Turkey Hunting in St. Augustine: The Ultimate Guide

Last Updated on January 9, 2025 by Eric Bonneman

St. Augustine, FL is famous for its historic streets, old forts, and ties to the country’s early days. But once you get outside the tourist areas, a whole different side of Northeast Florida opens up—one that’s quieter, wilder, and perfect for hunters. The woods and marshes around the Nation’s Oldest City are prime hunting grounds, especially for turkey hunters.

The NE corner of the Sunshine State is home to the Osceola wild turkey, one of the most sought-after subspecies in the U.S. Known for being tough to track and even tougher to outsmart, the Osceola isn’t a bird you just stumble across. It thrives in the thick woods, palmetto flats, and swamps that define Florida’s landscape.

To hunt here, you need to know the terrain and be prepared to adapt. Now it’s not easy, but that’s what makes it worth it, right?

Florida’s Turkey Species

Our state is home to two subspecies that are distinct in both appearance and habitat: the Eastern Wild Turkey and the Osceola Turkey. If you’re serious about turkey hunting—whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been at it for years—understanding these birds is key.

Let’s start with the Eastern Wild Turkey. It’s the bigger and more common of the two subspecies. You’ll find it across much of North America, including northern parts of Florida. These birds like hardwood forests and open fields, and they’re known for their more uniform coloration and lighter feather pattern.

While they’re impressive in their own right, the Eastern Wild Turkey is often overshadowed in Northeast Florida by its smaller, more localized cousin: the Osceola Turkey.

Now the Osceola Turkey is a whole different ballgame. This bird is unique to the Florida peninsula, and it’s one of the most prized subspecies in the game world. Smaller and darker than the Eastern, it has distinct barring on its wing feathers that makes it stand out.

But its looks aren’t what make it such a big deal. The Osceola is known for being tough to hunt. It’s wary, fast, and lives in some of the most difficult terrain Florida has to offer—and that’s saying something. Thick palmetto flats, swampy lowlands, and pine scrub are where these birds thrive. You’re not just walking into the woods and hoping to stumble across one—they make you work for it.

For those chasing the “Grand Slam of turkey hunting”—bagging all four major U.S. subspecies (Eastern, Osceola, Merriam’s, and Rio Grande)—the Osceola is often going to be the most challenging. Its limited range means you’re hunting on its turf, in its specific habitat, and under conditions that aren’t always ideal. The terrain can be hot, wet, and downright miserable if you’re not prepared. But that’s part of the appeal. Hunters who’ve bagged an Osceola will tell you it’s not just about the bird—it’s about the experience, the challenge, and the bragging rights.

From a biological perspective, these two subspecies are closely related, but the Osceola’s adaptations to Florida’s unique environment have made it distinct. Its smaller size and darker coloration help it blend into the dense vegetation it calls home, and its behavior reflects that survival instinct. These birds are hyper-aware of their surroundings and can pick up on the smallest signs of danger. If you’re out there thinking you can just call one in without putting in the time to scout, you’re in for a long day.

Hunting either subspecies in Florida comes with its own set of challenges, but the Osceola takes it to another level. Whether you’re up in the northern hardwood forests looking for an Eastern or slogging through a swamp chasing an Osceola, understanding what makes these birds tick is half the battle. The rest is up to your patience, preparation, and ability to outthink one of nature’s most cautious creatures.

Turkey Hunting Season Dates, Regulations, & Requirements

If you’re planning to head out for the 2025 season, here’s what you need to know.

2025 Season Dates

Florida has both spring and fall turkey hunting seasons. That said, most hunters in St. Augustine focus on the spring turkey season, and there’s a pretty good reason for that. Spring is when gobblers—male turkeys—are at their most active, calling, strutting, and generally making themselves a little easier to hunt.

That’s also why the rules limit you to shooting gobblers or bearded turkeys in the spring. Bearded hens are rare, but they’re legal if you can’t tell the difference in time. The point is to leave the hens alone, since they’re critical for nesting and population growth.

Turkey season in Florida is divided by geography, with State Road 70 acting as the dividing line. For those of us hunting in the St. Augustine area—north of State Road 70—the 2025 spring season kicks off on March 15, 2025 and runs through April 20, 2025 for lands outside the Wildlife Management Area (WMA) system.

These dates are worth committing to memory (or at least jotting down somewhere), because missing the season window means waiting another year.

