Iowa Wildlife Managers Approve Sunday Hunting for Fall 2025 Turkey Season

In a pivotal meeting held on July 28, 2025, the Pennsylvania Game Commission gathered to discuss the future of wild turkey hunting, particularly focusing on the implications of introducing Sunday hunting during the fall season. Mary Jo Casalina, the wild turkey biologist, presented insights from the Iowa Bureau, emphasizing the importance of a ten-year management plan aimed at sustaining turkey populations while balancing social and biological factors.

Casalina highlighted that wild turkey populations experience significant annual fluctuations, making precise short-term control challenging. However, through careful monitoring and habitat management, the Commission aims to facilitate positive long-term trends. For the upcoming fall 2025 season, the Commission has determined that there are no biological concerns regarding the addition of one to three Sundays for hunting, particularly in areas where turkey populations are stable or increasing. Notably, regions with declining populations will see only one additional Sunday added to their hunting calendar.

The discussion also touched on the spring hunting season, where concerns about hen disturbance during critical nesting periods led to a recommendation against Sunday hunting. The youth hunting season was specifically noted for its potential impact on hen reproductive success, as it occurs before many hens begin nesting.

As the meeting progressed, questions arose regarding the management of second gobbler tags and the overall harvest numbers. Casalina indicated that approximately 21,500 second tags are issued annually, with a harvest ranging between 3,000 to 5,000 turkeys. The conversation shifted towards the possibility of adjusting the mentored hunt schedule to mitigate risks to vulnerable turkey populations.

The Commission's commitment to data-driven decisions was evident, with ongoing research studies expected to inform future recommendations. These studies, in collaboration with Penn State University, aim to provide deeper insights into turkey population dynamics and hunting mortality.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the Pennsylvania Game Commission's dedication to sustainable wildlife management, balancing hunting opportunities with ecological responsibility. As the fall 2025 season approaches, the Commission will continue to monitor turkey populations closely, ensuring that any changes to hunting regulations are grounded in solid research and data.