April is a month full of life — flowers bloom, wildlife awakens, and for many hunters across the United States, it marks the beginning of spring hunting season. While most people associate hunting with the fall rut or winter rifle seasons, April offers some of the most exciting and affordable hunting opportunities of the year.
In this full guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about April hunting: what you can hunt, how to prepare, and where to go for success — all with a focus on simplicity, legality, and strategy.
What Makes April Hunting Special?
April offers a fresh experience for hunters. The temperatures are milder, the woods are greener, and species like wild turkey, hogs, spring bear, and even furbearers are actively moving. For many, spring hunting brings fewer crowds, easier terrain access, and an overall more relaxed pace.
Spring hunting is also key to wildlife management, helping maintain balance in animal populations. Licenses and tags purchased during this season support conservation efforts.
Popular Game to Hunt in April
Here are the top animals you can legally hunt in most states during April (always confirm with your state’s regulations):
Wild Turkey
- Most states open spring turkey season in April.
- Legal methods usually include shotguns and archery.
- Calling is essential — learn diaphragm, slate, and box calls.
Feral Hogs
- In states like Texas, hogs can be hunted year-round.
- Use spot and stalk methods or thermal optics for night hunts.
- Public land and farmer’s fields are both commonly hunted.
Spring Black Bear
- Active in places like Alaska, Wyoming, Idaho.
- Typically spot and stalk hunts, often combined with backcountry fishing.
- Requires proper tags and often nonresident planning.
Small Game & Furbearers
- Depending on location, species like coyote, bobcat, raccoon, beaver, and fox may be in season.
- These hunts are affordable, accessible, and great for honing your skills.
Tips for Success in April
- Scout Smart: Use apps like HuntWise or onX to mark terrain, roosts, trails.
- Understand Wind: Spring winds can be unpredictable. Plan entry/exit routes to stay undetected.
- Use the Terrain: Natural funnels, ditches, and creeks are perfect for silent approaches.
- Layer Your Clothing: Spring weather shifts fast — pack for both cool mornings and warm afternoons.
- Know the Rules: Always check local season dates, bag limits, and weapon restrictions.
Recommended Gear for April Hunts
- Turkey: Slate calls, diaphragm calls, full camo (including face mask and gloves), ground blind, decoys.
- Hogs: Night vision or thermal optics, high-caliber rifle, scent blocker spray, hunting license.
- Black Bear: Quality binoculars, heavy-duty pack, GPS device, scent control, and bear spray.
- Small Game: .22 rifle or shotgun, lightweight camo, game bags, predator calls.
State-by-State Regulation Tips
Each state varies in season dates, methods allowed, and bag limits. Here are a few highlights:
- Texas: No closed season on feral hogs; night hunting legal with proper equipment.
- Georgia: Spring turkey runs through April; youth-only hunts available early in the month.
- Idaho: Bear and turkey both open; nonresidents should apply early for permits.
- New York: Turkey season begins late April; archery-only areas offer less pressure.
Always visit your state wildlife agency’s website for the most current laws and updates.
Budget-Friendly April Hunts
Hunting in April can be cost-effective. Here’s how to make it even more affordable:
- Hunt public lands: National forests, wildlife refuges, or BLM land.
- Split travel and lodging with friends or hunt partners.
- Look for youth and mentor hunts which often offer reduced fees.
- DIY hunts (no guide) cut down costs significantly.
- Target furbearers and hogs, which often require no extra tags or are unlimited.
Advanced Tactics by Species
- Turkey: Roost scouting the night before is critical; soft yelps at sunrise can seal the deal.
- Hogs: Hunt near water and dense cover; move slow and use scent control.
- Bear: Glass high ridgelines at sunrise and sunset; set up near food sources.
- Predators: Use distress calls, set up with wind in face, and hunt early or late in the day.
Final Thoughts
Hunting in April offers more than just filling a tag — it provides a chance to explore nature in full bloom, test your skills in mild weather, and chase a variety of game across the country. With proper planning, budget awareness, and respect for local laws, April might just become your new favorite hunting season.