As the year 2023 approaches, hunting enthusiasts in Indiana are looking forward to the state’s turkey season. With every new year comes new changes and updates to the regulations that govern the season. This article will highlight some of the key changes to the Indiana turkey season regulations for 2023.
Turkey Hunting Dates
One of the most significant updates to the turkey season regulations is the change in hunting dates. The 2023 turkey hunting season in Indiana will take place from April 19th to May 14th. This change is a shift from the previous year when the turkey hunting season ran from April 20th to May 25th.
Bag Limits
Indiana has implemented new bag limits for turkey hunting in 2023. A hunter is now allowed to harvest two bearded turkeys, regardless of gender, during the season. The previous year allowed for two bearded turkeys during the regular season and one additional bearded turkey during the youth season. This change was made to ensure the population of turkeys in Indiana is protected.
License Fees
There is no change in the license fees for turkey season. Individuals who wish to hunt must obtain a turkey license through the Indiana Department of Natural Resources. The cost is $25 for residents and $118 for non-residents. Hunters who are 17 years old or younger are exempt from the fee.
Firearms and Ammunition
In the upcoming season, hunters are only allowed to use shotguns, muzzleloaders, and archery equipment. No rifles or hand-held firearms are permitted. Shotguns must be loaded with size 4-6 shot. It is also prohibited to use shotguns loaded with slugs, buckshot or other projectiles designed for big game hunting.
Hunting Hours
Hunting hours have been altered for the 2023 season. Hunting hours now begin one-half hour before sunrise and end at noon every day. This change was made to avoid hunting during the hottest part of the day and to protect the turkeys’ breeding season.
Private Property Hunting
Hunters entering private property for turkey hunting are required to have written permission from the property owner before hunting. This is to ensure the safety of the property owner and also avoid conflict between the hunter and the owner.
Registration
Every turkey harvested must be tagged with an official state tag, which is offered when obtaining a turkey hunting license. The hunter must tag the turkey immediately after harvest and before the turkey is moved from the hunting location. The tag must remain on the turkey until it is processed.
Conclusion
It is important for hunters to understand and follow the Indiana turkey season regulations. This ensures the safety of the hunters, the protection of the turkeys, and compliance with the law. As the 2023 turkey hunting season approaches, hunters should prepare themselves for these new changes in regulations, including the shift in hunting dates and the new bag limits. By following all the regulations, Indiana hunting enthusiasts can enjoy a safe and successful turkey hunting season.
