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Guided Turkey Hunting Trips
In Okeechobee FL
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Are Osceola turkeys rare?
There are only about 100,000 Osecola turkey, making it one of the most challenging, and rewarding persuits.
Are Osceola turkeys aggressive?
Yes, Osceola turkeys are known for being aggressive. They have the longest spurs among all wild turkeys, which is a characteristic often associated with their aggressive nature.
What is considered a trophy Osceola turkey?
A trophy Osceola turkey is often defined by the length of its beard and leg spurs. According to the Florida Wild Turkey Registry, a turkey qualifies as a trophy if it has a beard that is 11 inches or longer, and each leg spur must meet or exceed 1.25 inches
What is the difference between eastern and osceola turkey?
The Eastern wild turkey, with its wide range across the eastern United States, is larger and has chestnut-brown tail feather tips, while the Osceola wild turkey, exclusive to the Florida peninsula, is smaller, darker, and adapted to swampy environments. Eastern turkeys adapt to various habitats, including hardwood forests and agricultural fields, and form larger flocks. Osceola turkeys, on the other hand, thrive in the dense, swampy habitats of Florida and are known for their wariness, making them a challenging hunt. Differences in physical characteristics and behaviors between the two subspecies are significant for hunters and wildlife enthusiasts. The eastern turkey is not typically found in south Florida.
Florida Turkey Hunting Guides
Engaging in a Florida Osceola turkey hunt is considered one of the most challenging pursuits, with the elusive nature of the turkey making it a tough yet rewarding catch. Indulge in the thrill of hunting the elusive Osceola turkey, a prized game bird unique to the Florida peninsula, with our expertly guided Florida Osceola Turkey Hunts. The Osceola turkey, also revered as the Florida turkey, is one of the five magnificent subspecies of wild turkey in North America, attracting hunting enthusiasts to Florida’s lush hunting grounds.
Experience the Unique Florida Osceola Turkey Hunts
Our diverse hunting packages cater to both novice and seasoned hunters, offering tailored experiences. Our guided hunts are designed to provide a memorable and fruitful hunting adventure in the heart of Florida’s diverse ecosystems.
Preparation for Your Hunt
We recommend equipping yourself with a shotgun of twelve gauge or greater, loaded with high-brass magnum loads of three inches or more, filled with sizes two, four, or six, or a mix of twos and fours. It’s essential to familiarize yourself with your shotgun’s unique pattern by testing the chosen loads beforehand, ensuring a safe and successful hunt. Though the primary physical activity is walking, we advise participants to be in good health to fully enjoy the expedition.
Licensing and Permits
To partake in the Florida Osceola Turkey Hunts, clients are required to obtain a hunting license and a turkey permit. The costs are as follows:
- Yearly Resident License: $17.00
- Non-resident 10-day License: $46.50
- Turkey Permit for Residents: $10.00
- Turkey Permit for Non-residents: $125.00
For comprehensive information on licensing requirements, costs, and purchasing options, visit GoOutdoorsFlorida.
Booking Your Adventure
Secure your spot in one of our coveted Florida Osceola Turkey Hunts and embrace the chance to hunt this distinguished bird under Florida’s serene sky. For more information on our hunts, or to book your adventure, explore our Trips and Packages or contact us directly.
Extra Information on Osceola Turkeys
The Osceola turkey, also known as the Florida turkey, is a unique subspecies of wild turkey native to the Florida peninsula. Here is a detailed breakdown of information about the Osceola turkey:
Habitat and Distribution:
- Florida is the only place in the world where Osceola turkeys are found, predominantly residing in central and southern Florida, mainly south of Orlando.
- They prefer habitats like swamps, palmettos, and cattle pastures within the state. Ancient swamps with giant cypress trees are especially favored as they offer refuge from pressure and are rich in bug and reptile life, which are among the preferred foods for these turkeys.
Physical Characteristics:
- Osceola turkeys have a darker coloring compared to other turkey species. They exhibit brown-tipped tail coverts (smaller feathers covering the larger feathers) and dark brown tail feathers.
- Typically, Osceola turkeys have shorter beards than the eastern wild turkey but possess very long spurs. The caruncles (wattles) on gobbler heads are red-colored throughout the year but may also contain intense shades of blue and white during the breeding season.
Population:
- The estimated population of Osceola turkeys in Florida is about 100,000 birds.
Hunting:
- The exclusivity of their habitat makes Osceola turkeys one of the most sought-after game species for hunters, making the hunt quite challenging due to the high demand and low supply of these birds1.
Historical Significance:
- They are named after the famous Seminole Indian, Chief Osceola.
The Osceola turkey’s unique habitat, physical characteristics, and the challenging aspect of hunting them, along with their historical significance, make them a fascinating subject for both wildlife enthusiasts and hunters.
OSCEOLA TURKEY HUNTING INFORMATION
Call for Pricing
- All hunts will be with one guide and one customer, unless you have two people in your party and at this time you might be one guide and two customers.
- Hunts consist of 3 day hunts (3 morning and 3 afternoon) or harvested bird, whichever comes first
- Truly Wild Hunts
- All turkey hunts are free range.
Season Dates
Dates run from late February until late April.
Call (863) 801-1803 for Details
Limited Hunts
The number of birds available for sale each turkey season varies, and this is a first come first serve basis. We will not hold birds without payment. Anyone wanting to book their Florida Osceola Turkey Hunts need to do so as soon as possible as these birds do not last long. Call for more information.
Hunting Methods
- Ground Blind
- Spot and Stalk
Hunting Weapons
- Shot Gun
- Bow
- Cross Bow
Hunting Times
Call (863) 801-1803 for Details
Include 3 Day Lodging
Save 35% on lodging when booking your hunt by purchasing a premium package that includes lodging for 3 days.
Licenses
| Resident | Non-Resident | |
|---|---|---|
| Hunting Lic. 10 Day | N/A | $46.50 |
| Hunting Lic. Year | $17.50 | $151.50 |
| Turkey Permit | $10 | $125 |