Top 10 States for Public Land Turkey Hunting in 2025
Turkey hunting is more than a spring tradition — it's a test of skill, patience, and grit. For DIY hunters, few things are more satisfying than striking up a gobbler on public ground without breaking the bank. With accessible over-the-counter (OTC) tags and millions of acres of public land, these ten states stand out as some of the best places in the country to chase a longbeard.
Whether you're looking for Merriam’s in the West or big Eastern toms in hardwood ridges, here are the top 10 states you need to consider for public land turkey hunting in 2025.
1. Missouri
Turkey Population: ~400,000
2024 Harvest: 44,516 birds
Public Land: 2.5 million acres
Missouri is a turkey hunter’s paradise, blending high bird numbers with generous access. From state conservation areas to national forests, you’ll find quality habitat and a long history of substantial gobbler numbers.
2. Wisconsin
Turkey Population: ~350,000
2024 Harvest: 42,439 birds
Public Land: 5+ million acres
Wisconsin offers unmatched access for turkey hunters, with sprawling state forests and affordable nonresident licenses ($88.25). Tagging a hard-gobbling bird here is as rewarding as the rolling hardwood hills you’ll chase him through.
3. Tennessee
Turkey Population: ~250,000
2024 Harvest: 60,335 birds
Public Land: 2.3 million acres
Tennessee’s diverse terrain—from river bottoms to mountain ridges—provides endless hunting scenarios. Over 60,000 birds were taken in 2023, success rates are strong, and public access is widespread across WMAs and national forests.
4. Pennsylvania
Turkey Population: ~210,000
2024 Harvest: 39,500 birds
Public Land: 4 million acres
Pennsylvania combines big woods hunting with accessible game lands, offering a classic Eastern turkey experience. With millions of acres open to the public, DIY hunters have plenty of space to roam.
5. South Dakota
Highlight: Merriam’s Turkeys
Public Land: 5+ million acres
If Merriam’s turkeys are on your slam list, South Dakota should be near the top. Rugged prairies and pine ridges offer stunning backdrops — and plenty of gobbling action.
6. Alabama
Turkey Population: ~365,000
Public Land: 1 million acres
Alabama has deep turkey-hunting roots. Despite a more humid spring season, public land hunters can find success in state forests, WMAs, and national forests scattered across the state.
7. Kansas
Turkey Population: ~400,000
Public Land: Extensive WIHA (Walk-In Hunting Areas)
Kansas offers the rare chance to hunt both Rio Grande and Eastern turkeys, sometimes even hybrids, all without needing private land connections. Vast public lands and walk-in access programs make Kansas a sleeper hit.
8. Nebraska
Highlight: Merriam’s Turkeys
Note: Recent tag reductions, but still excellent access
Despite tighter tag numbers, Nebraska remains a must-visit for Merriam’s hunters. Rolling grasslands, cottonwood river bottoms, and accessible public ground make it a top option for an unforgettable hunt.
9. Idaho
Hunter Success Rate: ~50%
Highlight: Steep, rugged turkey habitat
For adventurous hunters who love rugged terrain, Idaho delivers. High hunter success rates and lots of national forest land mean a solid chance at a big western bird — if you’re willing to work for it.
10. Oregon
Highlight: Long season, accessible terrain
Oregon’s logging roads and public forests make it easier to reach prime turkey habitat. The state’s generous season lengths and varied landscapes help hunters customize their spring hunts.
Final Thoughts
Public land turkey hunting is more than just chasing gobbles — it’s about the adventure, the landscapes, and the satisfaction of earning your bird. These ten states offer the best blend of high turkey populations, public access, and affordable tags for 2024.
Before you go, always double-check local regulations and consider applying for special permits or researching nonresident licensing requirements.
Ready to start planning? Explore our Public Land Hunting Directory to find maps, access info, and hunting seasons for every state.
About the Author:
Jamie Jent has been hunting for over 35 years and is deeply involved in habitat restoration and wildlife management through organizations like the Quality Deer Management Association and Pheasants Forever. A retired firefighter, he now dedicates his time to conservation and helping others succeed on public land. He founded LandsToHunt.com, Your DIY Public Land Hunting Resource, to make public land hunting more accessible, ethical, and rewarding.
