Spring Turkey Season Opens in Wisconsin and Minnesota

Conservation officials urge hunters to remain vigilant and cautious during the spring turkey hunt.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 12:50am

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a spring turkey hunt, with sharp, overlapping planes of color representing the complex interplay between the hunter and the bird.A cubist interpretation of the strategic 'chess match' between hunters and their wily turkey prey during the spring hunting season.Superior Today

The spring turkey hunting season has officially opened in Wisconsin and Minnesota, with officials from both states emphasizing the importance of hunter safety and responsible practices. The Gitchee Gummee Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation is working to preserve turkey habitats and teach new hunters the proper techniques for ethically pursuing these elusive birds.

Why it matters

Wild turkeys were introduced to the Northland region in 1971 and have since become an important part of the local ecosystem and outdoor recreation culture. The spring turkey hunt provides both a sustainable food source and a challenging sport for experienced hunters, but safety must remain the top priority to protect both hunters and the turkey population.

The details

Wisconsin's spring turkey season is open for male birds only, and conservation wardens are urging hunters to be extremely cautious about their target identification before taking a shot. The Gitchee Gummee Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation organizes an annual 'learn to hunt' program to teach new hunters the proper techniques. Minnesota's spring turkey season is also currently open, while Michigan's will begin on May 2nd.

  • Wisconsin's spring turkey season just began.
  • Minnesota's spring turkey season is currently open.
  • Michigan's spring turkey season will start on May 2nd.

The players

Chuck Pooler

A member of the National Wild Turkey Federation who says turkey hunting is like a 'chess match' with the birds.

Christian Fischer

A Wisconsin Conservation Warden who is urging hunters to positively identify their targets and backdrops before taking a shot.

Gitchee Gummee Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation

A local chapter that works to preserve wild turkey habitats and teach new hunters how to safely and ethically pursue turkeys.

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What they’re saying

“It's like a chess match between you and the bird but it is rewarding to be out there with Mother Nature every morning.”

— Chuck Pooler, Member, National Wild Turkey Federation

“I know there can be a bit of a fever when you think you have that big turkey coming up towards you but if you can't positively identify both your target and your back stop, don't take the shot.”

— Christian Fischer, Wisconsin Conservation Warden

What’s next

The Gitchee Gummee Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation will be hosting its annual 'learn to hunt' program for new turkey hunters in the coming weeks to ensure safe and responsible practices during the spring season.

The takeaway

The spring turkey hunt is an important tradition in the Northland region, providing both a sustainable food source and a challenging outdoor activity. However, hunter safety must remain the top priority to protect both the hunters and the turkey population. Organizations like the National Wild Turkey Federation play a crucial role in preserving habitats and educating new hunters on ethical and responsible practices.