Pretty soon, the heat of summer will be long gone and the leaves will begin changing color. That can mean only one thing – it's almost deer season in Ohio. This is one of our favorite times of year and we couldn't be more excited to get out of the house and into the woods. We put together this Frequently Asked Questions guide so that you are on top of all the latest rules, regulations, and information about deer hunting in Ohio.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What are the Beginning and Ending dates for deer season in Ohio for the 2021-22 hunting season?
A: Deer season officially begins with bow hunting on September 25, 2021. Ohio has different start and stop dates for the categories. Bow hunting is the longest season, running until February 6, 2022.
Q: What are the dates for youth gun hunting?
A: Youth gun hunting will open November 20 and will end on November 21, providing youth hunters one day ahead of adults.
Q: what are the dates for adult gun hunting in Ohio this year?
A: Adult gun hunting is split into two separate date groups this year. The first day of the first season will be November 29 and will run until December 5, 2021. The second season opens December 18, 2021 and will conclude on December 19, offering hunters one last opportunity to fill their tags before the season ends.
Q: What are the dates for muzzle load hunting?
A: Muzzle loading is a short season that begins on January 8,2022 and ends on January 11.
Q: How many deer can I harvest in Ohio?
A: Different counties in Ohio regulate the number of permits a person may fill each season. The Department of Natural Resources provides a map showing the allowable deer per individual per county. The numbers range from one to four.
Q: How many antlered deer can be taken?
A: Only one antlered deer may be harvested by any individual hunting in Ohio.
Q: Do I need a hunting license and a permit to hunt on private land in Ohio?
A: Ohio requires all hunters to have a license and a permit when hunting on any property in Ohio. Ohio allows landowners and their families to hunt without license or permit on their own land.
Q: What permits are available in 2021 and how much do they cost?
A: There are two types of deer permits available. The either-sex deer permit allows hunters to take one antlered deer anywhere in the state. The costs are: $12 (senior), $16 (youth), $31.20 (resident adult), or $76.96 (non-resident adult).
Hunters may also purchase a Deer Management Permit without purchasing an either-sex permit. This permit allows hunters to take antler-less deer on private land only. The cost for the permit is $15 for resident and non-resident adults and youth.
Q: Does Ohio offer free hunting license or permit options?
A: In certain circumstances, Ohio residents can apply for a free license or permit to hunt in Ohio. Options are available for seniors, veterans, and former POWs can apply for a free hunting license or permit through the Ohio Natural Resources website.
Q: What do I need to do once I have harvested a deer in Ohio?
A: All filled tags must be reported to the state. Hunters can report their tag in person at Ohio game offices or online using OhioGameCheck.com.
So Are You Ready For Deer Season?
Hunting deer in Ohio is spectacular, and whether you are a resident or are looking to travel for new opportunities, the key to having a good time and a successful hunt is understanding the rules and regulations of Ohio. There is tons of information available through the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. You can also get more information on deer hunting in Ohio from our blog.
