SCDNR accepting lottery turkey hunt applications

Hunters may apply through March 2

The SCDNR has begun accepting applications for lottery turkey hunts on select WMAs for the 2020 spring season. Hunters can apply through March 2 at 5 p.m. through the agency’s website.

Hunters must pay a non-refundable fee of $5 when they apply. The SCDNR is also accepting applications for a separate youth lottery hunt drawing. These also require a $5 non-refundable fee.

When applying, you are given the choice of five WMAs, and multiple dates for each one. Participating WMAs are Donnelley, Santee Cooper, Bonneau Ferry, Belfast, and Wateree River WMA.

You fill the application out in the order of your preference. Once the selection process takes place, the SCDNR will notify those selected for any of the hunts.

Turkey tags are not free this year

Another draw hunt opportunity that is separate from these draw hunts is at Carolina Sandhills National Wildlife Refuge. Anyone interested in this hunt must contact Carolina Sandhills directly at 843-335-6026.

Hunters should note that unlike years past, turkey tags are no longer free. Hunters must purchase them online, by phone, at SCDNR regional offices, or from a certified SCDNR license vendor.

Turkey tags will be mailed out in early February. They will not be available at SCDNR regional offices until late February. The tag fee is $5 for residents, and that is good for three turkey tags. The non-resident tag fee is $100, which includes two tags.

Youth hunters under the age of 16-years-old can receive a set of free tags. Resident lifetime license holders, senior hunters, and hunters that are certified as 100% disabled by the Social Security Administration or the Veterans Administration may also receive a free set of tags.

This year’s turkey season runs April 1 through May 1 on private lands in Game Zones 1 and 2. It will open on March 22 and run through April 30 in Game Zones 3 and 4.

Click here to apply for the WMA lottery hunts.