What Makes a Great Merriam’s Turkey State?

A quality Merriam’s destination typically offers:

• Expansive public land access

• Strong, stable turkey populations

• Diverse terrain—ponderosa pine, foothills, open ridges

• Reasonable tag availability

• Good travel access and hunt-friendly seasons

The following states consistently deliver all of the above.

1. South Dakota

South Dakota is widely considered the gold standard for Merriam’s hunting.

Why it stands out:

• Large, huntable populations in the Black Hills

• Rolling prairie and river-bottom opportunities across the state

• Generous access programs and public lands

• Excellent for both DIY and guided hunts

The Black Hills region offers classic mountain-style Merriam’s hunting with strong gobbling activity and abundant timbered draws.

2. Nebraska

Nebraska is one of the most underrated Merriam’s destinations—and one of the most hunter-friendly.

Highlights:

• Strong turkey numbers in the Pine Ridge and western regions

• Over-the-counter spring tags (varies by year)

• Mix of Merriam’s and hybrid birds, but plenty of classic white-tipped gobblers

• Varied terrain, from canyon country to river bottoms

The combination of access, populations, and easy license purchase makes Nebraska a perennial favorite.

3. Montana

Montana offers vast landscapes and low hunting pressure compared to many states.

Why hunters love it:

• Sprawling public lands throughout the western and central regions

• Good populations in ponderosa pine foothills, river breaks, and creek bottoms

• Excellent opportunity for combining multiple spring hunts (bear, shed hunting, etc.)

• Beautiful, remote scenery for immersive Western turkey hunting

Expect spot-and-call style hunts in big country where birds travel far between roost and feed.

4. Wyoming

Wyoming remains a top-tier state with healthy Merriam’s numbers and plenty of classic habitat.

Advantages:

• Strong flocks in the Black Hills and eastern regions

• Less pressure than neighboring states

• Lots of ranch country—great for guided hunts

• OTC tags in many units depending on the year

The mix of private ranchland and public timber creates consistent opportunity for vocal, unpressured birds.

5. Colorado

Although more variable than the states above, Colorado still provides excellent Merriam’s opportunities.

Notable strengths:

• Abundant public land in the foothills and mountain zones

• Birds concentrated in predictable roost-and-feed patterns

• Good draw odds in many regions

• Ideal destination for hunters seeking rugged, scenic terrain

Colorado turkeys can be more dispersed, but locating the right elevation band often leads to exceptional hunts.

6. New Mexico

Often overlooked, New Mexico has expanding populations of Merriam’s with surprisingly good hunting.

Benefits:

• Turkeys found in mountain ranges from the north to the southwest

• Less overall pressure than many western states

• Draw-based licensing keeps populations strong

• Unique, desert-meets-pine habitats

For hunters seeking a different flavor of Merriam’s country, New Mexico is a gem.

Tips for Planning a Merriam’s Turkey Hunt

Scout Elevation and Habitat

Look for:

• Ponderosa pine stands

• Creek bottoms

• Open ridges with roost sites

• Burn areas regenerating with grass and insects

Expect Big Country

Merriam’s often travel long distances daily. Stay mobile and ready to cover ground.

Be Ready for Fast-Moving Birds

These birds gobble a lot—but they also move quickly. Adapt to their pace with smart positioning.

Prepare for Variable Weather

Mountain states can shift from frost to sun in hours. Layering is key.

Why Many Hunters Book Guided Merriam’s Hunts

Outfitters specializing in Merriam’s offer:

• Access to prime roosting property

• Knowledge of daily bird movement

• Help navigating draw systems where applicable

• Terrain expertise for large, rugged landscapes

• Higher success rates for new Western turkey hunters

If you’re ready to chase white-tipped gobblers, you can compare vetted turkey outfitters and book through our hunt marketplace.

FAQs About Merriam’s Turkey Hunting

Where are Merriam’s turkeys most common?
Primarily in the Black Hills, Rockies, and western pine forests across SD, WY, CO, MT, and NM.

Do Merriam’s gobble more than Easterns?
They often gobble frequently but move more, requiring hunters to stay mobile.

Is Merriam’s turkey hunting physical?
Yes—many hunts involve hiking hills, ridges, and pine slopes.

Do I need a guide?
Not required, but guides help significantly in states with mixed public/private access or complex terrain.

Can Merriam’s be hunted with a bow?
Absolutely—many hunters successfully take Merriam’s with archery setups during spring seasons.

For hunters chasing the classic white-tipped gobbler in big Western country, these states consistently deliver. When you’re ready to plan your Merriam’s hunt, explore trusted outfitters and book through Find A Hunt.