Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection

DEEP headquarters at 79 Elm Street in Hartford has partially re-opened to staff and members of the public as of Tuesday, February 3. The DEEP records room has re-opened. The DEEP Central Permit Processing Unit (CPPU) will be open to the public starting on Wednesday, Feb. 4. For updates, click here

Wild Turkey Hunting Roadmap

What you need to know to wild turkey hunt in Connecticut

Displaying wild tom turkeys

Required Firearms Safety Training

Complete or have completed a Traditional or Self-Study Firearms Class

-or-

Reciprocal certification from another state

-or-

Required Bow Hunting Training

CT Bow Hunting course

-or-

Certification is reciprocal from many states.

Learn more about hunter education in Connecticut

Call 860-424-3011 for assistance.

Legal Equipment

Shotgun

  • 10, 12, 16, or 20 gauge

Shells

  • 4, 5, 6, 7, and/or 7 1/2 lead shot

Bow

  • 40 lb. minimum draw weight
  • Crossbow 125 lb. draw weight

Arrow

  • 7/8" two blade broadhead or larger
  • 18" or longer crossbow bolt

Suggested Equipment

  • Camouflage clothing
  • Sturdy footwear
  • Seat or ground pad
  • Turkey calls
  • Knife/shears
  • GPS or other navigation aid
Check Regulations

Review the CT Hunting and Trapping Guide to check bag limits, season dates, and hunting hours.

Depending on the type of hunt and time of year, 400 sq. inches of blaze orange may be required.

Purchase appropriate license:

  • Small Game and Deer Archery Permit
  • Resident Game Bird Conservation Stamp

-or-

  • Firearms Hunting License
  • Resident Game Bird Conservation Stamp
Head into the Field!

Visit the 205,000+ acres of public land available for turkey hunting in the state!

Report your harvest through the Online Hunter Reporting Page or call 1-877-337-4868.

 

Content last updated in November 2025.