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New Wild Turkey Hunting Regulations
Changes to wild turkey management have been implemented by the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF). The Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters (OFAH) has been involved since the reintroduction of this species, and has always looked for ways to make turkey management better in Ontario. This past spring, we asked for your input on a number of issues facing turkey hunters and we heard from more than 1,300 people (click here for results). Thanks to all of you who took the time to participate. Your input has helped lead to proposed changes to wild turkey management in Ontario.
MNRF’s New Regulatory Changes
- Eliminate separate wild turkey hunter education course (content added to the Ontario Hunter Education Program (OHEP))
- New spring wild turkey season opening in WMU 36 (Sault Ste. Marie), and new fall wild turkey season in WMU 94 (Chatham/Kent)
- Brand new bowhunting opportunities October 1- 31 in WMUs that currently have a fall hunt.
- Spring wild turkey opener to be April 25 every year, regardless of what day of the week it falls on.
- Shot size #7 to be legalized for wild turkey hunting (in addition to #4,5,6)
- The minimum bow requirements for hunting wild turkey have been clarified in the regulations to match the requirements for white-tailed deer (e.g. minimum draw weight and length)
Note: Hunters who have already taken the Ontario Hunter Education Course are not required to take any additional training in order to purchase a wild turkey hunting licence.
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Report sick or dead wildlife to the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative (CWHC)
Report illegal activity to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF)