Lands_Content Page_Turkey Hunter Access Program

Turkey Hunting Access Program

Two people are kneeing in the grass setting up their decoy turkeys for turkey hunting.

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What is THAP?

The Turkey Hunting Access Program (THAP) provides financial incentives to private landowners who allow hunters to access their property. Spring turkey hunting is the only activity allowed on THAP properties. Hunters do not need landowner permission to access THAP properties. Lands are open from March 1 - May 29 for spring turkey hunting and scouting only. 

This program falls under the umbrella of Voluntary Public Access (VPA), a federally-funded initiative to provide recreation access to private lands. See the DNR's VPA webpage for more information.

Code of Conduct

Hours Of Operation

  • Properties are open 24/7 during seasons allowed. Camping is prohibited.

Property Use

  • Allowed wildlife-dependent recreation activities are determined by access type. Dogs are not allowed except for hunting purposes.
  • Vehicles are prohibited. This includes snowmobiles, ATVs, motorbikes, bicycles and horses.

Safety And Conduct

  • Follow all state regulations for public land.
  • Do not contact landowners of properties for permission to access. All properties are open to public access. Direct access questions to the VPA coordinator at DNRVPALands@wisconsin.gov or 608-800-1343.
  • Park wisely on the shoulder of a public road or in a designated parking area. Do not block access to farm fields or pastures. Leave gates as you found them.
  • Be ethical, courteous and safe. Abuse it and lose it. Report violations to 1-800-TIP-WDNR (1-800-847-9367).

Respect The Landowner And The Land

  • Only access areas posted with public access signs. Know the field boundaries and do not trespass on surrounding private land.
  • Maintain a distance of 300 feet from farmsteads and buildings.
  • Take care to avoid damage to property and standing crops.
  • Be aware of invasive species and prevent the spread by cleaning all boots, equipment, dogs, etc. before entering and leaving a property.
  • Portable structures and trail cameras are acceptable but take care to avoid damaging trees and take equipment with you when you leave. Traps, where allowed, are exempt.
  • Do not litter. Pack out spent shotgun shells or rifle casings.

Maps

Find a THAP Property using the Interactive Map.

Or, find a property by county:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

View our General Program and THAP User FAQs for more information.

Other Lands

Landowners

We are not currently enrolling new properties. Register your interest for future enrollment by completing an interest survey.

Lease rates are $5/acre/year. Payment is an upfront lump sum within 60 days of signing. Funding is primarily provided by a federal grant which is administered and provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture NRCS. Properties must be greater than 40 acres and have adequate wild turkey habitat for quality hunting opportunities.

View the THAP Landowner FAQs for more information.

This material is based upon work supported by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, under number #NR245F48XXXXG004.