Kansas Archery Turkey

[Luketheduke9455]

I drew a spring turkey tag for Kansas this year (2026) unit 2. I have hunted this area before with success but I am seriously considering going for the early archery only season this year rather than the standard all weapon season I have hunted in the past. I would be hunting exclusively on public land and would be there around April 8th. I am not looking for spots as I am familiar with the area and have not had trouble finding birds I’m just curious as to what to expect during that early archery season. Specifically I’m curious if anyone had found that season to be productive? Are the birds typically flocked up to the point of being unreceptive? What is the pressure like compared to gun season? Again this would be central Kansas Unit 2 in the early April timeframe. Thanks in advance for any input.

 

[Duckhunterbrad]

pressure will be considerably less than normal season and the birds will be flocked up a bit. Mid-day will be the time to call one in, if you don't get one right off the roost.

 

[Skerhunter]

It is weather dependent, but this year has been warm. Multiple days in the 70s and the toms will be on walk about traveling a good ways from the roost. This can start in march!

Generally the hens don’t get really spread out until later in April. A cold snap can push them all back towards the winter roost.

Hunting is great if you can access them! Properties that hold birds in may will be empty early April. Any areas that hold a winter roost will be great hunting early April.

 

[Luketheduke9455]

pressure will be considerably less than normal season and the birds will be flocked up a bit. Mid-day will be the time to call one in, if you don't get one right off the roost.

Thank you for your input!

 

[Luketheduke9455]

It is weather dependent, but this year has been warm. Multiple days in the 70s and the toms will be on walk about traveling a good ways from the roost. This can start in march!

Generally the hens don’t get really spread out until later in April. A cold snap can push them all back towards the winter roost.

Hunting is great if you can access them! Properties that hold birds in may will be empty early April. Any areas that hold a winter roost will be great hunting early April.

Thanks for sharing!

 

[CMF]

hunted a different unit, but the pressure was somewhat less. They are still very aware of your movement when drawing. I missed two with my bow. The hunting was still better than MS public land.