Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection

Emergency Burn Ban In Effect 10/26/24 - An emergency burn ban is now in effect for all Connecticut State Parks, Forests, and Wildlife Management areas, prohibiting the use of all outdoor grills, firepits, and campfires, and the kindling and use of flame outdoors. DEEP and local agencies are working to contain several active fires across the state. Please avoid all affected State Parks and Forests, as well as the blue-blazed Mattabesett Trail. The Enduro Trail in Voluntown and portions of North Stonington within the Pachaug State Forest are closed at this time. Rocky Neck State Park is also closed until further notice due to a brush fire. Please note that today's forest fire danger report remains at a 'very high' or 'extreme' level. More information about the current fire danger, burn ban and recommended safety measures can be found here

Wild Turkey Hunting Roadmap

What you need to know to 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 here!

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 January 2024.