Exploring the Best Midwest Turkey Hunting States

When it comes to finding some of the best turkey hunting land that the United States has to offer, you cannot leave out midwest America. 

Offering a range of diverse habitats, thriving turkey populations, and well-managed hunting regulations, the six states we have chosen to discuss today make some of the absolute best states when it comes to turkey hunting. With a mix of public and private lands, conservation programs, and unique turkey subspecies, hunters can experience some of the best hunting opportunities in the United States when it comes to turkey. 

So, let’s get into these top six Midwest states for turkey hunting and break down everything from why Kansas stands out as the premier destination to how Wisconsin has more to offer than you might think.

Why the Midwest is a Turkey Hunter’s Paradise

Midwest turkey hunting is, and always has been well renowned for its abundant turkey populations, amazing landscapes, and successful conservation efforts. 

Another perk is that the region is home to both Eastern and Rio Grande turkey subspecies, providing a rich hunting experience across its forests, grasslands, and farmlands. Wildlife conservation programs also make sure that there is a sustainable hunting environment, and hunters can also benefit from a mix of public hunting lands and private hunting programs.

Each state has distinct regulations, but overall, the Midwest offers an exceptional balance between accessibility and quality of hunts. Whether hunting in dense woodlands or open prairies, hunters can find opportunities suited to their skill levels and preferences.

Kansas: The Top Turkey Hunting State in the Midwest

First on our list, Kansas is widely regarded as the best turkey hunting state in the Midwest, particularly for Rio Grande turkeys. 

The state’s mild terrain, widespread turkey populations, and hunter-friendly regulations make it an attractive destination for any turkey hunter. Kansas also boasts one of the highest hunter success rates, thanks to extensive public land access and conservation efforts put in place by the state.

Another major advantage of Kansas hunting is the Walk-In Hunting Access (WIHA) program, which opens private lands to public hunters. This program significantly expands the hunting grounds available to sportsmen, ensuring more than ample opportunities, even during peak hunting seasons.

Best Hunting Regions in Kansas

When it comes to where to hunt turkey in Kansas, the state offers numerous public hunting locations where turkey populations thrive.

Some of these top spots include:

• Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area: Known for its dense Rio Grande turkey population and accessible terrain.
• Glen Elder Wildlife Area: Offers large hunting zones and a mix of open fields and wooded cover.
• Kanopolis State Park: Features a variety of landscapes, ideal for tracking and scouting turkeys.
• WIHA Program Lands: These private lands are open to public hunters and provide some of the best turkey hunting in the state.

Scouting before the season and understanding turkey roosting habits is always the best practice and improves any hunter’s chances of a successful hunt in these areas.

Missouri: A Top Pick for Eastern Wild Turkey Hunting

Next up, Missouri has long been a stronghold for Eastern wild turkeys, thanks to its combination of forested areas, farmlands, and a deep-rooted hunting culture. 

The Missouri Department of Conservation actively manages turkey populations, making sure there is a lasting, sustainable hunting environment. With a large turkey population and ample accessible public lands, Missouri is a top pick for both novice and seasoned hunters alike.

Best Hunting Regions in Missouri

The best turkey hunting areas in Missouri include some of the following:

• Mark Twain National Forest: A vast forested area ideal for Eastern turkey hunting.
• Ozark Region: Offers a mix of public and private lands with high turkey densities.
• Conservation Areas: Missouri has numerous conservation lands where turkey hunting is permitted with the right permits.

The varied landscapes of these locations provide hunters with plenty of opportunities to track, call, and shoot turkeys successfully. There are also some amazing camping spots in Missouri, which is a great way to add an extra excursion to your trip.

Nebraska: The Best State for Hunting Merriam’s Turkeys

While not in our top two, Nebraska is the best Midwest state for hunting Merriam’s turkeys, a species known for their striking white-tipped plumage. The state’s mix of grasslands and wooded regions creates an ideal environment for these birds, making it a prime destination for certain turkey hunters.

The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission manages the turkey populations in the state through hunting regulations and conservation programs, ensuring that Merriam’s turkeys continue to thrive.

Best Hunting Regions in Nebraska

A couple of top hunting locations in Nebraska include:

• Pine Ridge Region: Known for its high Merriam’s turkey density and expansive public hunting areas.
• Public Access Lands: Nebraska provides various public hunting lands where turkey populations remain strong and offer some great shooting.

Just as with the other states, scouting and understanding the seasonal behavior of turkeys in the region will significantly improve any hunting success.

Wisconsin: A Hidden Gem for Turkey Hunters

Wisconsin may not be the first state that comes to mind for turkey hunting, but it offers a robust population of Eastern turkeys and super-accessible public lands. 

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has also implemented some pretty strong conservation efforts, making the state an underrated hunting destination that has a lot to offer.

Best Hunting Regions in Wisconsin

• Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest: A top location with dense turkey populations and varied terrain for all types of hunts.
• State Wildlife Areas: Wisconsin maintains several well-managed hunting zones ideal for turkey hunters.

Wisconsin’s mix of forested regions and farmland makes it an excellent location for hunters looking to avoid crowds and explore underutilized hunting areas of the Midwest.

Minnesota: A Diverse Landscape for Turkey Hunting

While commonly known for its outstanding grouse hunting, Minnesota also offers an ideal blend of forest and farmland when it comes to turkey hunting. Over the years, the state’s turkey population has flourished, growing significantly due to successful conservation efforts. 

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources ensures sustainable hunting opportunities through carefully managed regulations.

Best Hunting Regions in Minnesota

• Chippewa National Forest: Featuring a mix of open and forested areas, the national forest is ideal for tracking turkeys.
• Mille Lacs Wildlife Management Area: Known for its high turkey population density and easily accessible hunting zones.

With an increasing turkey population and diverse landscapes, Minnesota provides ample opportunities for hunters of all skill levels.

Iowa: A Balanced Blend of Hunting Options

Last on our list, Iowa is home to a very well-managed turkey population and offers turkey hunters a balanced mix of public and private hunting opportunities. 

Whether hunting in the state’s hardwood forests or its rolling farmlands, hunters will find plenty of action during the spring turkey season.

Best Hunting Regions in Iowa

• Loess Hills: A leading Iowa turkey hunting location with rugged terrain and excellent cover.
• Stephens State Forest: Offers diverse habitats and high turkey densities.
• Private Hunting Programs: Just as with several other states listed,  Iowa’s private land access programs offer additional hunting opportunities beyond public lands.

Final Tips for Midwest Turkey Hunters

If you are planning on taking a trip out to the Midwest to visit one of these states for a turkey hunt, there are a couple of regionally specific tips and tricks that just might make your trip a little more successful:

• Scout Early: While this is really best practice anywhere you hunt, understanding turkey movements before the season starts can seriously impact hunting success.
• Use Effective Turkey Calls: Calling techniques vary by species and habitat, so practicing beforehand is always a good idea.
• Follow State Regulations: Each state has its own specific rules regarding permits, bag limits, and hunting seasons.
• Prepare the Right Gear: Know where you’re going. Having the proper camo, turkey calls, and shotguns ensures an efficient hunt, and having the proper clothing can save you from a miserably cold or wet hunt.

The Midwest is a top-tier turkey hunting region, offering up some of the most rich opportunities for hunters seeking Rio Grande, Eastern, and Merriam’s turkeys. With strategic planning and knowledge of the best public and private lands in the area, hunters can really get the most success out of their hunt and enjoy some of the best turkey hunting in the country.