Knowing the hunting season dates in Georgia is very important. It helps you stay within the law. If you hunt outside the legal dates, you can get fined or lose your license. The dates are set to protect animals and help keep their numbers balanced. This is also good for future hunting.
Season dates also help you plan better. You know when to prepare your gear and scout the area. It gives you time to get the right license and tags. You can also make sure your gun or bow is ready. Following the dates shows respect for nature and other hunters. It keeps the hunting experience fair and safe for everyone.
Table of Contents
Georgia Hunting Seasons
Deer Hunting Seasons
In Georgia, the 2024–2025 deer hunting season begins with archery from September 14 to October 11. Some counties allow extended archery hunts up until January 31. Primitive weapons and youth-only firearms are permitted from October 12 to October 18, followed by the general firearms season starting on October 19 and ending on January 12. In a few southwest counties, the firearms season continues until January 15.
Hunters are allowed to harvest up to 12 deer per season, but only 2 can be antlered bucks. One of the bucks must have at least four points on one side or a 15-inch spread. There are some specific rules depending on the county. For example, firearms are not allowed in Clayton, Cobb, DeKalb, and parts of Fulton County. In the southern part of Forsyth County, only shotguns and muzzleloaders are permitted. Counties with extended archery dates are listed on the official DNR website.
Bear Hunting Seasons
The bear hunting season in the northern region begins with archery from September 14 through October 11. This is followed by primitive weapons from October 12 to October 18 and then firearms season, which runs until January 12. In the central region, a firearms hunt is held on December 21, and the Georgia DNR might add another day depending on conditions. In the southern region, hunters can use firearms during four short periods between September 19 and October 12.
The bag limit for bear hunting is two per season, with no more than one allowed from the central or southern regions. Always check area-specific rules to avoid violations.
Turkey Hunting Seasons
For the 2025 turkey hunting season, private land hunting will start on March 29 and end on May 15. On public lands, the season will open a little later, beginning April 5 and running through May 15. A special opportunity hunt for youth and mobility-impaired hunters is scheduled for March 22–23.
Hunters are allowed to take two gobblers during the season. However, if hunting on public land, only one gobbler may be taken per area. Make sure to follow all tagging and reporting rules.
Small Game and Other Animals
The quail season in Georgia opens on the second Saturday of November. Fox and bobcat hunting runs from December 1 to February 28, while grouse can be hunted between October 15 and February 28. For raccoons and opossums, there is no closed season on private land. However, public land hunts are allowed from August 15 to February 28.
Feral hogs may be hunted year-round with no restrictions on bag limits. However, specific weapon regulations and land access rules may apply, especially on public land or wildlife management areas.
Alligator Hunting Season
The alligator season in Georgia is a quota-only hunt that begins at sunset on August 15 and ends at sunrise on October 6, 2025. Those interested in participating must apply in advance and be selected through the state’s quota lottery system. Rules around locations, tagging, and equipment are strictly enforced.
Only hunters who receive a quota permit can take part, and they must report their harvest to the state. Make sure to apply early and review the gear guidelines before the season starts.
Specific Start Dates for Each Hunting Season
In Georgia, hunting season does not start at the same time for all animals. Each species has its own opening date, based on the type of weapon and location. For deer, the season starts with archery on September 14, 2024. Primitive weapons begin on October 12, and firearms open on October 19. Some areas allow extra archery time that goes until January 31, 2025.
Turkey season starts March 29, 2025, for private land and April 5 for public land. Bear hunting begins September 14 in the north and September 19 in the south. Quail season starts the second Saturday of November. Alligator season begins August 15, 2025, but only for those with quota permits. Every animal and weapon type has its own starting day, so it’s important to check the official Georgia DNR website before heading out to hunt.
Special Youth and Disabled Hunter Seasons
Georgia offers special hunting days just for youth and hunters with disabilities. These days give them a safer and less crowded time to enjoy hunting. It also allows them to learn or take part in hunting before the regular season begins.
For the 2025 turkey season, youth and mobility-impaired hunters can hunt on March 22 and 23. This applies to both private and public land. For deer hunting, there is a special week from October 12 to October 18, 2024. During this time, only youth and those with certain disabilities can use primitive weapons. These special dates help more people enjoy hunting while building skills and confidence in the field.
Tips for Preparing for Georgia Hunting Season
- Look up the exact start and end dates for each animal. Some seasons depend on the weapon and county, so don’t guess.
- Make sure your hunting license is valid and that you have all required tags. Without them, you can’t legally hunt.
- If you were born after January 1, 1961, you must take a hunter safety course. This helps you understand rules and stay safe.
- Clean your weapon, check for damage, and test all equipment. Don’t wait until the day of the hunt.
- Walk around the land before the season starts. Learn the paths, spot animal tracks, and plan where to hunt.
- Go to a shooting range or a safe place to practice. Good aim keeps you accurate and avoids mistakes.
- Georgia DNR rules can change each year. Make sure you follow bag limits, weapon rules, and county laws.
- Wear camo or gear that blends in with the surroundings. Also, dress for the weather to stay warm, dry, and comfortable.
Conclusion
Knowing when Georgia hunting seasons start is very important. Each animal has different dates and rules. Checking these before you go helps you stay legal and safe. Always follow the latest information from the Georgia DNR to avoid problems.
Preparing early makes your hunting experience better. Get your license, practice shooting, and visit the hunting areas beforehand. By doing these things, you can enjoy the season and hunt responsibly. Staying informed and ready helps protect wildlife and keeps hunting fun for everyone.
