Minnesota’s Turkey Season 2026-2027: Hunting Licenses and Periods
If you’ve ever sat in a blind at dawn, listening to the woods wake up around you, you know that moment when a gobbler sounds off for the first time—it’s pure magic. Minnesota offers some genuinely rewarding opportunities for wild turkey enthusiasts, whether you’re chasing your first tom or adding to years of spring memories. This guide walks you through everything you need to plan a successful and legal hunt during the 2026-2027 period, from dates and zones to licensing details and helpful regulations.
We’ll cover the official spring and fall frameworks, explain how the state’s management units work, break down permit costs, and answer the most common questions hunters ask. Let’s get into it.
Quick Overview
| Bird Type | Open Dates (2026-2027) | Legal Methods |
|---|---|---|
| Wild Turkey (Spring) | April 15 – May 24, 2026 | Shotgun, bow, crossbow; no rifles |
| Wild Turkey (Fall) | Late September – Early November 2026 | Shotgun, bow, crossbow; bearded birds or either sex |
All Turkey Seasons – Detailed Table
| Season Name | Exact Dates (2026-2027) | Zones / Regions | Bag Limit | Permit Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring Turkey A | April 15 – April 21, 2026 | Statewide (all zones) | 1 bearded bird | Required: Spring license + valid permit |
| Spring Turkey B | April 22 – April 28, 2026 | Statewide (all zones) | 1 bearded bird | Required: Spring license + valid permit |
| Spring Turkey C | April 29 – May 5, 2026 | Statewide (all zones) | 1 bearded bird | Required: Spring license + valid permit |
| Spring Turkey D | May 6 – May 12, 2026 | Statewide (all zones) | 1 bearded bird | Required: Spring license + valid permit |
| Spring Turkey E | May 13 – May 19, 2026 | Statewide (all zones) | 1 bearded bird | Required: Spring license + valid permit |
| Spring Turkey F | May 20 – May 24, 2026 | Statewide (all zones) | 1 bearded bird | Required: Spring license + valid permit |
| Fall Turkey | September 26 – November 8, 2026 | Select management units | 1 bird (either sex) | Required: Fall license + valid permit |
| Youth-Only Spring | April 11 – April 12, 2026 | Statewide (all zones) | 1 bearded bird | Youth must have valid spring permit |
Minnesota divides the spring hunt into six time periods (A through F), each lasting about one week. Hunters apply for permits during a lottery period, and successful applicants select their preferred week. From my experience preparing for spring hunts in the Upper Midwest, this system spreads pressure across the breeding period and gives everyone a fair shot at drawing a tag.
More Bird Species 🕊️
Beyond wild turkeys, Minnesota offers excellent upland bird opportunities throughout the year:
- Ruffed Grouse: September 17, 2026 – January 3, 2027 (statewide); daily limit of 5 birds.
- Sharp-tailed Grouse: September 26 – December 13, 2026 (select northern zones); daily limit of 2 birds.
- Ring-necked Pheasant: October 10, 2026 – January 3, 2027 (statewide); daily limit of 2 roosters.
- Gray Partridge (Hungarian Partridge): October 10, 2026 – January 3, 2027; daily limit of 4 birds.
- Woodcock: September 19 – November 2, 2026; daily limit of 3 birds.
These dates provide a full calendar of wing-shooting action, especially once the leaves start turning and pointing dogs hit their stride.
Minnesota Turkey Regulations 🌾
Understanding the rules isn’t just about staying legal—it’s about respecting the resource and ensuring future generations get to enjoy these hunts. Here’s what you need to know:
- Legal Weapons: Shotguns (10-gauge or smaller), bows, and crossbows are permitted. Rifles and handguns are not legal for wild turkey hunting in this state.
- Shooting Hours: One-half hour before sunrise until sunset during spring; one-half hour before sunrise until one-half hour after sunset during fall.
- Decoys and Calls: Electronic calling devices are prohibited during spring hunts. Manual calls (box calls, slate, diaphragm) and decoys are legal.
- Land Access: Always obtain landowner permission before hunting private property. Minnesota has abundant public land access through Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) and some state forests—check the DNR’s interactive map for specifics.
- Tagging and Transport: Immediately attach your harvest tag to the bird’s leg upon recovery. Keep the tag attached during transport and storage. The beard must remain naturally attached if required for inspection.
- Ethical Expectations: Take only ethical shots within your effective range. Identify your target completely—never shoot at sound or movement alone.
Respecting these rules protects both hunters and the wild turkey population, which has rebounded beautifully across the state thanks to sound management.
License & Tag Fees 🎟️
Pricing is straightforward, though it’s always smart to double-check the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) website before buying:
- Resident Spring Turkey License: Approximately $26
- Non-Resident Spring Turkey License: Approximately $83
- Resident Fall Turkey License: Approximately $26
- Non-Resident Fall Turkey License: Approximately $83
- Youth (under 16): Typically reduced or free with proof of hunter education; verify current rates with DNR.
- Senior Discount: Minnesota residents aged 65+ may qualify for reduced-cost or lifetime license options.
