Missouri’s Turkey Season 2026-2027: Spring Gobbler Hunting Details
You’re in the right place if you want to pursue jakes and longbeards throughout the Show-Me State this spring. With a robust population dispersed throughout a variety of habitats, from the agricultural plains up north to the undulating Ozark hills, Missouri provides some of the most rewarding wild turkey hunting opportunities in the nation. Everything you need to know about the 2026–2027 hunting season is covered in this guide, including exact dates, zone breakdowns, bag limits, and the rules that ensure the success of both hunters and birds.
We have everything you need, whether you’re a novice trying to purchase your first hunting license or an experienced caller looking for new public land access locations. Let’s get started.
Quick Overview
| Turkey Type | Season Dates (2026–2027) | Legal Methods |
|---|---|---|
| Eastern Wild Turkey | April 19 – May 9, 2027 (Spring Youth); April 19 – May 9, 2027 (Spring Regular) | Shotgun, archery, crossbow |
| Fall Turkey | October 1–31, 2026; November 11–20, 2026 | Shotgun, archery, crossbow |
All Turkey Seasons – Detailed Breakdown
| Season Name | Exact Dates | Zones/Regions | Bag Limit | Permit Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring Youth | April 17–18, 2027 (Saturday–Sunday) | Statewide | 1 bearded bird per day; 2 per season | Youth permit + valid small game license |
| Spring Regular | April 19 – May 9, 2027 | Statewide | 1 bearded bird per day; 2 per season | Spring turkey permit + valid small game license |
| Fall Firearms | October 1–31, 2026 | Statewide | 1 turkey of either sex per permit | Fall firearms turkey permit |
| Fall Archery | October 1–31, 2026; November 11–20, 2026 | Statewide | 2 turkeys of either sex total | Fall archery turkey permit |
Note: Youth hunters must be ages 6–15 and accompanied by an adult age 18 or older who possesses a valid hunter education certificate.
More Bird Species 🕊️
While wild turkeys are the star of the show, Missouri also offers excellent upland bird hunting for those looking to diversify their seasons:
- Mourning Dove: September 1 – November 29, 2026 (North Zone); September 1 – October 30, 2026 (South Zone)
- Bobwhite Quail: November 1, 2026 – January 15, 2027 (statewide)
- Ring-Necked Pheasant: November 1, 2026 – January 15, 2027 (open counties only)
- Ruffed Grouse: October 1, 2026 – January 15, 2027 (limited northern counties)
These species add variety to your field time and help you stay sharp between spring gobbler pursuits. Just be sure to check county-specific regulations, as some areas have unique restrictions.
Missouri Wild Turkey Regulations 🌾
Understanding the rulebook isn’t just about staying legal—it’s about respecting the resource and ensuring future generations get to experience the thrill of a gobbler coming into range. Here’s what you need to know:
- Legal Weapons: Shotguns (10-gauge or smaller), muzzleloading shotguns, archery equipment (including crossbows during firearms seasons), and atlatl. Rifles and handguns are not permitted for wild turkey.
- Shooting Hours: One-half hour before sunrise to sunset during spring; one-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset during fall.
- Electronic Calls: Allowed statewide for both spring and fall hunts. From my experience preparing for spring hunts, pairing an electronic caller with good manual mouth calling can really help cover more ground when birds are henned up.
- Tagging Requirements: Immediately upon harvest, you must notch your permit to indicate the date and validate your bird. Turkeys must remain tagged during transport and storage.
- Hunter Orange: Not required during spring. During fall firearms seasons, hunters must wear a cap or hat with at least 250 square inches of blaze orange on their chest and back while moving to and from their hunting location.
- Decoys & Blinds: Legal statewide. Always place decoys with visibility in mind to avoid accidents—other hunters can mistake movement near decoys.
- Baiting Restrictions: Hunting over bait is prohibited. This includes grain, salt, or any feed placed to attract birds. You may hunt in areas with naturally occurring food sources or agricultural fields not specifically baited for hunting.
- Trespass Laws: You must have written or verbal permission to hunt private land. Missouri has an extensive Conservation Areas network offering excellent public land access, but check specific area regulations before heading out.
License & Tag Fees 🎟️
Pricing for the 2026–2027 period is consistent with Missouri Department of Conservation standards. Here’s the breakdown:
| License/Permit Type | Resident | Non-Resident |
|---|---|---|
| Small Game Hunting Permit | $12 | $88 |
| Spring Turkey Permit | $13 | $100 |
| Fall Firearms Turkey Permit | $13 | $100 |
| Fall Archery Turkey Permit | $13 | $100 |
| Youth Hunting Permit (under 16) | Free | Free |
Seniors age 65+ and landowners hunting their own property may qualify for reduced fees or exemptions—check with the Missouri Department of Conservation for eligibility. You can purchase licenses online through the Missouri Department of Conservation, by phone, or at authorized vendors across the state. Many experienced hunters also pick up their permits while grabbing hunting gear at local sporting goods retailers.
