Spring turkey season is a cherished tradition for hunters across South Carolina pursuing these wary gamebirds takes skill and preparation This guide provides key dates and details on the 2025 turkey season so you can have a successful hunt,
Overview of South Carolina Turkey Season
- Season occurs every spring, usually April-May
- Specific dates vary on public and private lands
- Youth weekends provide early hunting opportunities
- Hunting allowed 30 minutes before sunrise until 30 minutes after sunset
- 2 gobbler limit per season for residents and nonresidents
Knowing the regulations and planning ahead is crucial for a great turkey season, Read on for more specifics on timing and rules
South Carolina Turkey Season Key Dates
Here are the statewide 2025 spring turkey dates to remember
- Youth Weekend – March 29-30 (private lands)
- Opening Day – April 3
- Second Youth Weekend – May 10-11 (private lands)
- Closing Day – May 3
Note season lengths and bag limits vary on some public lands. See WMA seasons.
Turkey Season on Private Lands
For most hunters, the season on private property is:
- Starts: April 3
- Ends: May 3
- Length: 31 days
Hunting hours are 30 minutes before sunrise until 30 minutes after sunset.
The two youth weekends in March and May also allow hunting on private land for youth age 17 and under. Adult supervision is required.
Turkey Season on Public Lands
On South Carolina’s public Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs), turkey season dates are:
- Starts: April 3
- Ends: May 3 on most WMAs
- Some WMAs have more restrictive seasons, like April 5-25 or April 8-20
Consult the SCDNR’s list of Spring Turkey Seasons on WMAs for hunting dates on specific properties.
What Are the Turkey Hunting Limits?
For the 2025 spring turkey season in South Carolina:
- Residents can harvest 2 gobblers total
- Nonresidents can harvest 2 gobblers total
- No more than 1 gobbler per day
- No more than 1 gobbler before April 10
Some WMAs have lower limits, usually 1 gobbler per season. Hunter orange requirements also vary on public lands.
What Are the Legal Hunting Methods?
Turkey hunters in South Carolina may use:
- Shotguns
- Muzzleloading shotguns
- Bows
- Crossbows
All other weapons like rifles or pistols are prohibited by state law.
Licensing Needed for Turkey Hunting
All turkey hunters in South Carolina, including youth, must have:
- Valid hunting license
- Big game permit ($100 residents, $200 nonresidents)
- Set of turkey tags ($25 residents, $125 nonresidents)
Youth under 16 can obtain free tags. Lifetime licensees also get free tags. Purchasing online in advance is recommended.
Tips for a Successful Turkey Season
Here are some tips for having your best turkey season:
- Scout areas in advance and have multiple spots lined up
- Take a hunter education course if new to turkey hunting
- Practice calling techniques and shooting your firearm or archery gear
- Use camo clothing, facemasks and gloves to stay concealed
- Hunt safely from a blind and avoid stalking turkeys
- Check regulations on public lands and hunting methods
Knowing the turkey season dates, limits, license requirements and hunting laws is key for success. Follow this guide to maximize your spring gobbler pursuits in South Carolina!
Frequently Asked Questions about SC Turkey Season
Get more info on spring turkey hunting dates, limits and regulations in South Carolina:
When does turkey season open in SC?
The opening day of spring turkey season in South Carolina is April 3 each year statewide on private and public land. Some WMAs open later.
How long is turkey season in SC?
The turkey season runs April 3 – May 3 on private land and most public lands. That’s 31 days total. Some WMAs have shorter seasons of 3-4 weeks.
Can you hunt turkeys on Sunday in SC?
Yes, Sunday hunting is allowed on private lands in South Carolina. However, WMA lands are closed to Sunday hunting.
What are the bag limits for turkey in SC?
The statewide limit is 2 gobblers total, no more than 1 per day and only 1 gobbler before April 10. On WMAs, limits range from 1-2 birds.
What weapons can you use for turkey hunting in SC?
Legal weapons include shotguns, muzzleloading shotguns, bows, and crossbows. Rifles, pistols, and buckshot are prohibited.
