SUPERIOR, Wis. (Northern News Now) – The Pilgrims may have made the wild turkey famous but North America’s indigenous people had been using them for a sustainable food source long before.
They were introduced to the Northland in 1971 and now there are enough to sustain fall and spring hunts which the smart birds can make challenging.
“It’s like a chess match between you and the bird but it is rewarding to be out there with Mother Nature every morning.” said Chuck Pooler of the National Wild Turkey Federation.
Wisconsin’s spring season for male birds only has just begun.
Conservation Wardens are urging hunters to be ever vigilant and not to fire simply at the sound of what they think might be a jake or a tom turkey.
“I know there can be a bit of a fever when you think you have that big turkey coming up towards you but if you can’t positively identify both your target and your back stop, don’t take the shot.” said Wisconsin Conservation Warden Christian Fischer.
The Gitchee Gummee Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation works to preserve wild turkey habitat and teach people how to safely hunt them in accordance with game laws.
Chapter members say that starts with the youth.
“Every year we do a learn to hunt where we take brand new kids out and teach them how to turkey hunt.” said Chuck.
Wisconsin and Minnesota seasons are both open now. Michigan’s season will start May 2nd.
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