GEORGIA. (WALB) - Turkey hunters are gearing up for the 2026 hunting season. Opening day for private landowners is set for March 28. Hunters using public land like Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) start on April 4.

For the 2026 season, hunters can harvest one male Turkey (gobbler) per day per hunter. Over the season, hunters are only allowed to harvest two gobblers in total. The season ends May 15 for both private and public land hunters.

All Georgia Turkey hunters 16 and older are required to have a hunting license and big game license unless they are hunting on their own private land. To purchase them, click here. Hunters 15 and younger must be accompanied by an adult, at least 18 years old with a valid hunting license and big game license. A license can also be purchased over the phone by calling 1-800-366-2661.

In addition to two licenses, turkey hunters must obtain a free harvest record. A digital copy can be found in the Go Outdoors Georgia app. Before moving the harvested turkey, the hunter must fill in the date and county where the turkey was taken from. Within 24 hours of the harvest, the hunter must complete the reporting process through Georgia Game Check. For a full list of 2026 hunting regulations, click here.

Data indicates hunters should see more 2-year-old birds this year, according to WRD Wild Turkey Project Coordinator Emily Rushton. Ruston says 2024 numbers showed reproduction rates averaged 1.8 poults per hen. Poults are baby turkeys. “We would expect to have an increase in hunter success this season,” Ruston said.

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