When is Deer Gun Season in Ohio?
Ohio’s deer gun season is a highly anticipated event for hunters across the state. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newbie, it’s essential to know when the season begins and ends, as well as the regulations surrounding it. In this article, we’ll dive into the details of Ohio’s deer gun season, including the dates, zones, and important guidelines to keep in mind.
When Does Deer Gun Season Start and End in Ohio?
The regular firearms season for deer in Ohio typically begins on the second Monday of November and ends on the last Sunday in November. However, special antlerless only seasons may occur before or after the regular season, and youth gun season usually takes place on the first Sunday of November.
Here are the exact dates for deer gun season in Ohio:
| Season | Start Date | End Date |
|---|---|---|
| Regular Firearms Season | 2nd Monday in November | Last Sunday in November |
| Special Antlerless Only Season (Zone A) | To be announced | To be announced |
| Special Antlerless Only Season (Zone B) | To be announced | To be announced |
| Youth Gun Season | 1st Sunday in November | 1st Sunday in November |
Ohio Deer Gun Season Zones
Ohio is divided into Zone A and Zone B, which determine the hunting seasons and bag limits. The zones are as follows:
- Zone A: Northeast Ohio, including Ashtabula, Geauga, Lake, Trumbull, and Ashtabula counties.
- Zone B: Southwestern and southeastern Ohio, including Adams, Brown, Clermont, Clinton, Hamilton, Pike, Scioto, and Warren counties.
Bag Limits and Possession Limits
Here are the bag limits and possession limits for deer in Ohio:
| Type of Deer | Bag Limit | Possession Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Antlered Deer | 1 | 3 |
| Antlerless Deer | Variable | Variable |
Antlerless deer bag limits vary by zone and can be found on the Ohio Department of Natural Resources’ (ODNR) website.
Hunting Hours and Methods
Hunting hours for deer gun season in Ohio are:
- 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset
Hunters are allowed to use the following methods during deer gun season:
- Firearm hunting (including muzzleloaders and centerfire rifles)
- Archery hunting is not permitted during deer gun season
- Traps and baiting are prohibited during deer gun season
Permits and Requirements
To hunt deer during gun season in Ohio, you’ll need to possess the following permits and requirements:
- A valid Ohio hunting license
- A deer hunting permit
- A federal migratory bird permit (if you plan to hunt deer and migratory birds)
Additional Regulations
Here are some additional regulations to keep in mind when hunting deer during gun season in Ohio:
- Youth hunters: Must be accompanied by an adult hunter at least 18 years old.
- Resident and non-resident hunters: Can hunt during the same dates and in the same areas.
- Deer movement restrictions: Certain roads and highways may be closed to deer movement during hunting seasons.
- Harvest log: Hunters must log their deer harvest using the Ohio Wildlife Officer mobile app or a paper harvest log.
Conclusion
Ohio’s deer gun season is an exciting time for hunters, and it’s essential to be aware of the dates, zones, bag limits, and regulations surrounding the season. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just starting out, make sure to follow all the guidelines and regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable hunting experience. Happy hunting!
