Hunters can hunt with shotguns or pistols with a charge of no more than 2 and no less than 9, or bows and arrows.
The start of this new season is the result of a wild turkey reintroduction effort initiated by DEC in the mid-1990s.
In 2009, the region had its first fall-only wild turkey season. DEC carefully monitored this new season over the next few years and confirmed that the Long Island wild turkey population could continue to thrive under hunting pressure. Long Island has proven to be an area where wild turkey can be hunted safely and successfully, with no hunting safety incidents reported during the entire 14 fall seasons.
Seasonal dates: May 1-31
Hunting time: Half an hour before sunrise to noon
How to use: Hunters can hunt with shotguns or pistols with a charge of no more than 2 and no less than 9, or bows and arrows. Hunters may not use crossbows or rifles. Handguns are not permitted while hunting on state land.
Valid licenses and labels: Hunters must have a valid New York State hunting license and turkey license to participate in the hunt.
WMU 1C Spring Turkey Baggage Allowance:
-
Not more than one bearded turkey per day; and -
Not more than one bearded turkey in a Wildlife Management Unit (WMU) 1C
Additional information about New York State Turkey Hunting Regulations It can be found on DEC’s website.
Successful hunters are strongly encouraged to bring harvested birds to the Ridge Hunter Check Station at 484 Randall Road, Ridge, NY. DEC staff will record biological data to help assess seasonal and population structure.Visiting the checkpoint is not mandatory, but all harvested birds must be reported within 48 hours by phone (1-866-426-3778) or through DEC Game Harvest Report Page. For checkpoint hours of operation, visit DEC Long Island Hunting Pages Or call the Region 1 Wildlife Office (631-444-0310).
Read the full press release The status of wild turkeys and where Long Island springs open.
Additional Information:
long island hunting
Long Island Public Game Areas
Public Hunting Opportunities in Suffolk, Long Island
Suffolk County DEC Manages Land Use Conditions
