Citations for illegal baiting for turkeys before and during the annual spring gobbler season may be on the increase this year, according to Col. David Murphy, Law Enforcement Section Chief of the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources.
"We receive numerous reports of baited areas just prior to and during the early days of the spring gobbler season. For the past few years, it seems to be more widespread," Col. Murphy said.  "We urge anyone who has any information about turkey hunting over bait to report it by calling the West Virginia DNR Law Enforcement Section's hotline number at 1-800- 638-4263 or a local district office. Illegal activity can also be reported to the Law Enforcement Section's e-mail address: Law@wvdnr.gov ."

West Virginia law prohibits hunting, trapping or taking turkey by the aid of baiting, or on or over any baited area. Baiting is the placing, exposing, depositing, distributing or scattering of corn, wheat or other grain, or other feed so as to constitute for turkeys a lure or attraction to, on, or over any areas where hunters are attempting to take them. A baited area shall remain a baited area for 10 days following complete removal of all the baited materials.

The penalty for conviction of illegal baiting of wild turkey is a $20 - $300 fine and/or 10 - 100 days in jail, plus $160.50 court cost.

The West Virginia spring gobbler season is April 28 "“ May 24, 2008, in all counties. Hunting regulations are available at all hunting license agents or online at www.wvdnr.gov .