Licenses can be purchased online through the Minnesota DNR Electronic Licensing System (ELS), at authorized license agents (sporting goods stores, bait shops), or by phone. If you’re planning a guided hunt, confirm whether licenses are included in your package—most reputable outfitters will help you navigate the process, but the permit remains your responsibility.
For hunters investing in quality hunting gear or considering hunting licenses in multiple states, budgeting early helps avoid last-minute surprises. Some folks also look into outdoor insurance for trip protection, especially when traveling from out of state.
License Requirements
Who needs what? Here’s the breakdown:
- All hunters aged 16 and older must possess a valid small game hunting license plus the appropriate turkey license and permit.
- Hunter Education: Anyone born after December 31, 1979, must complete a state-approved firearms safety training course before purchasing a license. Minnesota accepts certifications from other states and Canadian provinces.
- Youth Hunters (under 16): Must be accompanied by a licensed adult (within immediate control) unless they have completed a firearms safety course. Youth-only weekend offers a fantastic introduction to the sport.
- Landowner Exemptions: Minnesota landowners hunting on their own land may qualify for certain fee exemptions, but turkey-specific permits are still generally required—check with DNR for details.
Even if you’re an experienced hunter, reviewing the current regulations each year is a smart habit. Rules evolve, and staying informed keeps everyone safe.
FAQs Section
Q: What’s the best time of day to hunt turkeys in Minnesota?
A: Early morning is prime time. Gobblers often sound off from the roost just before sunrise, giving you a chance to set up nearby. Mid-morning can also be productive as birds break from hens and start searching. Afternoons are quieter but worth trying, especially later in the period when breeding activity peaks.
Q: Can a complete beginner hunt turkeys here?
A: Absolutely. Minnesota’s youth-only weekend is a perfect starting point for young hunters, and many Wildlife Management Areas are beginner-friendly. Pair up with an experienced mentor, take your firearms safety training, and start with basic calls and decoys. There’s a learning curve, but everyone starts somewhere.
Q: Are electronic calls allowed during spring hunts?
A: No. Electronic or battery-powered calling devices are prohibited during the spring period. Manual calls—like box calls, slate, or mouth diaphragms—are perfectly legal and often more effective once you learn the cadence.
Q: How much public land is available for turkey hunting?
A: Minnesota has over 1,400 Wildlife Management Areas totaling more than 1.3 million acres, plus portions of state forests open to hunting. The DNR’s online map tool helps you scout public land access points, parking areas, and habitat types. It’s a goldmine for DIY hunters.
Q: Do I need a separate permit for each spring time period?
A: Each permit is valid for one of the six spring time blocks (A–F). If you want to hunt multiple periods, you’ll need to apply for and draw additional permits, subject to quota limits.
Q: Can I hunt fall turkeys over bait?
A: No. Baiting is illegal for wild turkey hunting in Minnesota, both spring and fall. This rule helps maintain fair chase ethics and reduces disease transmission risks.
Q: What should I do if I harvest a bird on public land?
A: Immediately attach your tag, note the location, and transport the bird legally (tag visible). If you’re hunting a WMA, be aware of any special check-in requirements or parking rules. Respect other hunters and pack out what you pack in.
Conservation & Safety Add-Ons
Minnesota’s wild turkey population wasn’t always this healthy. Restoration efforts beginning in the 1970s, combined with careful quota setting and habitat work, brought these birds back from near-absence to thriving numbers. Your license fees directly fund ongoing habitat management, research, and law enforcement. By following bag limits and reporting your harvest, you’re contributing to that legacy.
Safety reminders that every hunter should internalize:
- Treat every firearm as if it’s loaded. No exceptions.
- Always identify your target and what’s beyond it. Turkey hunting happens in thick cover—never shoot at sound or movement.
- Wear hunter orange when required by law (some states mandate it during fall; Minnesota does not require it for spring turkey, but check fall rules). Even when not required, an orange hat or vest can prevent tragic mistakes.
- Communicate with other hunters. If you set up near someone, a quiet heads-up avoids conflicts and improves safety.
- Know your effective range. For shotguns, that’s typically 40 yards or less with modern loads. Practice at the range before opening day.
These aren’t just tips—they’re non-negotiable principles that keep our woods safe and our sport respected.
If you’re planning trips to neighboring states, you might want to compare frameworks. Hunters often cross borders for extended trips, and understanding how different regions manage their populations helps you become a more versatile outdoorsman. For instance, checking out the Michigan turkey season can offer insights into Great Lakes hunting strategies, while a quick look at the Wisconsin turkey season gives you a broader regional perspective.
Additionally, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources publishes annual hunting regulations, season updates, and interactive maps—always verify the latest information on their official site before heading out.
Conclusion
Minnesota’s wild turkey hunting opportunities for 2026 and 2027 are looking as good as ever. There will be spring and autumn frameworks that will be good for hunters of all skill levels. Getting ready is the most important thing, whether you’re getting a permit for that perfect week in late April or planning a fall trip to the northern management units. Before you go into the woods, make sure you know the rules, respect the resource, and check the dates and bag limits again.