The opening of this new season is the result of wild turkey reintroduction efforts DEC initiated in the mid-1990s.
In 2009, the first fall-only wild turkey season opened in the region. DEC carefully monitored this new season over the ensuing years and confirmed the Long Island wild turkey population could continue to thrive while under hunting pressure. Long Island proved to be a region where safe and successful hunting of wild turkey was possible, with no hunting safety incidents reported throughout 14 fall seasons.
Season Dates: May 1-31
Hunting Hours: One-half hour before sunrise until noon
Manner of Taking: Hunters may hunt with a shotgun or handgun loaded with shot no larger than number 2 and no smaller than number 9, or with a bow. Hunters may not use crossbows or rifles. Handguns are not permitted while hunting on State lands.
Valid License and Tags: Hunters must have a valid New York State hunting license and a turkey permit to participate in the hunt.
Spring Turkey Season Bag Limit for WMU 1C:
- No more than one bearded turkey per day; and
- No more than one bearded turkey in wildlife management unit (WMU) 1C
Additional information on NYS Turkey Hunting Regulations can be found on DEC’s website.
Successful hunters will be strongly encouraged to bring harvested birds to the Ridge Hunter Check Station located at 484 Randall Road, Ridge, NY. DEC staff will be recording biological data to help evaluate the season and population structure. Visiting the check station will not be mandatory, but all birds harvested must be reported within 48 hours by phone (1-866-426-3778) or via DEC’s Game Harvest Reporting webpage. For check station hours of operation, visit DEC’s Hunting on Long Island webpage or call the Region 1 Wildlife Office (631-444-0310).
Read the full press release for the status of wild turkey and areas open for the spring season on Long Island.
Additional information:
Hunting on Long Island
Long Island Public Hunting Areas
Public Hunting Opportunities in Suffolk County, Long Island
Conditions for Use of DEC-Managed Lands in Suffolk County
