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The Draw System
If you’re a turkey hunter, you know that Mississippi is one of the best places to bag your tom. But did you know that Mississippi offers a draw system for turkey hunting? The draw system is a lottery that hunters enter to receive a permit to hunt in specific areas during specific times. The number of permits available varies by area and time.
How to Enter the Draw
To enter the draw, you must have a valid Mississippi hunting license and a wild turkey hunting permit. You can enter the draw online or by mail. The application period typically opens in early January and closes in early February. The results of the draw are usually announced in early March.
The Hunting Season
The turkey hunting season in Mississippi typically runs from early March through early May. However, the season dates may vary depending on the area. It’s important to check the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks website for the exact season dates in your area.
The Bag Limit
The bag limit for turkey hunting in Mississippi is one adult gobbler per day or three per season, whichever comes first. However, there are additional regulations for specific areas, so it’s important to check the regulations for the area in which you’ll be hunting.
The Best Places to Hunt
Mississippi is home to some of the best turkey hunting in the country. Some of the top areas for turkey hunting include the Delta, the Black Prairie, the Tombigbee National Forest, and the Homochitto National Forest.
Tips for a Successful Hunt
To increase your chances of a successful hunt, it’s important to scout the area beforehand to locate the turkey’s roosting spots. It’s also important to use a turkey call to lure the turkey into range. Patience is key, as turkeys can be elusive and easily spooked.
The Benefits of Draw Hunts
The draw system for turkey hunting in Mississippi has several benefits. It helps to manage the turkey population by limiting the number of hunters in specific areas. It also allows hunters to have a better chance of hunting in areas that are known to have a high turkey population.
The Drawbacks of Draw Hunts
However, there are also some drawbacks to the draw system. Not everyone who enters the draw will receive a permit, which can be disappointing. Additionally, the draw system may limit hunters’ ability to hunt during peak times or in their preferred area.
Conclusion
Overall, Mississippi turkey draw hunts are an excellent opportunity for hunters to bag their tom in some of the best turkey hunting areas in the country. While there are some drawbacks to the draw system, the benefits far outweigh them. So, if you’re a turkey hunter looking for a new challenge, consider entering the Mississippi turkey draw hunt.