What’s interesting about these dates is how they line up with the turkey breeding season. By mid-March, gobblers in this area are active, strutting and calling to attract hens. If you’re familiar with turkey hunting elsewhere, you’ll notice Florida’s season starts earlier than in many other states, thanks to the warm climate. That’s a big advantage for hunters who want to get out there early before the northern seasons begin.

Bag Limits

Florida keeps it straightforward when it comes to bag limits. On lands outside the WMA system, you’re allowed to take 2 turkeys per season, and that’s also your possession limit.

Both of those birds have to be bearded turkeys or gobblers—no hens. You can take both birds in one day if you’re lucky enough to find the right opportunities, but that’s it for the season.

Now, while 2 turkeys a day may not sound like much, it’s important to remember that Florida’s limits are designed to keep populations stable, with the Osceola subspecies being a major draw for hunters from across the country.

Harvest Reporting

One regulation that trips up some hunters is the mandatory harvest reporting. Every turkey you take needs to be logged and reported. Florida uses a harvest reporting system to track how many wild birds are being taken, where, and when. This data feeds directly into wildlife management decisions.

License & Permit Requirements

Hunting in Florida requires a valid hunting license, and for turkeys, you’ll also need a turkey permit. Both are available through the Go Outdoors Florida website, over the phone at 888-HUNT-FLORIDA (486-8356), at local county tax collectors’ offices, or even stores that sell hunting gear. Just make sure to keep those licenses on hand—either printed or saved on your phone—you don’t want to deal with a fine for something that’s so easy to handle.

Legal Weapons

As a Florida hunter, one thing I appreciate about Florida’s regulations is the flexibility when it comes to legal weapons. For turkey hunting outside the WMA system, you’ve got a wide range of options. You can use:

• Any legal rifle or shotgun
• Pre-charged pneumatic (PCP) air guns of at least .20 caliber
• Muzzleloaders
• Bows and crossbows
• Pistols

That flexibility means you can tailor your hunt to your preferences. Personally, I’d stick with a shotgun—it’s hard to beat for turkey hunting, especially in the dense cover around St. Augustine. But I know hunters who swear by their bows for the added challenge, and there’s definitely something to be said for keeping your skills sharp with different weapons.

Shooting Hours

On lands outside the WMA system, shooting hours start half an hour before sunrise and go until sunset. This window is generous compared to some states, and it gives you plenty of time to work on calling in a gobbler, even if the morning doesn’t go as planned. Those pre-dawn setups, though, are where the magic really happens. If you’re not in place and ready to go before the first hint of daylight, you’re missing some of the best action of the day.

Other Regulations

There are a few additional rules that hunters need to follow:

1. Decoys are allowed, but you can’t hunt turkeys with dogs.
2. Using recorded turkey calls or sounds is prohibited, so your calling skills matter.
3. Shooting turkeys on the roost is off-limits. You’ve got to let them come down and start moving before you take a shot.
4. You must stay at least 100 yards away from any game feeding station if there’s feed present. That’s a fair rule—it keeps things ethical and ensures you’re hunting, not baiting.

Location Scouting St. Augustine for Spring Turkey Hunting

Scouting in the St. Augustine area takes some legwork, but it’s worth every step. The terrain here is a mix of hardwood hammocks, pine flatwoods, and marshy edges—ideal turkey habitat. Turkeys are creatures of habit, so the key is figuring out their daily routines: where they roost, feed, and strut. Once you know their patterns, you’re halfway to filling your tag.

I like to start early in the morning or late in the afternoon to listen for gobbles. These birds aren’t shy about announcing where they’re roosting, especially during the spring. If you’ve got an idea of where they’re spending the night, you can plan your setup before first light. Aerial maps are useful for spotting clearings, water sources, and wooded edges. Combine that with boots on the ground, and you’ll start piecing together their movements.

Keep your eyes open for scratch marks in the dirt—signs of foraging. Add to that droppings, feathers, or dusting spots, and you’ve got a solid indication of turkey activity. Around here, oak hammocks with plenty of acorns are a sure bet, but don’t overlook open fields with bugs and seeds. These spots can be feeding goldmines.

