunting community and ensuring that future generations have access to outdoor recreational activities.

Furthermore, it is evident that the youth turkey hunt has had positive impacts on both the youth participants and their families. The hunt not only provides a bonding experience but also creates lasting memories and traditions that can be passed down for generations to come.

It is also crucial to note that while the youth turkey hunt may focus on providing opportunities for young hunters, it ultimately contributes to overall population management efforts for wild turkeys. By targeting specific age groups, this event helps maintain a healthy balance in turkey populations.

In conclusion, the Wisconsin youth turkey hunt is an integral part of preserving hunting traditions, fostering responsible hunters, and promoting conservation efforts. It serves as a valuable learning experience