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State Guide

Ohio Hunting Guide

Complete Ohio hunting guide. Ohio hunting seasons, license costs, bag limits, and regulations for all major game species. Updated for the current season.

Wildlife Agency

Ohio Division of Wildlife

Official Site

Hunter safety course required for first-time buyers

Ohio Hunting Seasons

Whitetail Deer

Res: $24 Non-res: $139
Season Type Opens Closes
Archery Sep 30 Feb 4
Shotgun Nov 27 Dec 10
Muzzleloader Jan 6 Jan 9

Bag limits: daily: 1, season: 6 (1 antlered, 5 antlerless in most counties)

No rifle season — shotgun with slugs, muzzleloader, or archery only. Generous antlerless bag limits to manage population.

Turkey

Res: $24 Non-res: $139
Season Type Opens Closes
Shotgun Apr 17 May 21
Archery Apr 17 May 21

Bag limits: daily: 1, season: 2 (spring)

Spring season for bearded turkeys only. Youth season weekend prior to regular opening. Fall season available by permit.

Pheasant

Res: $24 Non-res: $139
Season Type Opens Closes
Shotgun Nov 4 Jan 14

Bag limits: daily: 2, season: No limit

Wild pheasant populations limited. State-managed areas stocked prior to season. Habitat primarily in northwest Ohio.

Planning Tools

Ohio Hunting Guides

Trophy whitetail buck in Ohio farmland and timber edge habitat during rut season

destinations

Ohio Deer Hunting Guide — Trophy Bucks, Seasons & Access

Ohio Hunting FAQ

Do I need a hunting license in Ohio?
Yes. All hunters in Ohio must hold a valid hunting license from the Ohio Division of Wildlife. Non-residents typically pay higher fees. A hunter safety course is required for first-time license buyers.
What is the hunting license cost in Ohio?
Ohio license costs vary by species. Whitetail Deer: resident $24, non-resident $139. Turkey: resident $24, non-resident $139.
When is deer season in Ohio?
Ohio deer seasons: Archery: Sep 30 - Feb 4, Shotgun: Nov 27 - Dec 10, Muzzleloader: Jan 6 - Jan 9.
Does Ohio require a hunter safety course?
Yes, Ohio requires hunter education certification for all first-time hunters. The course covers firearm safety, hunting laws, wildlife conservation, and ethical hunting practices.
Who manages hunting regulations in Ohio?
The Ohio Division of Wildlife manages all hunting licenses, regulations, and wildlife management in Ohio. Their website (https://ohiodnr.gov/wps/portal/gov/odnr/buy-and-apply/hunting-fishing-boating/hunting) has current season dates, license purchasing, and regulation booklets.