Minnesota spring turkey hunters were surveyed last spring and the results were very positive, said Dunton, who helped compile the report that is available on the DNR Web site.

They speak volumes about Minnesota turkey hunting and can be used by hunters to help plan their hunt this year and in the future.

Hunters rated the quality of their hunt a 7.5 with 10 being excellent and 0 being poor. Considering that only 33 percent of turkey hunters were successful last spring, it demonstrates that a high-quality hunt doesn't have to include bagging a bird by most hunters' perspectives.

"The number one comment from the hunters we surveyed was that they enjoyed the opportunity to turkey hunt and simply enjoyed being in the woods," Dunton said.

Sitting in the woods listening to a distant gobble come closer is one of the more exhilarating experiences one can have in life. Waking up from a nap or having a big tom sneak up on you only to gobble a few feet away is even more exhilarating and something you have to experience to fully understand.

Take Advantage Of Changes
Not much has changed this season, although several major changes in the past two years should encourage turkey hunters to brush up on their regulations.

The only significant change this year is the addition of seven new permit areas and the combining of two metro permit areas into one. Waterfowlers know the benefit of having fresh birds in the area and turkey hunters could lend a few tips on this one. If there are extra permits available in one of the new permit areas, consider buying one of them.

Tangen said southeastern Minnesota turkeys are an experienced bunch led by trophy toms that have seen their fair share of hunters. Areas recently opened for turkey hunting should be considered because those birds are more easily decoyed, respond better to calling and are more forgiving with hunter mistakes.

Another change the last few seasons requires hunters to be aware of the expansion of shooting hours to sunset so more hunters can have more time in the field.

The most exciting adjustment was the addition of a spring archery license that may be purchased and used for the last two periods in any permit area with 50 or more permits.