When Does Deer Hunting Season End in Ohio?
Ohio is renowned for its rich deer hunting heritage, with over 750,000 deer hunters participating in the state’s deer hunting seasons every year. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife regulates deer hunting seasons to ensure a sustainable and healthy deer population. In this article, we will explore when deer hunting season ends in Ohio and provide essential information for hunters.
Direct Answer: When Does Deer Hunting Season End in Ohio?
Deer hunting seasons in Ohio typically end on January 31st. However, the exact dates may vary depending on the type of deer, the region, and the specific hunting season. Here’s a breakdown of the different deer hunting seasons and their corresponding end dates:
- Archery Deer Season: Typically ends on January 31st.
- Muzzleloader Deer Season: Typically ends on January 31st.
- Youth Deer Season: Typically ends on January 31st.
- Special Youth Deer Season: Typically ends on January 31st.
- Rifled Deer Season: Typically ends on January 31st.
Important Dates to Remember
Here are some key dates to keep in mind when planning your deer hunting trip in Ohio:
- September 15th: The start of the archery deer season, which marks the beginning of the deer hunting season in Ohio.
- November 20th: The start of the rifled deer season, which is the most popular deer hunting season in Ohio.
- January 31st: The end of all deer hunting seasons in Ohio.
Deer Hunting Seasons in Ohio
Ohio has two main deer hunting seasons: the archery deer season and the rifled deer season. Here’s a breakdown of each season:
- Archery Deer Season: This season typically runs from September 15th to January 31st and allows hunters to use archery equipment, such as bows and crossbows, to hunt deer.
- Rifled Deer Season: This season typically runs from November 20th to January 31st and allows hunters to use rifles, shotguns, and muzzleloaders to hunt deer.
Bag Limits and Regulations
To ensure a sustainable deer population, the ODNR Division of Wildlife sets bag limits and regulations for deer hunting in Ohio. Here are some key regulations to keep in mind:
- Bag Limit: The daily bag limit for deer is one deer, with a maximum of two deer per hunter per season.
- Antler Restrictions: Only deer with at least 4 points on one antler or 15 inches of antler length are considered legal harvest.
- Youth Hunting: Youth hunters (ages 17 and under) are allowed to hunt during the youth deer season and must be accompanied by an adult.
Deer Hunting Zones in Ohio
Ohio is divided into several deer hunting zones, each with its own specific regulations and restrictions. Here are the different deer hunting zones in Ohio:
| Zone | Description |
|---|---|
| Zone A | Northern Ohio, including counties such as Ashtabula, Lake, and Trumbull. |
| Zone B | Northeastern Ohio, including counties such as Columbiana, Mahoning, and Stark. |
| Zone C | Eastern Ohio, including counties such as Belmont, Harrison, and Jefferson. |
| Zone D | Southern Ohio, including counties such as Adams, Brown, and Scioto. |
| Zone E | Western Ohio, including counties such as Darke, Miami, and Shelby. |
Conclusion
Deer hunting season in Ohio typically ends on January 31st, with specific end dates for each type of deer and hunting season. It’s essential for hunters to familiarize themselves with the regulations, bag limits, and antler restrictions to ensure a sustainable and healthy deer population. By understanding the different deer hunting seasons, zones, and regulations, hunters can plan their trip and make the most of their deer hunting experience in Ohio.
