First Time Hunter Looking for Turkeys in Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

[joedawjes]

Hey everyone - I'm a first-time hunter and figure turkeys could provide an easier entry into the sport than big game. I've identified a few potential hunting mentors, but I'd like to get a backup plan in case those opportunities fall through. I realize that turkey populations are probably most dense in NE Washington, but I'm on the Western side of the state and would like to drive a shorter distance if there are comparable population sizes elsewhere. Have y'all had consistent success in Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest? Or is it more worthwhile to head further NE?

Any advice/suggestions would be much appreciated. Thanks.

[HillHound]

I would head further north east.  Birds can be found in Okanogan/ Wenatchee national Forest but the population density is far less. And in my experience a lot of the locals already have them pegged anyways. Even when you are one of those locals it still seems like there’s five other guys on the same birds as you opening morning

[TheStovePipeKid]

Head to the NE. It's a long drive but there are more birds in that area than anywhere else. Once you hear that first gobble you'll forget all about the length of the drive. Get a season or two under your belt and then you'll have the experience to start branching out. 

[joedawjes]

Thanks, y'all! I appreciate the advice. Looks like I'll be headed NE.

[253shotgunner]

Thanks, y'all! I appreciate the advice. Looks like I'll be headed NE.

Good idea. Learn the ins and outs of spring turkey hunting in NE WA and then leverage that knowledge to other locations. Me, I'm quite happy to make the long drive to NE WA, it is beautiful country up there!

[Russ McDonald]

Most of the birds along the eastern Cascades are in small pockets and a lot are on private property.  Land owners are not as receptive to allow people to hunt on their land like the NE corner.  Good luck.

Sent from my SM-N976V using Tapatalk

[huntnfmly]

Does Wdfw have a list for land owners that are having Turkey problems?
I would love to get my daughters on their first try on turkeys with bows.
They both were successful with shotguns on a guided hunt
Thanks in advance

[avidnwoutdoorsman]

Does Wdfw have a list for land owners that are having Turkey problems?
I would love to get my daughters on their first try on turkeys with bows.
They both were successful with shotguns on a guided hunt
Thanks in advance

NE regional office does, some are youth only and some are also bow only.

[Russ McDonald]

Call the local regional office.  They have nusiance cooridnators that wirk with land owners. Land owners are less receptive in the eastern Cascades then in the NE or even the SE part of the state.

Sent from my SM-N976V using Tapatalk

[huntnfmly]

Thank you very much for the replys