It’s that time of year again folks – turkey shoot season is upon us! For those unfamiliar with the term, a “turkey shoot” is a fun shooting competition where the prize is often a frozen turkey or other meat. They are a beloved tradition in many rural areas, including right here in northern Kentucky.
In this article, I’ll give you the lowdown on some of the best upcoming turkey shoots in northern Kentucky including dates locations, costs, and prizes. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or new to the sport, these community events offer a chance to show off your skills and enjoy friendly competition. So grab your shotgun and ammo, and let’s get ready for some gobbling good times!
What Exactly is a Turkey Shoot?
A turkey shoot is a marksmanship competition where participants test their shooting abilities at stationary or moving targets, typically using shotguns loaded with shot shells. Winners are determined by who hits the target or gets closest to the center. There are often different rounds for novice and expert shooters.
The targets themselves vary between events. You may be shooting at paper targets attached to bales of hay or wood, clay pigeons launched into the air on a trap shooting range or metal cut-out turkeys that spin when hit.
After each round, prizes are awarded to the top shooters. The traditional turkey shoot prize is a frozen turkey, but hams, bacons, and other meats are common as well. There are also raffles and door prizes where you can win hunting gear, gift cards, and more.
Why Are Turkey Shoots Popular in Kentucky?
Turkey shoots have long been a popular pastime throughout rural Kentucky. They originated as a way for hunting clubs and other community organizations to socialize and raise funds by joining two much-loved Kentucky traditions – shooting sports and barbecue. Even if you don’t bag any prizes, most turkey shoots serve up delicious southern comfort food to enjoy.
These events are also an opportunity for experienced marksmen to mentor and encourage newcomers, including youth and women, in the safe use of firearms. For many, turkey shoots represent cherished family memories of friendly competition and community camaraderie.
When and Where to Find Turkey Shoots
Now let’s look at some of the top upcoming turkey shoots in northern Kentucky this spring. I’ve included key details like locations, dates, costs, and prizes for each one:
Moonlite Hunting & Fishing Club
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2nd Spring Turkey Shoot
- April 28th at noon
- 3655 Possum Path Rd, Burlington, KY
- $7 per round of trap shooting, $4 for stationary targets
- Prizes include turkey, ham, bacon, pork loin
- Free bean soup and food available for purchase
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Spring Turkey Shoot
- April 7th at noon
- 3595 Petersburg Rd, Burlington, KY
- Cost not specified
- Prizes not specified
- Still target and trap shoots, raffles, “Lou’s Famous Bean Soup”
Old Geezers Monthly Trap Shoot
- 2nd Wednesday of every month
- Locations alternate between shooting clubs
- 11am – 2pm
- $4 per round, lunch is free
NKSSA Spring Turkey Shoots
- March 23rd and April 27th
- Starts at noon
- Still target and trap shooting
- Prizes include turkey, bacon, pork loin, ham
- Rules and costs vary
What to Bring and Rules to Know
If you plan on participating in any turkey shoots this year, be sure to come prepared and know the rules. Here are a few tips:
- Bring safety gear like eye protection and ear muffs
- Bring appropriate firearms and ammunition
- Review each event’s specific rules on guns, ammo, shooting distance
- No alcohol or drugs allowed
- Mind all range safety rules and follow range officer instructions
Most clubs prohibit certain firearm types like pistols, scopes, or rifles Shots are generally taken between 25-35 yards Know the rules beforehand so you don’t get disqualified!
Time to Get Your Gobble On!
Now that you’ve got the full scoop on northern Kentucky turkey shoots, it’s time to get out there and have some fun this spring. Bring your family and friends for a day of friendly competition, good eats, and community spirit. With any luck, you’ll impress the crowd and head home with a tasty turkey dinner!
Turkey Shoot Open to the Public! There are special prizes, free bean soup (while supplies last), scatter cards, and raffles. Check our events schedule to have an opportunity to enjoy our club.
FARMING AND FOOD PLOT
Dutchman’s Rod and Gun Club is a private club in the Burlington, KY, area. Our members have enjoyed shooting, hunting, fishing, and gathering with friends for almost 60 years.
Trapshooters compete for frozen birds at 5th Annual Jacksonville Turkey Shoot
FAQ
Do you shoot turkeys at a turkey shoot?
Originally, the turkeys were themselves restrained and put in place to serve as the targets, while modern versions employ standard paper targets. “Turkey shoot” is also in common use as an idiomatic term for an extremely one-sided battle or contest.
What does the idiom turkey shoot mean?
something easily accomplished; piece of cake. an easy destruction of enemy troops, especially of flying aircraft.