How old do you have to be to hunt turkeys in SC?
There is no minimum age for turkey hunting with an adult mentor. Youth under 17 can hunt during the special youth weekends too. All hunters need licenses and tags.
Can you hunt turkeys over bait in SC?
No. Hunting turkeys over bait is illegal in South Carolina. This includes placing or scattering grains or food to lure them.
When should I apply for a SC turkey tag?
Apply for your turkey tags by early February to ensure you receive them in time. Tags can be purchased at license vendors or online ahead of season.
Use this thorough guide to prepare for a successful spring turkey hunt in South Carolina. Follow the rules and hunt safely this season!
New regulations for 2025
- Residents and Nonresidents: 2 gobblers per season, no more than one per day, no more than one (1) prior to April 10.
- Unlawful to harvest a âJakeâ defined as a male wild turkey with a beard less than six inches and a tail fan that is not fully developed with the central tail feathers being longer than the rest (50-11-500).
- On private lands statewide it is unlawful to stalk a wild turkey while behind a decoy or tail fan. Tail fans include those made of real or synthetic feathers or an or likeness of a tail fan applied to any material. Commonly referred to as fanning or reaping (50-11-500).
Turkey Season in SC 2022
FAQ
What are the dates for turkey season in South Carolina?
- Private lands statewide: April 3 – May 3.
- WMA lands statewide: April 3– May 3. Some WMAs may be more restrictive, see Spring Turkey Seasons on WMAs for specified hunt dates.
- Limit statewide private and WMA lands:
Is it illegal to shoot a turkey off the roost?
(Be sure to check current ammo regulations.) True enough, you can legally shoot a turkey off the roost in some states, while in others you’ll lose your license privileges for it. Right here is where some might interject the idea that just because it’s legal doesn’t make it ethical or sporting.
What are the hunting seasons in South Carolina?
Archery Season: Typically begins in mid-September and runs through mid-January. Primitive Weapons Season: Opens in early October and extends through mid-January. Gun Season: Generally starts in mid-August with special youth hunts and then continues through January.
What time is turkey hunting season?
General: March 29 – May 4, 2025. Archery Only: May 5 – 18, 2025.
When is a turkey season in South Carolina?
South Carolina › Hunting › Spring Turkey Seasons on WMAs March 29 and May 10, 2025 for all areas listed above, except Keowee WMA, Santee Coastal Reserve, Bonneau Ferry, and Hatchery Waterfowl Area WMA. Limit one (1) gobbler total.
Where can I Hunt a Turkey in SC?
Turkey hunts available by public hunt lottery only. Contact: Carolina Sandhills NWR, 23734 Highway 1, McBee, SC 29101 or call 843-335-8350. Wildlife Management Areas Open to Turkey Hunting April 3 – May 3 Areas Open Limit Aiken Gopher Tortoise HP WMA 2 Belfast WMA (Thurs.-Sat. only) 1…
When is deer hunting season in SC?
Deer hunting season for S.C. residents begins in October. However, dates may vary depending on location and type of weapon used. Here’s what to know about the season and deer game zones. To hunt in S.C., licenses and permits are required. For a complete list of licenses and permit types, visit License Recreational Hunting & Fishing.
What WMAs do turkey hunters have to pick up & return data cards?
4 On Webb, Palachucola, Hamilton Ridge and Oak Lea WMAs, all turkey hunters must pick up and return data cards daily to kiosk and display hang tags on vehicles. 5 On Pee Dee Station Site WMA, Great Pee Dee River WMA, Woodbury WMA, McBee WMA, Liberty Hill WMA, Worth Mountain, Draper WMA and Marsh WMA all hunters must sign in and sign out.
Is it illegal to take a wild turkey?
Unlawful to take or attempt to take a wild turkey from a vehicle on a public road. Unlawful to trap or snare a wild turkey. Unlawful to take wild turkey from a watercraft (SC 50-11-500). Unlawful to hunt or take a wild turkey by means of bait or on or over any baited area (SC 50-11-510).