The TPWD just increased the spring eastern turkey season in E Tx from 2 weeks to one month. The reason for the increase is the increased number of birds. Or so Parks and Wildlife says. Last year I tried to do some research for a trip over there. Only about a 1 1/2 maybe 2 hr drive. Well, I think the people of east texas want to keep the birds for themselves. Every check station I called said " No, no birds here." I called wardens and was told , "well, there are a few but good luck finding them, they are scattered all over the place."
So, here I go again. This time I am starting here. Can anyone give me any idea where I might find an Eastern Wild Turkey on public land in east Texas? There are 4 different National Forests in E TX and I am very willing to drive to any of them to scout. I really don't want to go into this blind. I have called the NTWF and got no help. How should I proceed?
Sorry about being so long at getting to the point. Thank you for any advice. Greg
Focus your scouting on Angelina National Forest, south of Hwy. 63 near the Angelina County/Jasper County line. Something around the area of Boykin Springs or the road to it holds the most birds. There are some north of it too but I know almost nothing of that area. I've seen turkeys in the FM road going to Caney Creek but not sure what's public and what's private in that area.
Peak day around here seems to be April 12, mid-to later in the monthanyway.
If you can get out after the first week or two and go during mid-week you will see less hunters and have a better chance.
You're welcome. If you're in Lufkin on the way to scout, you can pick up a topo map or two of the area at Everett and Griffith Engineering on N. Third St. for-I think- $5 each.
I've scouted the area a bit with a friend but I hunt private land in Nacogdoches Co.
Focus your scouting on Angelina National Forest, south of Hwy. 63 near the Angelina County/Jasper County line. Something around the area of Boykin Springs or the road to it holds the most birds. There are some north of it too but I know almost nothing of that area. I've seen turkeys in the FM road going to Caney Creek but not sure what's public and what's private in that area.
Peak day around here seems to be April 12, mid-to later in the monthanyway.
If you can get out after the first week or two and go during mid-week you will see less hunters and have a better chance.
I know I am a little late on this, but I shot my first bird in that exact location a few years ago. I walked a logging road for about 30 minutes without a peep, then BAM! two jakes nearly ran me over. One of them met a 3 1/2" Winchester #6.
I have also seen a few birds in Bannister WMA near Sam Rayburn and some good sign in Alazan Bayou WMA in Nacogdoches.
East Texas Easterns ?
