Spring Turkey Hunting Season- Bearded and Jakes

The 9 Lakes region is known as an outdoor sportsman’s playground for locals and visitors. Daniel Boone hunted these forests, while Native Americans cherished the bounty of wild game found here. The fall season classically draws hunters to the woods for large game hunts including deer, bear, elk, and wild turkey.

In the spring, there is a lottery system in place for spring turkey hunts in specified areas.  Application is made through the TWRA site.   Each year, the WMA sets guidelines for these quota hunts.

Wild turkeys found in the 9 Lakes region are Eastern Wild Turkey, the same species that graced the tables from the Puritan days. These large bird can grow up to four feet and require both forested areas to roost combined with open fields to feed.   Despite their size, the birds are agile and quick to flight.

To enjoy your adventure, come prepared:

Know your seasons: Spring requires a permit. Hunting hours begin 30 minutes before legal sunrise and end 30 minutes after legal sunset.  A special hunt session is set aside for youth.

Know your location: Hunting land in the 9 Lakes region includes Wildlife Management areas, state lands, TVA public Lands, and national forests. Turkeys will flock, moving from location to location. Be aware of private land and respect boundaries   In the 9 Lakes region, most of the public hunting lands border several counties, so a hunt will take you across county lines. The region is made up of mountains and valleys, so be prepared for uneven terrain, large open fields, water hazards, and a lack of good cell phone service.

Know the rules: Hunters can bag one bearded turkey per day and up to two birds for the season.  Only one bird can be a Jake.   Be aware that if you are hunting adjacent to a lake during this season, that care is needed to avoid injuring boaters and anglers.  Please practice Leave No Trace principles when hunting or camping on public lands.  Learn more about prohibited firearms and equipment here.

Savor the day: Whether you bag a gobbler or learn a new turkey calling technique, or teach a child the love of hunting,  a day in the woods will be a day of adventure requiring patience, skill, and some luck.  The lore and lure of these woods is strong and will draw you back for another hunting adventure.