California Turkey Season 2026: Dates, Regulations, and Where to Hunt

Hunters must have a valid license, a Upland Game Bird Stamp, and use nonlead ammunition.

With the proper planning, hunters heading to the Golden State can hunt some of the country's most breathtaking landscapes and take home impressive birds. And we believe you must experience the Californian turkey season at least once as a hunter! Here's everything you need to know about this year's season and some insider tips to help you bring home that big one. 

Updated March 26, 2026

When Does the Turkey Season Open In California?

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) manages the turkey season and population. The season is categorized into spring and fall, with additional subcategories in the spring season.  

The daily limit is one (bearded), and the season limit is three.

Regulations and Licensing 

Aside from preparation, planning, and sorting your gear, compliance and understanding the licensing regulations are essential to avoid legal issues. 

To hunt turkeys in California, you'll need:

• A California hunting license (mandatory)
• An upland game bird stamp endorsement  

Note that the use of nonlead ammunition when hunting with firearms is a requirement when hunting in California, and wildlife officers will frequently check for compliance.

What Kind of Turkey Can You Hunt in California?

The wild turkey population has expanded throughout California thanks to dedicated conservation efforts and responsible and ethical hunting practices. Despite drought and wildfire that plagued the state for the previous decade, these efforts helped replenish turkey numbers. 

The Turkey density now covers nearly 18% of the state, and species diversity exists. 

When hunting in California, you'll come across several types of turkeys, including:

• Rio Grande turkey: The Rio Grande turkey is the most widespread species in California, located across the coastal ranges, the Sierra Nevada, and the Cascade foothills. 
   
• Merriam's: The Merriam turkey is a mountainous species found in the Transverse Ranges. However, it is most commonly found east of California, in states such as Colorado and Idaho. 
   
• Eastern and hybrid: The State has also released Eastern turkeys and various hybrid turkeys. 

No matter what type of turkey you come across during your hunt, make sure you hunt during the legal open seasons and follow all regulations. 

Rio Grande Turkey Characteristics

As the central turkey and most likely species you'll see during the California season, let's explore the Rio Grande Turkey a little deeper.

Appearance

Rio Grande turkeys weigh less than the Eastern Wilds, with an average male weight of 20 pounds and eight to thirteen for females. They're most easily recognized by their dark tan or buff tail feathers matched with greenish-copper body feathers. 

Habitat

Like most turkey subspecies, the Rio Grande turkey requires a range of habitats throughout its lifespan. In California, you'll find it around river valleys and riparian areas with good cover from brush and roosting trees from temperate forests. 

Diet

Highly adaptable and opportunistic eaters, the Rio Grande turkey favors wild oats, seasonal grasses, and acorns. Finding where they feed can help you target a good spot to wait for them to look for food in the mornings after leaving the roost. 

Habits

Gobblers attract a hen's attention by gobbling and strutting, and they are generally considered one of the louder and more vocal turkey subspecies. Their ranges and movement patterns can be seasonal, and they are known to form large, social flocks. 

Due to the diversity of the California landscapes, it's essential to tailor your research and hunting plans to the environment you target and mark in your HuntWise app.

How To Improve Your Chances of Tagging a Turkey in California

Typically, California turkey hunting has a success rate of around 40%. Here are a few tips to help you reach that magic number. 

Use Decoys Sparingly

Turkey decoys can be an exceptional strategy to lure in that big jake. Use the decoys early in the season and opt for hens. 

If you're setting up several decoys, set up one hen and one jake or tom. If you're frustrated that they're not rolling in, remember patience pays off (most of the time). 

Use a Blind When Necessary

California turkeys are noted for their excellent eyesight and weariness of out-of-the-ordinary visuals. If using a hunting blind, match the pattern to the dense areas of mixed oak and pine woodlands, which are the areas of high turkey movement. 

Go for native patterns and blend in local foliage. While blinds are not the first choice for Californian turkey hunters, they can make a great base in adverse weather conditions.  

Use HuntWise to Scout Locations

Given the diversity of the California natural environment, mapping and preparation are invaluable.  

The HuntWise mapping features allow you to mark fruitful terrain, watering holes, and potential roosting locations. Remember that proximity to water is essential for providing vegetation, food, and shelter for the turkeys you hunt. 

Make California Turkey Season a Winner With HuntWise 

The California terrain can be stunning but sometimes challenging. E-scouting is essential to understanding the landscape and the best preparation for a successful hunt. 

Locking down valley lines with good coverage gives you the best chance to take home a prized tom. HuntWise will help you target the perfect combination for a turkey hotspot, whether public or private. You also have direct access to current landowner information (including phone numbers) through HuntWise. So, you don't have to miss out on a bird that crosses over a boundary line. 

If you plan to hunt during California turkey season, don't leave home without HuntWise! 
Download and try Pro and Elite features free for a week. 

Content reviewed and updated for the most recent season dates March 26, 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

We have answers to your questions about hunting turkeys in California!

Q: What is turkey season in California?

A: The main spring turkey season in California typically runs from late March through early May for bearded turkeys, with a fall season from November to December for either-sex birds. Exact dates vary slightly each year.

Q: Can you shoot a turkey with a .22 in California?

A: No, you can't shoot a turkey with a .22 in California. Turkeys must be hunted with legal methods such as shotguns (using nonlead shot), archery equipment, or other approved methods—rifles like a .22 are not allowed.

Q: Where is the best place to hunt turkeys in California?

A: Top areas to hunt turkeys in California include the Sierra Nevada foothills, parts of Northern California, and the Central Coast—especially regions with oak woodlands, grasslands, and reliable water sources.

Q: How much is a non-resident turkey tag in California?

A: In California, non-resident turkey tags typically cost around $125–$150 per tag, though fees can change slightly each year.

Q: How many turkeys can you shoot in CA?

A: In California, the turkey limit is usually one turkey per day, with a spring season limit of three bearded turkeys total.

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