May 1st is the start of Spring turkey season.
For the Spring Turkey Season, May 1 through 31, hunting is permitted in most areas of the state, except for New York City and Long Island; hunters must have a turkey hunting permit in addition to their small game hunting or sportsman license; shooting hours are from one-half hour before sunrise to noon each day; hunters may take two bearded turkeys during the spring season, but only one bird per day; hunters may not use rifles, or handguns firing a bullet. Hunters may hunt with a shotgun or handgun loaded with shot sizes no larger than No. 2 or smaller than No. 8, or with a bow and arrow; successful hunters must fill out the tag which comes with their turkey permit and immediately attach it to any turkey harvested; successful hunters must report their harvest within 48 hours of taking a bird. Call 1-866-426-3778 (1-866 GAMERPT) or report harvest online at: www.dec.ny.gov