Turkey season begins April 12

Accomack and Northampton counties are gearing up for spring turkey season. The season, which runs from April 12 through May 17, 2025, is part of the statewide effort to manage and sustain Virginia’s wild turkey population. Hunters are encouraged to prepare for the season by reviewing bag limits, legal methods, and reporting requirements.

During the season, hunters may harvest one bearded turkey per day, with a total limit depending on how many turkeys were taken during the fall season. The hunting hours are from one-half hour before sunrise until 12 noon from April 12 to April 27. However, beginning April 28 through May 17, hunting hours extend until sunset statewide.

Before the general season opens, a special Youth and Apprentice Spring Turkey Hunting Weekend will take place on April 5 and 6. This opportunity allows young hunters aged 15 and under, as well as apprentice hunters, to gain experience under the supervision of an adult mentor. The bag limit is one bearded turkey per youth/apprentice hunter for the weekend, and any turkeys harvested count against their season limit.

Hunters in Accomack and Northampton counties can use various methods, including modern firearms, muzzleloaders, archery tackle, and arrowguns. Decoys and blinds are permitted, but the use of electronic calls and dogs is prohibited, except for tracking wounded or dead turkeys. Additionally, when using a shotgun, hunters must use shot no larger than No. 2 fine shot during the spring season.

All harvested turkeys must be reported through Virginia’s telephone, mobile app, or internet reporting system. This requirement ensures accurate tracking of turkey populations and hunting activity, which helps inform conservation and management efforts.

The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) is also seeking public input on the draft 2025–2034 Virginia Wild Turkey Management Plan. Hunters and conservationists are encouraged to review and submit feedback before the public comment period ends on April 4, 2025.

As the season approaches, hunters are reminded to review local firearm ordinances and ensure they have the proper licenses and permissions to hunt legally. With a strong turkey population and an extended season, hunters in Accomack and Northampton counties can look forward to a good spring turkey season.