The terrain around St. Augustine can be thick, especially with palmetto thickets. Turkeys use these for cover while moving between feeding and strutting zones. Walking the land and finding trails, narrow gaps, or choke points in the brush can tell you where to position yourself. I’ve found that turkeys in this area are predictable once you figure out their routes—they like sticking to safe, familiar paths.

Because the Osceola turkey is such a draw, you’re not the only hunter out there trying to fill your tags. Public lands can get busy, especially early in the season, so consider private land if you’ve got access—or get out there during the week when the crowds thin out.

Get to know the land, watch for patterns, and pay attention to small details. When the spring turkey season opens, you’ll already have the upper hand.

Turkey Hunting Gear & Equipment

When it comes to Northeast Florida turkey hunting, having the right gear isn’t optional—it’s what gets the job done. For most hunters, a shotgun is the go-to choice. I stick with something that lets me run a full or extra-full choke to keep the shot pattern tight. It makes a difference when you’re aiming for the head and neck at a distance. Pair that with #4 to #6 turkey loads, and you’ve got a setup that delivers.

If you’re into bow hunting, you’ve got to be dialed in. That means tuning your bow, practicing your shot, and knowing your effective range. Turkey hunting with a bow takes more patience, but when it works, it’s one hell of a feeling.

Camouflage is non-negotiable. Turkeys don’t just see well—they see everything. Match your camo to the environment, whether you’re sitting in pine flatwoods, palmetto thickets, or open fields. A face mask and gloves are just as important. You don’t want a flash of bare skin giving you away when that bird is closing the distance.

I’m a fan of a portable ground blind for certain setups. Bow hunters especially can benefit, but even with a shotgun, it helps in open areas where cover is thin. Set it up right, and you’ll be able to move without getting busted.

Tree stands aren’t typically used for turkey hunting—they’re more for deer or other game that relies less on sharp eyesight and more on scent for detecting predators. Turkeys, believe it or not, have incredible eyesight and spot movement quickly, so sitting up in a tree stand can actually work against you.

If you don’t already have a slate or box turkey call, get one and practice. Know the basics like yelps, clucks, and purrs, but don’t overdo it. Turkeys are smart—they’ll pick up on unnatural calling if you’re sloppy.

Calling is one of those skills where less is often more. “Over-calling” can spook them. So use it to bring them in, but don’t forget to stay still and let them come to you.

Hunting Turkeys on Private Land in St. Augustine

Hunting private land around St. Augustine can give you a serious edge—but it starts with securing access. Most private properties here are either small family farms, cattle ranches, or undeveloped parcels of timberland. Gaining access to these is usually going to involve building trust with some landowners. That might be through friends, family connections, or just offering something in return, like helping with chores, maintaining fences, etc.. (Leasing land is another option and is fairly common in NE Florida, but it’ll cost you, so make sure it’s worth it before committing.)

The benefit of private land in the St. Augustine area is the lack of hunting pressure. Public land birds get hammered hard here, especially during the spring season, but private land birds tend to act more naturally. They stick to their patterns and don’t get spooked as easily. That means better chances of calling one in without having to deal with skittish, over-hunted gobblers.

One key feature to look for on private land in this region is oak hammocks. These areas are prime feeding spots, thanks to the acorns they provide. Turkeys also like transitioning between hammocks and open fields, where they can forage for insects and seeds. If the property has both, you’re in business. Pay attention to palmetto thickets too—turkeys often use them for cover when moving between feeding and roosting areas.

Water sources are another big factor. In the St. Augustine area, you’ll find plenty of creeks, ponds, and swamp edges that turkeys rely on for drinking and cooling off. Scouting these areas can help you identify where birds are traveling, especially in the heat of the day. Look for turkey sign near water, like tracks, droppings, and scratch marks in the dirt where they’ve been feeding.

Private land also gives you the ability to set up semi-permanent blinds or prepare spots well before the season. A ground blind tucked into the edge of a field or clearing near a roosting area can give you a lot of flexibility. Since you’re not dealing with other hunters, you can leave blinds or natural setups in place without worrying about someone else using or moving them.

When you’re hunting private land, respect is everything. Treat the property like it’s your own—or better. Don’t leave trash, avoid damaging fences or gates, and follow any specific requests the landowner might have. Keeping a good relationship can make sure you’re welcome back next season. If you have success on the property, letting the landowner know—or even offering them a bird—is a good way to show your appreciation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the best time of day to hunt turkeys in Florida?
Early morning is your best bet, but late afternoon can also be productive.
Most of the action happens right after the birds come off the roost. They’re vocal, moving, and looking for hens. By mid-morning, things can slow down, but don’t give up. If you know where they’re feeding or strutting, you can catch them moving later in the day. Late afternoon is also solid for setting up near feeding areas, but you’ve got to be patient.

