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Commission committee backs earlier turkey opener (2026 alternative) to reflect public input while preserving youth opportunity
Summary
The Wildlife Committee adopted the agency‑reviewed "2026 alternative," setting a spring turkey opener earlier (April 3) while keeping youth hunting days aligned with traditional dates; the committee vote was 4–2 in favor and the matter will be presented to the full commission.
The Wildlife Committee voted to advance a recommended change to the spring turkey season start date, adopting the "2026 alternative" that would open the 2027 spring season April 3. Commissioners said the change strikes a compromise between hunters favoring earlier openers and the agency’s desire for three‑year stability under its adaptive harvest management process.
Commissioner Ford Little moved the change after several commissioners urged the committee to give weight to the large volume of public comments favoring an earlier opener. The motion carried in committee on a roll call vote recorded by staff (committee tally: 4 yes, 2 no). The committee chair said youth hunting days would remain tied to the traditional youth date so juvenile opportunity is not reduced.
Agency staff cautioned that the adaptive harvest management approach aims to hold many regulations constant for three years so the agency can evaluate the effect of changes; staff said the agency still prefers minimal annual changes but will respect the committee’s direction and bring the recommendation to the full commission.
The committee’s action now moves the proclamation forward; the full commission will consider the recommendation at its next meeting. If adopted, the agency said regulations and the hunting guide will be updated to reflect the adjusted calendar.
