Wild Turkey Regulations Available

Hunters looking forward to hunting turkeys this fall in the Clearwater Region of Idaho will find increased season lengths and reduced tag prices in the 2002 Wild Turkey regulations now available at all license vendors and Fish and Game offices. New for the 2002 season is a late spring/fall general tag, which is valid for spring general hunts during May 10 to May 25, and during any fall general hunt. The late spring/fall general tag, as well as all fall general tag prices, were reduced from $18.00 to $12.00. However, tag fees for the spring general and all controlled hunts remain $18.00. In addition, successful fall controlled hunt applicants will have 20 additional days to hunt turkeys in units 8, 8A and 10A of the Clearwater Region. Controlled hunt application periods are January 15 to February 15 for the spring hunts, and May 1 to May 31 for the fall hunts. The season bag limit during the fall increased from one to two turkeys (either sex) each fall. The daily bag limit remains at one turkey per day, and no more than three turkeys may be taken in any calendar year. Mild winters, favorable spring weather and large areas of vacant habitat have allowed Idaho's turkey population to increase significantly. Transplant operations have also helped boost numbers in suitable areas not previously occupied. All quality habitat is now stocked and many birds are being pushed into marginal habitat where surviving is difficult. "Turkey hunting should be great again this year," Clearwater Region Wildlife Manager Jay Crenshaw predicts. "The population is increasing and hunters should take advantage of the increased opportunity." Providing extra harvest opportunity is a good way to utilize the many birds now available. Fall hunts are only possible while the population remains high. Eventually with unfavorable weather, turkey populations will decrease and fall hunting will have to be reduced.