Pennsylvania Hunting Seasons: A Guide
When Is Hunting Season in Pennsylvania?
When the leaves start to change and the air gets crisp, it’s time to start thinking about hunting season in Pennsylvania. With a variety of game to choose from, there’s something for everyone in the Keystone State. But when exactly does hunting season start and end? And what do you need to know to get started?
In this article, we’ll take a look at the hunting seasons for all the major game species in Pennsylvania. We’ll also provide tips on how to get started hunting, and we’ll answer some of the most common questions about hunting in the state. So whether you’re a seasoned hunter or you’re just getting started, read on for all the information you need to know about hunting season in Pennsylvania.
| Game | Season | Dates |
|---|---|---|
| Deer | Archery | September 15-December 11 |
| Deer | Muzzleloader | December 12-24 |
| Deer | Rifle | December 25-January 1 |
| Turkey | Spring | April 24-May 15 |
| Turkey | Fall | November 1-30 |
Pennsylvania is home to a variety of hunting opportunities, with seasons for big game, small game, waterfowl, upland game birds, furbearers, and other species. The specific hunting season dates vary by county, so it’s important to check the Pennsylvania Game Commission website for the latest information.
General Hunting Season Dates
The following is a general overview of the hunting season dates in Pennsylvania. Please note that these dates are subject to change, so be sure to check the Game Commission website for the latest information.
- Big game: The big game hunting season in Pennsylvania runs from September 1 to December 31. The most popular big game species in Pennsylvania are deer, bear, and elk.
- Small game: The small game hunting season in Pennsylvania runs from September 1 to March 31. The most popular small game species in Pennsylvania are rabbits, squirrels, and grouse.
- Waterfowl: The waterfowl hunting season in Pennsylvania runs from September 1 to January 31. The most popular waterfowl species in Pennsylvania are ducks, geese, and swans.
- Upland game birds: The upland game bird hunting season in Pennsylvania runs from September 1 to March 31. The most popular upland game bird species in Pennsylvania are pheasants, quail, and turkeys.
- Furbearers: The furbearer hunting season in Pennsylvania runs from November 1 to March 31. The most popular furbearer species in Pennsylvania are beavers, coyotes, and foxes.
- Other species: The hunting season for other species in Pennsylvania varies depending on the species. For more information, please check the Game Commission website.
Specific Hunting Season Dates by County
Each county in Pennsylvania has its own set of hunting season dates. These dates are determined by the Pennsylvania Game Commission based on a variety of factors, including the local wildlife population and the needs of hunters.
The following is a list of the hunting season dates for each county in Pennsylvania. Please note that these dates are subject to change, so be sure to check the Game Commission website for the latest information.
- Adams County: Big game: September 1 to December 31. Small game: September 1 to March 31. Waterfowl: September 1 to January 31. Upland game birds: September 1 to March 31. Furbearers: November 1 to March 31. Other species: Varies by species.
- Allegheny County: Big game: September 1 to December 31. Small game: September 1 to March 31. Waterfowl: September 1 to January 31. Upland game birds: September 1 to March 31. Furbearers: November 1 to March 31. Other species: Varies by species.
- Armstrong County: Big game: September 1 to December 31. Small game: September 1 to March 31. Waterfowl: September 1 to January 31. Upland game birds: September 1 to March 31. Furbearers: November 1 to March 31. Other species: Varies by species.
- Beaver County: Big game: September 1 to December 31. Small game: September 1 to March 31. Waterfowl: September 1 to January 31. Upland game birds: September 1 to March 31. Furbearers: November 1 to March 31. Other species: Varies by species.
- Berks County: Big game: September 1 to December 31. Small game: September 1 to March 31. Waterfowl: September 1 to January 31. Upland game birds: September 1 to March 31. Furbearers: November 1 to March 31. Other species: Varies by species.
- Blair County: Big game: September 1 to December 31. Small game: September 1 to March 31. Waterfowl: September 1 to January 31. Upland game birds: September 1 to March 31. Furbearers: November 1 to March 31. Other species: Varies by species.
- Bradford County: Big game: September 1 to December 31. Small game: September 1 to March 31. Waterfowl: September 1 to January 31. Upland game birds: September 1 to March 31. Furbearers: November 1 to March 31. Other species: Varies by species.
- Bucks County: Big game: September 1 to December 31. Small game: September 1 to March 31. Waterfowl:
When Is Hunting Season In Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania’s hunting seasons vary depending on the species of animal being hunted. The following is a general overview of hunting seasons in Pennsylvania:
- Deer: Deer hunting season in Pennsylvania runs from October 15 to December 1.
- Elk: Elk hunting season in Pennsylvania runs from September 1 to December 31.
- Bear: Bear hunting season in Pennsylvania runs from September 1 to November 30.
- Turkey: Turkey hunting season in Pennsylvania runs from April 1 to May 31.
- Small game: Small game hunting season in Pennsylvania runs from September 1 to March 31.
For more specific information on hunting seasons in Pennsylvania, please visit the Pennsylvania Game Commission website.
Hunting License Requirements
All hunters in Pennsylvania must have a valid hunting license. Licenses can be purchased online or at any number of licensed vendors. Hunters should check the Game Commission website for more information on hunting license requirements.
Hunting Safety Tips
Hunting is a safe activity when practiced responsibly. Hunters should follow all applicable hunting laws and regulations. Hunters should also be aware of the following safety tips:
- Wear bright clothing so that other hunters can see you.
- Be aware of your surroundings and the potential for other hunters in the area.
- Never shoot at a target that you cannot clearly identify.
- Treat all firearms as if they are loaded, even if they are not.
- Be sure to unload your firearm before transporting it or storing it.
Hunting is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and provide for your family. By following these tips, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable hunting experience.
When is hunting season in Pennsylvania?
General hunting season
- Archery season: September 15 – December 1
- Muzzleloader season: November 20 – December 1
- Firearm season: December 2 – January 10
Specific hunting seasons
- Deer hunting season: November 20 – December 10
- Turkey hunting season: April 1 – May 31
- Bear hunting season: November 15 – December 1
- Small game hunting season: November 15 – January 10
For more information, please visit the Pennsylvania Game Commission website.
the hunting seasons in Pennsylvania vary depending on the species of animal and the region of the state. However, all hunters must be licensed and follow the state’s hunting regulations. By understanding the different hunting seasons and regulations, you can enjoy a safe and successful hunting experience in Pennsylvania.