Resident Small Game

March 9, 2023

Question: Can I legally take a turkey with a bolt action .22 long rifle that uses Ruger 10-22 magazines? The factory magazine holds 10 rounds, and I would replace it with a single shot magazine.

Answer: No. Rifles are not a legal method of take for resident game birds. Authorized methods of take can be found in CDFW’s Waterfowl and Upland Game hunting regulation booklet (PDF)(opens in new tab), pages 27-28. The applicable regulation is California Code of Regulations, Title 14, section 311 which outlines methods authorized for taking resident small game.