When Does Rifle Season Start in GA?
Georgia offers exciting hunting opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts, and rifle hunting is one of the most popular methods. If you’re planning to go hunting in Georgia, it’s essential to know when the rifle season starts. In this article, we’ll provide you with the detailed information you need to get ready for your hunting adventure.
Rifle Seasons in Georgia
Georgia is home to a wide variety of game species, and the state has different seasons for different species. Here’s a breakdown of the major rifle seasons in Georgia:
- Deer Rifle Season: The archery season typically starts in early September and runs for several weeks, followed by the firearms season, which usually begins in mid-October and ends in early November.
- Turkey Rifle Season: Turkey season usually starts in mid-March and runs for a few weeks.
- Small Game Rifle Season: Small game species such as rabbits, squirrels, and raccoons have their own rifle season, which typically starts in early November and runs through the end of January.
- Exotic/Renewable Wildlife Seasons: Exotic species such as feral hogs and coyotes have special hunting seasons, which may overlap with other seasons or occur at different times throughout the year.
2019-2020 Deer Rifle Season Dates
If you’re planning to go deer hunting in Georgia, here are the dates to mark on your calendar for the 2019-2020 season:
- Youth Deer Days: October 12-13, 2019 (for hunters 15 years old and younger)
- Muzzleloader Deer Season: October 16-20, 2019
- Primitive Firearms Deer Season: October 21-23, 2019 (using muzzleloaders and rifles with iron sights or cap-and-ball firearms)
- Regular Firearms Deer Season: October 25-27, 2019, and November 13-15, 2020
Licenses and Permits
Before you can start rifle hunting in Georgia, you’ll need to obtain the necessary licenses and permits. Here’s what you need to know:
- Resident License: A valid Georgia hunting license is required for all residents to hunt in the state. You can purchase a 1-year or 3-year license.
- Non-Resident License: Non-residents must obtain a non-resident hunting license, which is valid for 1 year.
- Deer Stamp: A deer stamp is required for all hunters to hunt deer in Georgia.
- Turkey Permit: A turkey permit is required for all hunters to hunt turkeys in Georgia.
Hunting Rules and Regulations
Before heading out on your hunting adventure, make sure you familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations in Georgia:
- Hunting Hours: Hunting hours are 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset.
- Bag Limit: The bag limit for deer is 1 per season, and for turkey, it’s 2 per season.
- CWD Check Stations: Make sure to check the CWD (Chronic Wasting Disease) rules and regulations, as check stations may be in operation during certain times of the season.
Important Dates for Upcoming Seasons
Keep in mind the following dates for upcoming seasons:
| Species | Season Dates | Important Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Deer | Mid-October to Mid-November | Youth days in October, muzzleloader season in October, regular firearms season in October-November |
| Turkey | Mid-March to Early April | Spring gobble season, youth hunter opportunity |
| Small Game | Early November to End of January | Includes rabbit, squirrel, raccoon, and other species |
Conclusion
In conclusion, knowing the dates of rifle season is crucial for a successful hunting adventure in Georgia. Make sure to check the dates carefully, obtain the necessary licenses and permits, and familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations. Happy hunting in the Peach State!
