Ontario Spring Wild Turkey Season Opening Soon

OFAH FILE: 842
April 23, 2013

Ontario Spring Wild Turkey Season Opening Soon
OFAH and OCOA promote a safe, responsible hunt

The last week of April is what tens of thousands of outdoor enthusiasts have been waiting for: the traditional start of wild turkey hunting in much of southern Ontario. This year the season opens April 25 and runs until May 31, including Sundays in those municipalities that support Sunday gun hunting. The Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters (OFAH) and the Ontario Conservation Officers Association (OCOA) commend everyone who will take to the field in celebration of our outdoor heritage, but remind all hunters to put safety first, and respect private property.

“Licensed hunters across southern Ontario will be in the field for the next five weeks, hoping to harvest a wild turkey for the table. A large percentage of us will be hunting on private property, through the generosity of a landowner. It is important that we take time before the season starts to make clear arrangements with them, and after the hunt, to thank them for the privilege of using their land,” said OFAH Executive Director, Angelo Lombardo. “In addition to this, it’s extremely important to remember that if successful, it is mandatory to report the bird by no later than noon the day after it’s harvested by calling 1-800-288-1155. The OFAH supports mandatory reporting as it provides wildlife managers with important information about populations, which help determine turkey hunting opportunities.”

“Trespassing is one of many complaints our officers respond to every season. We urge hunters to ensure they know the boundaries when hunting on private property and that they always obtain permission before entering,” said OCOA President, Joe McCambridge. “It’s also important to remember that it’s illegal to hunt within 400 meters of where bait has been deposited and that wild turkey hunting ends at 7:00 pm each day.”

Anyone with information about a natural resources or public safety related crime is encouraged to call the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources violation reporting line at 1-877-TIPS-MNR (847-7667), contact their local CO directly, or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

For more information about natural resources regulations and enforcement, visit www.ocoa.ca, or contact your local Conservation Officer. To view the Ontario 2013 Hunting Regulations Summary, visit www.ontario.ca/hunting.

With over 100,000 members, subscribers and supporters, and 710 member clubs, the OFAH is the largest nonprofit, charitable, fishing, hunting and conservation-based organization in Ontario, and the voice of anglers and hunters. Visit www.ofah.org for more information.

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