PRATT – It’s hard to beat hunting turkeys during the spring season in Kansas. Weather has warmed up, birds are active and on the move, and it’s the start of a new hunting season. But what if there was a way to top this? There is. Try adding special access to quality lands not normally open to hunting, and it wouldn’t cost you a penny. If you think this sounds like a pipe dream, chances are, you aren’t familiar with the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism’s Special Hunts Program. Special Hunts provide access to public and private lands that are not open to unrestricted public access. There’s no fee to apply, the draw is open to residents and nonresidents, and opportunities abound, with 160 individual permits and 79 special hunts available for spring turkey this year. Applications are being accepted through 9 a.m. on Feb. 29. To apply, and to obtain detailed information on all available hunts, visit ksoutdoors.com/Hunting/Special-Hunts-Information.

Out of the 79 hunts available, 29 are open hunts (open to all), 19 are mentor hunts (both beginner and mentor may hunt), and 31 are youth hunts (youth hunt only). These hunts will occur on nine separate land parcels spanning five counties, five wildlife areas, two city and county properties, one state park, and one national wildlife refuge.

Successful applicants will be notified shortly after the random drawing has occurred. Special Hunts only provides access, so hunters must still purchase all licenses and permits required by law.

For information on other spring turkey hunting opportunities, visit ksoutdoors.com and click “Hunting” and “Turkey Information.”

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