Can I use decoys on public land in Florida?
Yes, decoys are allowed on public land.
The trick with decoys on public land is knowing when they’ll help and when they’ll hurt. In heavily hunted areas, turkeys can get spooked by decoys if they’ve seen too many already. I usually keep it simple—a single hen decoy or a jake and hen combo—nothing too flashy. Placement matters too; don’t just toss them out in the open and hope for the best.

Do I need a special permit to hunt turkeys in Florida?
Yes, you need a turkey permit in addition to a Florida hunting license.
If you’re hunting in a Wildlife Management Area (WMA), you’ll also need a WMA permit. Getting these permits is easy enough online or at a local sporting goods store that sells hunting equipment. Keep a copy of your permits on you—either printed or on your phone—because game wardens don’t mess around with people who skip this step.

How can I distinguish between an Osceola and an Eastern turkey?
Osceolas are smaller and darker, with more pronounced barring on their wing feathers.
If you’re hunting around St. Augustine, you’re in prime Osceola territory. These birds have less white on their wings compared to Easterns, and they’re typically found south of the Panhandle. Knowing the difference matters if you’re chasing a Grand Slam, and it’s something you’ll pick up easily once you’ve seen both types.

Is it legal to hunt turkeys with a bow in Florida?
Yes, bows are legal for turkey hunting in Florida.
Bow hunting turkeys is a whole different challenge. You’ve got to be precise because turkeys are tough, and hitting them in the right spot is critical. A ground blind helps a lot, especially if you’re drawing a bow. Around here, you’ll need to be extra stealthy since the cover in the flatwoods can be sparse.

Where is the best turkey hunting in FL?
The best hunting depends on access, but areas with oak hammocks, flatwoods, and water sources are solid bets.
Around St. Augustine, private lands with a mix of fields and woods are gold. If you’re on public land, WMAs like Guana River or Matanzas State Forest can be worth the effort, but they get crowded. Scouting makes all the difference in finding where the birds are holding.

What month is best for turkey hunting?
March is when things heat up, especially in the St. Augustine area.
The spring season starts mid-March north of State Road 70, and that’s prime time for gobbler activity. They’re vocal, responsive to calls, and actively looking for hens. If you wait too long into April, the birds can get call-shy, especially on public land.

Is it legal to hunt turkeys over bait in Florida?
No, hunting turkeys over bait is illegal in Florida.
This includes being within 100 yards of a feeding station where feed is present. It’s a rule that trips up some hunters, especially those new to the area. If you’re hunting private land, make sure the property hasn’t been baited recently. Game wardens are thorough when it comes to enforcing this one.

Can I use a rifle to hunt turkeys in Florida?
Yes, rifles are legal for turkey hunting on private land, but not in WMAs.
If you’re using a rifle, accuracy is everything. A small-caliber rifle or even a PCP air gun can get the job done, but it’s a different style of hunting compared to a shotgun. On public land, rifles are off-limits, so stick with a shotgun or bow.

Can I hunt turkeys on public land without a guide?
Yes, as long as you have the proper permits, you can hunt public land on your own.
The challenge with public land around St. Augustine is the pressure—these birds get hunted hard. Scouting and understanding the terrain are key. WMAs like Guana River offer opportunities, but be ready to work for it. A guide isn’t necessary, but it can speed up the learning curve if you’re new to the area.

What’s the best shot size for turkeys in Florida?
Shot sizes #4 to #6 are the standard for turkey hunting.
It comes down to personal preference, but I like #5 as a middle ground. Pair that with a full or extra-full choke to keep your pattern tight, and you’re set. Practice with your setup before you head out, so you know what it can do at different distances.

How do I scout for turkeys before the season?
Listen for gobbles early in the morning and look for signs like tracks, droppings, and scratch marks.
In St. Augustine, focus on areas with oak hammocks, pine flatwoods, and water sources. Walk the land, watch for patterns, and don’t overlook the edges of fields or marshes. A good pair of binoculars and some patience can go a long way during pre-season scouting.

