Ohio’s spring turkey season is off to a strong start, with young hunters leading the charge. According to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, youth hunters checked 1,941 wild turkeys during the state’s special youth-only weekend held April 18–19 in the south zone. The two-day hunt was open to hunters ages 17 and younger, each required to be accompanied by a non-hunting adult.
A Strong Start in the South Zone
The south zone, which covers 83 of Ohio’s 88 counties, continues to produce consistent numbers during the youth season. This year’s total of 1,941 birds marks a noticeable jump from 2025’s 1,625 birds and sits well above the recent three-year average of 1,681.
Several counties stood out during the 2026 youth weekend. Highland and Tuscarawas counties led the way with 65 birds each, followed closely by Guernsey (62), Monroe (57), and Meigs (56). Adams, Gallia, and Harrison counties each reported 55 birds, while Carroll (52), Brown (50), and Noble (50) rounded out the top producers.
Northeast Youth Weekend Still Ahead
While the south zone has already wrapped its youth hunt, young hunters in the northeast zone will get their opportunity April 25–26. That zone includes Ashtabula, Cuyahoga, Geauga, Lake, and Trumbull counties, where later nesting activity shifts the season slightly.
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As of April 19, the Division of Wildlife has issued 6,472 youth turkey permits, which remain valid throughout the broader spring season.
2026 Spring Season Dates
Ohio’s spring turkey season is split into two zones to account for regional differences in turkey behavior and nesting cycles:
- South Zone: April 25 – May 24
- Northeast Zone: May 2 – May 31
Hunters are limited to one bearded turkey for the season.
Last year’s full-season harvest numbers highlight the strength of Ohio’s turkey population. The top five counties in 2025 were Ashtabula (516), Monroe (462), Belmont (459), Guernsey (419), and Muskingum (406).
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To participate in Ohio’s spring turkey season, hunters must carry a valid hunting license along with a turkey permit unless exempt. All harvested birds must be checked by 11:30 p.m. on the day of harvest.
Game check and licensing can be completed through the HuntFish OH app, the state’s licensing system, authorized agents, or by phone.
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