What Hunting Season Is It In Kentucky? (2023-2024)

ByBuffalo Rifles Blog

What Hunting Season is it in Kentucky?

The great state of Kentucky is home to a wide variety of hunting opportunities, from big game like deer and elk to small game like rabbits and squirrels. With so many different species to hunt and so many different ways to do it, it can be hard to know when the best time to go is. That’s where we come in.

In this article, we’ll take a look at the different hunting seasons in Kentucky, so you can plan your next trip accordingly. We’ll cover everything from when each season opens and closes to what licenses and permits you’ll need. So whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just getting started, read on for all the information you need to know about hunting in Kentucky.

Kentucky Hunting Seasons by Species

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Game Season Dates
Deer Antlerless August 15 – November 11
Deer Buck November 12 – January 1
Turkey Spring April 1 – May 31
Turkey Fall October 1 – November 30

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Kentucky is a state with a rich hunting tradition. The state offers a variety of hunting opportunities, from big game to small game to waterfowl. The state’s diverse landscape, including mountains, forests, and wetlands, provides habitat for a variety of wildlife.

This guide provides an overview of hunting seasons in Kentucky. It includes information on the dates and regulations for each season, as well as the species that can be hunted.

General Hunting Seasons in Kentucky

The hunting seasons in Kentucky vary depending on the species being hunted. The following is a general overview of the hunting seasons in Kentucky:

  • Big game hunting season: The big game hunting season in Kentucky runs from late September to early January. During this season, hunters can hunt for deer, elk, bear, and a variety of other animals.
  • Small game hunting season: The small game hunting season in Kentucky runs from early October to late January. During this season, hunters can hunt for rabbits, squirrels, quail, and a variety of other animals.
  • Waterfowl hunting season: The waterfowl hunting season in Kentucky runs from mid-October to mid-January. During this season, hunters can hunt for ducks, geese, and a variety of other waterfowl.
  • Upland game bird hunting season: The upland game bird hunting season in Kentucky runs from early October to late January. During this season, hunters can hunt for doves, quail, pheasants, and a variety of other upland game birds.

Specific Hunting Seasons in Kentucky

In addition to the general hunting seasons listed above, Kentucky also has a number of specific hunting seasons for specific species. These seasons are designed to protect certain species and to ensure that they are not over-hunted.

  • Deer hunting season: The deer hunting season in Kentucky is divided into two parts: the archery season and the firearms season. The archery season runs from early September to mid-November, and the firearms season runs from mid-November to early January.
  • Elk hunting season: The elk hunting season in Kentucky is very limited. Hunters must apply for a permit in advance, and the season is only open for a few days each year.
  • Bear hunting season: The bear hunting season in Kentucky runs from early October to early January. Hunters must have a bear tag in order to hunt bears.
  • Rabbit hunting season: The rabbit hunting season in Kentucky runs from early October to late January. Hunters can use a variety of methods to hunt rabbits, including shotguns, bows, and traps.
  • Squirrel hunting season: The squirrel hunting season in Kentucky runs from early October to late January. Hunters can use a variety of methods to hunt squirrels, including shotguns, bows, and traps.
  • Quail hunting season: The quail hunting season in Kentucky runs from early October to late January. Hunters can use a variety of methods to hunt quail, including shotguns, bows, and dogs.
  • Pheasant hunting season: The pheasant hunting season in Kentucky runs from early October to late January. Hunters can use a variety of methods to hunt pheasants, including shotguns, bows, and dogs.
  • Duck hunting season: The duck hunting season in Kentucky runs from mid-October to mid-January. Hunters can hunt ducks in a variety of different habitats, including rivers, lakes, and ponds.
  • Goose hunting season: The goose hunting season in Kentucky runs from mid-October to mid-January. Hunters can hunt geese in a variety of different habitats, including fields, marshes, and lakes.
  • Upland game bird hunting season: The upland game bird hunting season in Kentucky runs from early October to late January. Hunters can hunt a variety of upland game birds, including doves, quail, pheasants, and grouse.

Kentucky is a state with a rich hunting tradition. The state offers a variety of hunting opportunities, from big game to small game to waterfowl. The state’s diverse landscape, including mountains, forests, and wetlands, provides habitat for a variety of wildlife.

This guide provides an overview of hunting seasons in Kentucky. It includes information on the dates and regulations for each season, as well as the species that can be hunted.

For more information on hunting seasons in Kentucky, please visit the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources website.

3. Hunting Licenses and Permits in Kentucky

There are a variety of hunting licenses and permits required for hunting in Kentucky. The type of license or permit you need will depend on the species of animal you are hunting, the location where you are hunting, and your age.

