Ohio is a haven for hunters, offering a variety of game and hunting seasons throughout the year. From deer and turkey to small game like squirrels and crows, Ohio’s hunting seasons present exciting opportunities for both novice and experienced hunters.
In this article, we’ll cover the specifics of Ohio’s hunting seasons, including key dates, rules, and licensing information. Let’s get started.
Deer Hunting in Ohio
The Ohio deer season provides hunters with several options to pursue their quarry. Archery, youth hunt, firearms, and muzzleloader seasons are available. The dates for the 2022-2023 seasons are as follows:
| Season | Dates |
| Archery | Sept. 24 – Feb. 5 |
| Youth Hunt | Nov. 19 – 20 |
| Firearms | Nov. 28 – Dec. 4 and Dec. 17 – 18 |
| Muzzleloader | Jan. 7 – 10 |
Deer hunting rules in Ohio are clear and comprehensive. Hunting hours are from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset. Hunters must complete the game-check process after bagging a deer.
Only one antlered deer may be killed during the season, and an antlered deer is defined as one having at least one antler three inches or longer. While an Ohio hunting license is necessary, you also need a deer hunting permit.
There are two types of permits available: the either-sex permit and the deer management permit. Furthermore, no more than one deer without antlers may be taken from public hunting areas per license year.
Equipment for Deer Hunting
A variety of equipment is permissible for deer hunting in Ohio. This includes a longbow or bow, crossbow, shotgun, straight-walled cartridge rifles, muzzleloading rifles, muzzleloading shotguns, and handguns with certain specifications.
For a comprehensive list of equipment requirements, visit the Ohio Department of Natural Resources website.
Deer Hunting Bag Limits
Different counties in Ohio have varying bag limits for deer hunting. Some counties allow for two deer, others three, while a few allow for up to four deer.
For more specific information on bag limits for each county, it is advised to check the Ohio Department of Natural Resources website.
Turkey Hunting in Ohio
Turkey hunting in Ohio is split into fall and spring seasons. The dates for the 2022-2023 season are:
Wild Turkey Hunting Season
The wild turkey hunting season is divided into a fall general season and a spring youth and general season.
The dates for the 2022-2023 seasons are as follows:
| Season | Dates |
| Spring 2023 Youth Hunt | Apr. 15 – 16 |
| Spring 2023 General Season (Northeast Zone) | Apr. 29 – May 28 |
| Spring 2023 General Season (South Zone) | Apr. 21 – May 21 |
| Fall 2022 General Season | Oct. 8 – Nov. 13 |
Small Game Hunting in Ohio
The small game hunting season in Ohio includes a variety of animals. The dates for the 2022-2023 seasons are as follows:
| Game | Dates |
| Crow | June 3 – March 5 |
| Squirrel | Sept. 1 – Jan. 31 |
| Ruffed Grouse (Public Land) | Oct. 8 – Nov. 27 |
| Ruffed Grouse (Private Land) | Oct. 8 – Jan. 1 |
| Cottontail Rabbit | Nov. 4 – Feb. 28 |
| Ring-necked Pheasant | Nov. 4 – Jan. 8 |
| Chukar | Nov. 5 – Jan. 9 |
| Bobwhite Quail | Nov. 4 – Nov. 27 |
| Raccoon, Skunk, Opossum, Weasel, Fox | Nov. 10 – Jan. 31 |
Hunting License in Ohio
To hunt in Ohio, you need a license. There are several types of licenses available, including for youth, resident adults, non-resident adults, apprentices, and seniors. Hunting licenses can be purchased from authorized agents.
Regarding hunting licenses, different types of licenses are available:
- Youth: For anyone 17 years old and younger.
- Resident adult: For Ohio residents age 18-65.
- Nonresident adult: For all nonresidents 18 years old and older.
- Apprentice: For residents and nonresidents accompanied by a licensed hunter.
- Resident senior: For Ohio residents age 66 and older born on or after Jan. 1, 1939.
- Resident free senior: For Ohio residents born on or before Dec. 31, 1938.
Ohio, with its diverse landscapes and habitats, offers a wealth of hunting opportunities. The state’s hunting seasons cater to a variety of game, including deer, turkey, and small game like squirrels and rabbits.
This blog post will give you an overview of the hunting seasons in Ohio for 2022-2023, the rules to follow, the equipment you can use, and the types and costs of hunting licenses.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Ohio offers a wealth of hunting opportunities throughout the year, catering to enthusiasts of all ages and experience levels.
From deer to wild turkey and a variety of small game, the state’s diverse wildlife and varied hunting seasons ensure that hunters can find something to suit their interests. However, it’s crucial to remember that hunting is not only a pastime but also a responsibility.
To ensure the sustainability of these resources, hunters must adhere to the specific seasons, rules, and bag limits set by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. Hunting licenses and permits, which can be obtained online or from authorized agents, are a crucial part of this system.
As we venture into the woods, fields, and wetlands of Ohio, let’s remember to hunt responsibly, respecting both the game we pursue and the fellow hunters we share these resources with.