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Is it Legal to Hunt Merriam's Turkeys at Night in Colorado?

April 5, 2026

Quick Answer

In Colorado, hunting Merriam's turkeys at night is not allowed. However, there is an exception for youth hunters under 18 years old who can hunt turkeys at night with a licensed adult. The adult must be within 10 yards of the youth hunter at all times.

Colorado Turkey Hunting Regulations

In Colorado, Merriam’s turkeys are a popular game bird species. The annual spring turkey hunting season typically runs from mid-April to mid-May. During this time, hunters can only hunt turkeys from a half hour before sunrise to a half hour after sunset, with a bag limit of two bearded turkeys per hunter.

Night Turkey Hunting in Colorado

There are specific regulations for night turkey hunting in Colorado, particularly for youth hunters. According to the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission, youth hunters (under 18 years old) can hunt turkeys at night with a licensed adult. The adult must be within 10 yards of the youth hunter at all times and must remain in a position where they can visually see the youth hunter. This allows the adult to supervise and ensure the youth hunter is following all safety protocols and regulations.

Safety Considerations for Night Turkey Hunting

When hunting turkeys at night, it’s essential to exercise extreme caution and follow all safety guidelines. This includes wearing blaze orange or pink clothing, carrying a flashlight or headlamp, and making noise while walking to avoid startling the turkey. Additionally, hunters should be aware of their surroundings and keep a safe distance from other hunters and potential obstacles such as trees or rocks.

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