License Requirements
Who needs what? Here’s the official rundown:
- Age 16 and older: Must possess a valid small game hunting permit plus the appropriate turkey permit for the season you’re pursuing.
- Hunter Education: All hunters born on or after January 1, 1967, must complete a firearms safety training or hunter education course approved by the Missouri Department of Conservation before purchasing a hunting license.
- Youth Hunters (ages 6–15): May hunt for free during youth-only seasons but must be accompanied by a properly licensed adult. The adult may not hunt unless they also hold valid permits.
- Landowner Exemptions: Resident landowners and their immediate family may hunt on their own property without a permit in some cases, but turkey-specific permits are still generally required.
- Military & Disabled Veteran Discounts: Active duty military and qualifying disabled veterans may be eligible for discounted or free permits. Verify eligibility through the MDC website.
Always carry your permits, hunter education card, and photo ID while afield. Conservation agents do check, and it’s a simple way to stay compliant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s the best time of day to hunt turkeys in Missouri?
A: Most hunters find the first two hours after sunrise to be prime time during spring, as gobblers are actively seeking hens. Mid-morning can also be productive if you’re patient and willing to call birds off the roost later. During fall, all-day hunting is legal, and afternoon setups near feeding areas can yield results.
Q: Can beginners hunt during the spring season?
A: Absolutely. As long as you’ve completed your hunter education course (if required by age) and purchased the proper permits, you’re welcome to participate. Consider tagging along with an experienced mentor for your first outing—it makes a world of difference.
Q: Are electronic calls legal in Missouri?
A: Yes. Electronic calls are permitted for wild turkey hunting in both spring and fall seasons statewide.
Q: Can I hunt on public land without special permission?
A: Missouri offers more than 1,000 conservation areas and wildlife management areas open to public land access for hunting. No special permission is needed beyond your valid licenses and permits, but always check area-specific rules (some have quota hunts or restricted zones).
Q: Do I need a separate permit for each spring turkey I harvest?
A: No. Your spring turkey permit allows you to harvest up to two bearded birds during the season (one per day). You’ll notch the permit each time you tag a bird.
Q: What should I do if I accidentally shoot a hen during spring?
A: Contact a conservation agent immediately. Accidental violations should be reported, and honesty goes a long way. Spring hunts are bearded-bird-only, so positively identify your target before pulling the trigger.
Q: Can non-residents hunt Missouri’s spring season?
A: Yes, but permits are limited and issued via a drawing. Non-residents should apply early and be prepared for higher license costs. If you’re planning a multi-state hunt, you might also check Kansas turkey season dates to coordinate your trip.
Conservation & Safety
Missouri’s robust wild turkey population didn’t happen by accident. It’s the result of decades of careful management, habitat restoration, and science-based harvest regulations by the Missouri Department of Conservation. When you purchase a permit, you’re directly funding wildlife research, land management, and education programs that keep ecosystems healthy and hunting opportunities sustainable.
Here are a few safety reminders to keep your hunt both successful and incident-free:
- Positively identify your target before shooting. Never shoot at sound, movement, or color alone.
- Avoid wearing red, white, or blue clothing—these colors resemble a gobbler’s head.
- Use a tree wider than your shoulders when setting up, and sit with your back against it.
- Call only when you’re ready to shoot, and be aware that your calls may attract other hunters.
- Unload firearms when crossing fences, streams, or difficult terrain.
- Let someone know where you’ll be hunting and when you plan to return.
Respect private property boundaries, pack out what you pack in, and practice ethical shot placement. Clean, quick kills honor the game and reflect well on all hunters.
Wrap-Up
Missouri’s wild turkey hunting season for 2026–2027 is looking to be another amazing chance for hunters of all skill levels. The Show-Me State remains a premier location for spring gobbler pursuits, with well-defined dates, easily comprehensible regulations, and a wealth of public and private land options. Preparation is essential, whether you’re honing your box call, purchasing new hunting gear, or simply taking in the pre-dawn chorus of gobblers resonating across the ridge.
Double-check your permits, confirm your hunting license is up to date, and consider taking a moment to scout your spots ahead of time—it’ll pay off when opening day arrives. For more detailed regulations or to purchase your licenses, visit the official Missouri Department of Conservation website or stop by a local vendor.
Stay safe, hunt ethically, and enjoy every moment in the field. Tight lines and steady aim—here’s to a successful hunt.