Hunters took to forests and fields last Monday hoping to persuade a wily old tom turkey to get a little closer. That’s because April 6 was opening day for spring turkey hunting in all but eight southeastern counties of Oklahoma.

In the southeastern counties, spring turkey season will open April 18 for youths only and April 20 for all hunters.

All spring turkey seasons will close statewide May 6. “This spring has roared in, and with some above-average temperatures and rainfall, things are greening up fast. That can only mean one thing: Turkeys are starting to gobble and break up from their winter flocks,” said Bill Dinkines, Chief of Wildlife for the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation.

“Spring turkey hunting by far is my favorite season. It’s a great time to be out in the woods, spending time with family and friends, and building memories like my son and I have done for the past 20 years.

“Whether first-timers or seasoned hunters, I encourage everyone to get out and enjoy our great outdoors in pursuit of an elusive gobbler.”

The Department reminds everyone that the “Outdoors Are Always Open,” but everyone should comply with all COVID-19 health guidelines while enjoying the outdoors.

Turkey seasons will occur as usual this spring on private lands, ODWC areas and Oklahoma Land Access Program lands.

Other public lands may have restrictions in effect, and hunters planning to use those areas should contact the managing agency for the latest information.

Based on field reports submitted the past few days by ODWC personnel, habitat conditions are generally very good and bird numbers seem to be slightly down or comparable to last season.

Below is the northwest region report by Eddie Wilson, wildlife senior biologist:

Current gobbler activity: Birds have separated out from winter flocks and are currently strutting and gobbling.

Condition of habitat: Habitat conditions are good, with plenty of nesting cover. Vegetation is greening up rapidly.

Reports from landowners or scouting hunters: Bird numbers have been on the decline for the past three years throughout the region, especially in the Panhandle Counties.

WMA best bets: Be sure to check the regulations prior to hunting on a WMA. The limit is one bird on some WMAs including Cooper and Fort Supply. Hunting hours close at 7 p.m. on many of the WMAs. Canton, Cooper, and Fort Supply WMAs would be considered the best bets. Be sure to keep the Oklahoma Land Access Program areas in mind when considering a spring turkey hunting trip.

Tips for success: Be respectful to your fellow hunters. Be patient when calling a bird; give a tom plenty of time to respond to your call.

Mistakes to avoid: Hunting too close to roads and other hunters. Calling too much.

Opening-day expectations: Turkey numbers are down, however birds are currently using most region WMAs and a number of OLAP lands. I expect the mature birds to be in groups with hens on opening day, but birds are gobbling. All ODWC personnel are practicing social distancing so keep that in mind when approaching ODWC employees and the public. Be safe!