COLUMBUS, Ohio – The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife is now accepting applications for special spring 2025 wild turkey hunts and trout fishing access. Interested hunters and anglers have until Monday, March 31 to apply.
How to Apply
Participants can submit applications online through the Ohio Wildlife Licensing System or the HuntFish OH mobile app. A nonrefundable $3 fee is required for each application. Phone applications can be made by calling 1-866-703-1928, though an additional $5.50 service fee applies. Mail-in applications are not accepted. Successful applicants will be selected through a random, computer-based lottery system.
Wild Turkey Hunting Opportunities
Controlled spring wild turkey hunts will take place at select public hunting areas, including:
- Eagle Creek (Brown County)
- Killbuck Marsh (Wayne County)
- Killdeer Plains (Wyandot County)
- Lake La Su An (Williams County)
- Mosquito Creek (Trumbull County)
- Woodland Trails (Preble County)
Both mentor-style and general applicant hunts are available, with dates varying based on location and permit length.
Eligibility Requirements
- Youth hunts: Open to applicants 17 and younger, accompanied by a nonhunting adult.
- New hunters: Those who have not harvested a wild turkey in the past five years are eligible.
- Mentor-style hunts: Both mentor and learner can harvest a turkey, but the learner must shoot first.
All hunters must hold a valid Ohio hunting license and wild turkey permit before applying. Licenses and permits can be obtained at wildohio.gov, via the HuntFish OH app, or at an authorized license vendor.
Cold Creek Trout Fishing Access
Anglers can apply for special trout fishing opportunities at Cold Creek in Erie County, one of Ohio’s most unique fishing locations. A half-mile section of Cold Creek at Castalia State Fish Hatchery will be open for lottery winners on select dates between May 5 and November 28, 2025.
Fishing Lottery Details
- Adult season: Up to 96 permits available
- Youth season (ages 4-15): Up to 84 permits available
- Participants can bring up to five guests (two adults, three children under 16)
- All anglers 16 and older must have a valid Ohio fishing license
Get Outdoors with Wild Ohio Harvest
Whether you’re a beginner or experienced outdoorsman, the Wild Ohio Harvest program offers resources on hunting, fishing, and wild game cooking. Visit wildohio.gov for more information.
ODNR’s Mission
The Ohio Division of Wildlife is dedicated to conserving and enhancing fish and wildlife resources for sustainable use and public appreciation. To learn more, visit ohiowdnr.gov.