Types of licenses and permits

The following is a list of the different types of hunting licenses and permits available in Kentucky:

  • Hunting license: A hunting license is required for anyone who is 16 years of age or older and wishes to hunt in Kentucky. Hunting licenses are valid for one year and can be purchased online, by mail, or at a license agent.
  • Deer permit: A deer permit is required for anyone who wishes to hunt deer in Kentucky. Deer permits are valid for one year and can be purchased online, by mail, or at a license agent.
  • Turkey permit: A turkey permit is required for anyone who wishes to hunt turkey in Kentucky. Turkey permits are valid for one year and can be purchased online, by mail, or at a license agent.
  • Duck stamp: A duck stamp is required for anyone who wishes to hunt ducks in Kentucky. Duck stamps are valid for one year and can be purchased online, by mail, or at a license agent.
  • Waterfowl hunting license: A waterfowl hunting license is required for anyone who wishes to hunt waterfowl in Kentucky. Waterfowl hunting licenses are valid for one year and can be purchased online, by mail, or at a license agent.
  • Elk permit: An elk permit is required for anyone who wishes to hunt elk in Kentucky. Elk permits are valid for one year and can be purchased online, by mail, or at a license agent.
  • Bear permit: A bear permit is required for anyone who wishes to hunt bear in Kentucky. Bear permits are valid for one year and can be purchased online, by mail, or at a license agent.

How to obtain a license or permit

Hunting licenses and permits can be obtained online, by mail, or at a license agent. To purchase a license or permit online, visit the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources website. To purchase a license or permit by mail, download and complete the appropriate application form and mail it along with a check or money order to the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources. To purchase a license or permit at a license agent, visit any sporting goods store or other business that sells hunting licenses and permits.

Fees for licenses and permits

The fees for hunting licenses and permits vary depending on the type of license or permit you are purchasing. The following is a list of the current fees for hunting licenses and permits in Kentucky:

  • Hunting license: $15
  • Deer permit: $10
  • Turkey permit: $5
  • Duck stamp: $25
  • Waterfowl hunting license: $25
  • Elk permit: $100
  • Bear permit: $50

4. Hunting Safety in Kentucky

Hunting is a safe activity when practiced responsibly. However, there are a number of things you can do to make your hunting experience even safer.

Tips for safe hunting practices

The following are some tips for safe hunting practices in Kentucky:

  • Be aware of your surroundings. Pay attention to the terrain, the weather, and the other hunters in the area.
  • Wear bright clothing. This will help other hunters see you and avoid accidents.
  • Use a safety harness when climbing trees. This will help prevent you from falling.
  • Use a spotting scope or binoculars to glass your hunting area before you enter it. This will help you identify potential hazards and avoid them.
  • Be careful when handling firearms. Always keep the muzzle of your firearm pointed in a safe direction.
  • Never drink alcohol or take drugs before or while hunting. This can impair your judgment and increase your risk of accidents.
  • Be aware of the hunting laws and regulations in Kentucky. Follow all applicable laws and regulations to avoid getting in trouble.

Laws and regulations regarding hunting safety

The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources has a number of laws and regulations in place to help promote hunting safety. These laws and regulations include the following:

  • Hunters must be at least 16 years of age to hunt in Kentucky.
  • Hunters must have a valid hunting license and permit for the species of animal they are hunting.
  • Hunters must wear blaze orange or other bright clothing when hunting in the field.
  • Hunters must use a safety harness when climbing trees.
  • Hunters must be careful when handling firearms.
  • Hunters must never

    What Hunting Season Is It In Kentucky?**

  • General Hunting Season
  • Deer: November 15 – January 31
  • Turkey: April 16 – May 31
  • Small Game: February 1 – March 31
  • Waterfowl: September 1 – January 31
  • Special Hunting Seasons
  • Bear: September 1 – November 30
  • Elk: November 15 – January 31
  • Moose: September 1 – January 31
  • Coyote: January 1 – March 31

How Do I Get a Hunting License in Kentucky?

To purchase a hunting license in Kentucky, you must be at least 16 years old and have a valid Kentucky driver’s license or identification card. You can purchase a license online, by mail, or at any license agent in the state.

What Are the Hunting Regulations in Kentucky?

The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources (KDFWR) sets the hunting regulations for the state. These regulations include bag limits, seasons, and methods of take. You can find the full list of regulations on the KDFWR website.

Where Can I Hunt in Kentucky?

There are over 1 million acres of public hunting land in Kentucky, managed by the KDFWR and other agencies. You can also hunt on private land with the permission of the landowner.

What Equipment Do I Need for Hunting in Kentucky?

The type of equipment you need for hunting in Kentucky will vary depending on the species you are hunting. However, some basic items that you will need include a rifle or shotgun, a hunting license, a deer stand, and a first aid kit.

How Can I Learn More About Hunting in Kentucky?

The KDFWR offers a variety of resources to help you learn more about hunting in Kentucky. These resources include online tutorials, publications, and workshops. You can also contact the KDFWR for more information.

Kentucky has a variety of hunting seasons for different types of game. The best time to go hunting depends on the species you are targeting. Be sure to check the Kentucky hunting regulations before you go, and have a safe and successful season!

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