NEBRASKA — Turkey hunters across the state will head into the field beginning April 18 as Nebraska’s spring shotgun season opens, with outlooks remaining largely consistent with recent years.
According to Carlie Gizel, wild turkey program manager with the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, statewide turkey population indices rose 18% from 2024 to 2025. Most regions saw an increase in observed birds, with the exception of the Sandhills and Northeast.
Despite the overall population growth, hunters may notice fewer young birds this season. Summer brood surveys, which track hen production and poult survival, suggest that heavy rains during May and June likely impacted young turkey survival rates. Even so, Gizel noted that overall production in 2025 remained relatively solid.
Youth shotgun season opened April 11, while archery season has been underway since March 25. All spring turkey hunting seasons will close May 31.
Hunting Outlook and Pressure
The Nebraska Panhandle continues to attract a high number of nonresident hunters, particularly early in the season. However, hunting pressure typically declines later in the season and can be heavier on public lands during weekends.
The Southeast region recorded the lowest nonresident harvest rate last year, making it a potential option for hunters seeking less crowded conditions. Officials also encourage hunters not to overlook areas where turkey observations declined, as those regions may see lighter hunting pressure.
Regulations and Requirements
Hunters are reminded:
- All turkey harvests must be reported through Telecheck
- Mechanical turkey decoys are prohibited from emitting sound
Fire Safety Reminders
With ongoing drought conditions across Nebraska, fire risk remains a concern. Hunters are urged to take precautions:
- Drive only on established roads and trails
- Avoid parking in tall, dry vegetation
- Properly dispose of cigarettes and flammable materials
- Ensure vehicles and equipment are well maintained
- Check that no chains are dragging from vehicles
- Inspect exhaust systems for debris before travel
- Fully extinguish campfires before leaving
Officials stress that vehicles parked on dry grass can quickly ignite fires due to heat from exhaust systems. Hunters and campers are encouraged to carry a shovel, bucket, and fire extinguisher.
Access and Closures
Hunters can utilize the Public Access Atlas, which provides information on more than 1.2 million acres of accessible land across Nebraska, including public and private lands enrolled in conservation programs.
However, access remains restricted on some Open Fields and Waters sites and Wildlife Management Areas impacted by recent wildfires in Lincoln, Dawson, Keith, Arthur, Morrill, Garden, and Cherry counties. Those areas are closed to public access until further notice.
Additional Information
For more details on turkey hunting regulations, surveys, and access maps, visit OutdoorNebraska.gov. Permits are available online at GoOutdoorsNE.com or at authorized permitting offices.
