COLUMBUS (AP) — Ohio hunters can soon hunt wild turkeys as the state prepares to open the spring season later this month.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources says the spring season is set to start April 18, while the youth-only season will occur April 16 and 17.

The state expects about 65,000 hunters will participate in the wild turkey season before it ends May 15.

Licensed hunters are required to have a spring turkey-hunting permit. They can use shotguns or archery equipment, but are barred from using bait, electronic calling devices or live decoys. They must report their harvest using the automated game-check system.

The spring season bag limit is two bearded turkeys.

According to the natural resources department, Ohio has a current wild turkey population of about 175,000.