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State Guide

Pennsylvania Hunting Guide

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

Wildlife Agency

Pennsylvania Game Commission

Official Site

Hunter safety course required for first-time buyers

Pennsylvania Hunting Seasons

Whitetail Deer

Res: $20.97 Non-res: $101.97
Season Type Opens Closes
Archery Sep 16 Nov 25
Muzzleloader Oct 14 Oct 21
Rifle Nov 27 Dec 9

Bag limits: daily: 1, season: 1 antlered, 1+ antlerless (with tags)

Antlerless deer require separate tags. CWD Disease Management Areas may have special rules. Sunday hunting now allowed on specific dates.

Turkey

Res: $20.97 Non-res: $101.97
Season Type Opens Closes
Shotgun May 1 May 31
Archery Nov 4 Nov 18

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

Spring season is bearded turkeys only. Fall season varies by Wildlife Management Unit.

Bear

Res: $16.97 Non-res: $36.97
Season Type Opens Closes
Archery Sep 16 Nov 25
Muzzleloader Oct 14 Oct 21
Rifle Nov 18 Nov 22

Bag limits: daily: 1, season: 1

Bear license required in addition to general hunting license. Extended seasons in some WMUs.

Pheasant

Res: $20.97 Non-res: $101.97
Season Type Opens Closes
Shotgun Oct 21 Nov 25

Bag limits: daily: 2, season: No limit

Pheasant stamp required. Wild bird populations supplemented by stocking program.

Planning Tools

Pennsylvania Hunting Guides

Whitetail buck in Pennsylvania hardwood forest during fall rut season

destinations

Pennsylvania Deer Hunting: Seasons, Public Land & Regulations

Pennsylvania Hunting FAQ

Do I need a hunting license in Pennsylvania?
Yes. All hunters in Pennsylvania must hold a valid hunting license from the Pennsylvania Game Commission. Non-residents typically pay higher fees. A hunter safety course is required for first-time license buyers.
What is the hunting license cost in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania license costs vary by species. Whitetail Deer: resident $20.97, non-resident $101.97. Turkey: resident $20.97, non-resident $101.97.
When is deer season in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania deer seasons: Archery: Sep 16 - Nov 25, Muzzleloader: Oct 14 - Oct 21, Rifle: Nov 27 - Dec 9.
Does Pennsylvania require a hunter safety course?
Yes, Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania?
The Pennsylvania Game Commission manages all hunting licenses, regulations, and wildlife management in Pennsylvania. Their website (https://www.pgc.pa.gov) has current season dates, license purchasing, and regulation booklets.