Can I hunt turkeys from a tree stand in Florida?
Yes, you can hunt turkeys from a tree stand, but it’s not the most practical method.
Turkeys rely on their eyesight, not their sense of smell, to detect danger, so being up in a tree doesn’t give you the same advantage as it does with deer. Most turkey hunters stay on the ground where they can use calls and decoys effectively. A tree stand might work in specific setups, like when you know a bird is passing through a narrow area below, but it’s not a common approach.

What’s the daily bag limit for turkeys in Florida?
The daily bag limit is two turkeys, but the season limit is also two.
That means if you tag out in one day, you’re done for the season. Both birds must be gobblers or bearded turkeys since hens are off-limits during the spring. If you’re hunting on public land, check for any additional restrictions that might apply in specific areas.

How does hunting pressure affect turkey behavior on public lands?
Hunting pressure makes turkeys more cautious and less likely to respond to calls.
On public lands near St. Augustine, heavily hunted birds will often go silent, especially later in the season. They’ll still gobble occasionally, but not as much as they would on private land. To counter this, I use softer, more subtle calls and try to stay mobile, setting up in areas with less foot traffic. The more natural you sound, the better your chances of outsmarting a pressured bird.

Are there any turkey hunting safety tips specific to Florida terrain?
Be aware of snakes, uneven ground, and dense vegetation that can limit visibility.
In areas around St. Augustine, you’ll likely deal with thick palmettos, marsh edges, and swamps. Watch your footing, especially in low-lying areas where water moccasins or gators might be present. When hunting public land, always identify your target and what’s beyond it—other hunters can be in the area, and visibility can be limited in dense brush. Wearing some orange while moving to and from your setup isn’t a bad idea either, even if it’s not required.

How do I find private land to hunt turkeys in Florida?
Start by networking with landowners or looking into leases.
In the St. Augustine area, there are small farms, ranches, and timberlands that often hold turkeys. Building relationships with landowners takes time—offering to help out on the property (maybe even helping them out by hunting some wild hogs) or sharing your harvest can go a long way. If that’s not an option, check online for hunting leases or hunting clubs that have access to private land. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) website also has resources for finding opportunities.

What kind of camo is best for turkey hunting in Florida?
Camo that matches the local environment is key.
In the St. Augustine area, go with patterns that blend into oak hammocks, palmetto thickets, or pine flatwoods—common habitats here. Mossy Oak and Realtree patterns designed for Southern terrain work well. Don’t forget face masks and gloves to cover exposed skin, as turkeys are quick to spot anything that looks out of place.

Do I need to call turkeys to hunt them successfully?
Calling isn’t required but greatly increases your chances.
Around St. Augustine, turkeys respond well to yelps, clucks, and purrs, especially in the early season when they’re vocal. If you’re not confident in your calling, practice with a slate or box call until you can sound natural. In high-pressure areas, subtle calls can work better than aggressive ones.

How can I tell if a turkey is roosting in a specific area?
Listen for gobbles at dawn and look for droppings under large trees.
Roosting spots are usually near water sources or in areas with tall trees. Around St. Augustine, check along creek edges or in oak hammocks. If you hear consistent gobbles from the same area in the morning or find tracks and droppings nearby, you’ve likely found a roost.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for an “easy” hunt, this isn’t it. But if you’re ready to work for it, the payoff can be huge. Out here, you’re dealing with Osceolas, which means thick cover, pressured birds, and the kind of terrain that’ll test your patience and your legs. The guys who consistently fill their tags aren’t just lucky. They’re the ones who put in the time and understand how these birds move, feed, and respond.

Whether you’re working public land with its extra challenges or hunting private ground where the birds are a little less jumpy, the formula is the same—know the land, set up smart, and don’t screw up when the moment comes. Some days it all clicks, and other days you’re sitting there watching squirrels and wondering what went wrong. That’s just how it goes.

If you’re heading out for the turkey hunt season in St. Augustine this spring, go in ready. Whether you bag a bird or not, hunting turkeys around here is the kind of thing you’ll laugh about later—like when you swore that gobbler was coming in only to have him vanish like a ghost, or the time you sat still so long an ant bit you in the face. It’s not always perfect, but it’s always worth it. Get out there, enjoy the spring turkey hunt, and if nothing else, you’ll come home with some great stories!