If you happened to be out in the fields this April 11-12, you might have witnessed the excitement of young hunters during the statewide youth turkey season. Kids aged 6 to 15 were out in full force, checking a total of 1,494 turkeys according to the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. That’s a small but notable bump of about 30 more than last year and a significant increase of 300 from 2024’s numbers.
David Moscicki, the Game and Fish Commission’s Turkey Program coordinator, offered some insights into why this year’s numbers were up. He credited the increase to a mix of good weather, strong turkey reproduction in recent years, and an abundance of adult gobblers. “We saw good reproduction two and three years ago, and last year saw decent reproduction as well,” Moscicki explained. “With more mature birds out there, and the good weather allowing youth hunters to be the first ones in their area, it made for a perfect hunting experience.”
The youth turkey season is a special time in Arkansas. It’s a chance for kids to get outdoors, learn about patience and responsibility, and maybe even bring home dinner. It’s not just about the numbers, though. It’s about the stories and memories these young hunters create. Imagine a 10-year-old proudly showing off a turkey nearly as big as they are, or the shared laughter and lessons learned while waiting quietly in the early morning hours.
Interestingly, fewer than 200 of the turkeys harvested were jakes, or 1-year-old gobblers, this season. Jakes are generally less cautious and more responsive to calls, making them easier targets. This suggests that the young hunters were not only active but successful in seeking out and identifying more mature birds.
For families planning to participate next year, consider it an opportunity to bond and explore the natural beauty of Arkansas. Whether it’s your child’s first or fifth trip, this is a tradition that adds something special to the calendar each spring.
If your family is new to turkey hunting or you’re thinking about getting involved, the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission offers resources and guidance to help you get started. It’s a chance to pass down a love of the outdoors to the next generation, teaching them skills that extend beyond hunting itself.
So, mark your calendars for the next youth turkey season and start planning now. It might just become one of your family’s favorite annual adventures.
Source: NWA Democrat Gazette
