Turkey

Turkey hunting is a sport that dates back to our ancient settlers, but has gained popularity in recent years. Turkeys have excellent eyesight and hearing, can run up to 25 miles-per-hour, and are constantly aware of their surroundings. This makes hunting the turkey a stimulating experience. 

There are two different turkey hunting seasons in Texas, in the fall and spring. The fall turkey hunting season generally lasts from November to January with two-day Special Youth Seasons in November and January. The spring turkey hunting season is from March to early May, with Special Youth Seasons in March and May.

Turkeys are larger game birds. The female turkey is known as "hen," and the male turkey is referred to as a "tom" or "gobbler." The gobbler is generally a larger bird, growing to about 20 pounds. Gobblers have spurs and wattles, a distinctive fleshy hang from the underside of the beak and down the neck, and a fan-shaped tail of dark iridescent feathers. Hens are smaller than a gobbler, growing to about 12 pounds, and are much less colorful.

Turkey Gobblers can be hunted with a shotgun or bow and arrow. Hunters will also use a wide variety of calls to attract a gobbler within range. Since turkeys are incredibly aware of their surroundings, it is important to wear camouflage gear and be extremely quiet when turkey hunting.