Drawn for MS Upper Sardis turkey hunt

[elnor]

I just received notification that I was selected for an Upper Sardis WMA spring turkey hunt next month! First time I've ever been drawn for any controlled hunt, actually, so I'm thrilled!!!

Now the work begins: I'm gathering all information I can about Upper Sardis to start getting prepared for the hunt. Any pointers to maps, MS hunt regulations, specific areas to look at, etc. would be very, very appreciated.

Lookout MS gobblers, here I come...

[Rhino]

I can't give you any specifics since I've never turkey hunted up there. Closest town to find a motel is probably Oxford.

Here's a link to the Upper Sardis WMA map from the MDWFP web site. There is 42,274 acres in that management area.

http://www.mdwfp.com/level2/Wildlife/maps/pdf/2328.pdf

The Area Manager for Upper Sardis is Bobby Young and his phone number is (662) 234-6125.

Here's a link to any special regulations pertaining to the Upper Sardis WMA.

http://www.mdwfp.com/Level2/Wildlife.../2007/2328.pdf

It appears in the special regs that the bag limit is the same as the statewide bag limit. It also appears your permit is for March 15th through March 23rd. After that they open it up to anyone. You should enjoy the permit only/limited access period.

Mississippi's statewide bag limit for hunters 16 and over is 1 adult gobbler per day and 3 adult gobblers per season. To simplfy what gobblers are legal it must either have a 6" or longer beard or a full fan. A youth hunter 15 and under is allowed 1 jake in his 3 bird bag limit.

From the special regs it looks like you'll have to check your birds in so be careful out there.

As for any other regulations like legal shooting hours, legal weapons, shot size, etc., here's a link to the general hunting regualtions. It covers all game so look it over for issues that pertain to turkeys.

http://home.mdwfp.com/license.aspx

[elnor]

Excellent info, thanks. I'm following up on the links and plan to give Mr. Young a call today or tomorrow to ask some additional questions.

Meanwhile I'm going through gear and practicing my calling. The hunt starts three weeks from today and effectively moves the beginning of my turkey season up 2 1/2 weeks...can't wait!