The wild turkey is not native to Idaho, but populations have taken off in Idaho since the Idaho Department of Fish and Game first introduced them in 1961. Three subspecies were introduced into the state:
- Merriam’s wild turkeys were the first subspecies to be introduced in 1961. The original releases occurred in the Salmon River drainage near Whitebird.
- Rio Grande wild turkeys were introduced into Idaho in 1982. These birds were released in suitable riparian habitat along the Boise, Payette, Snake, and Weiser rivers.
- Eastern wild turkeys were introduced near Dworshak Reservoir in 1985. These three subspecies have since been translocated across Idaho and hybrid wild turkeys now occur in many areas of the state. Today an estimated 50,000 wild turkeys roam the state’s public and private lands.
Turkey hunting opportunities are provided statewide; however, turkeys are most numerous in the Panhandle and Clearwater regions in north Idaho. Hunting opportunities abound on both public and private property. Add over-the-counter opportunities and multiple tags, and you have some of the best turkey hunting in the nation.
