When Is Ohio Deer Season? Dates and Tips for 2024-25 Hunting

The Ohio deer season for 2024-25 starts with archery on September 28, 2024, and ends on February 2, 2025. 

If you’re wondering about the specifics of deer hunting in Ohio, this article will cover all the dates, regulations, and essential tips.

Ohio Deer Hunting Season Overview

Ohio’s deer hunting seasons are meticulously planned to cater to various hunting methods and ensure sustainable wildlife management. 

From archery to firearm and muzzleloader seasons, each has its unique charm and regulations. 

Knowing the schedule and following the rules helps ensure a successful and lawful hunting experience.

Hunters must purchase the right licenses and permits to hunt deer legally. 

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife updates regulations annually, and staying informed is essential.

Additionally, following regulations for hunting migratory game birds is crucial to ensure sustainable hunting practices. 

Here are the specific dates and regulations for Ohio’s 2024-25 hunting season.

Archery Season Dates

Archery season in Ohio is a cherished tradition, offering hunters a longer period to enjoy the sport. 

The 2024-25 archery season runs from September 28, 2024, to February 2, 2025. 

Archery hunting in Ohio includes the use of compound bows and recurve bows, providing flexibility in equipment choice. 

Regardless of the type of bow used, hunters must adhere to the same season dates and regulations, ensuring a fair and controlled hunting environment.

Gun Season Dates

The gun season for deer hunting in Ohio is a highlight for many, offering a short but intense period to hunt. 

The gun-hunting deer season is scheduled from December 2-8, 2024. 

Maintaining a short seven-day period is crucial for managing the deer population sustainably while providing ample hunting opportunities.

Additionally, there is an extra gun hunting weekend on December 21-22, 2024. 

This supplementary weekend allows hunters another chance to participate in the hunt, catering to those who may have missed the first week or simply want more time in the field.

Hunters may harvest only one antlered deer during the entire season, regardless of the hunting method. 

Restricting the number of deer you can take helps maintain a balanced deer population and promotes fair hunting practices across the state.

Muzzleloader Season Dates

The muzzleloader season in Ohio is a unique opportunity for hunters who enjoy using traditional firearms. 

The muzzleloader season runs from January 4-7, 2025. 

This brief period is highly anticipated by enthusiasts who prefer the challenge of using muzzleloading rifles and shotguns.

Specific regulations apply to the muzzleloader season, including the requirement that muzzleloaders be .38 caliber or larger. 

Hunters can use scopes and open sights, and sabots and pellets are permitted. 

Chronic Wasting Disease Surveillance Areas

Some areas of Ohio are subject to monitoring for Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD), a fatal neurological condition affecting the deer population.

It’s essential to check the ODNR website for up-to-date info if you’re planning on hunting in Hardin, Marion, and Wyandot counties and other areas subject to CWD Surveillance, like Auglaize and Jackson townships in Allen County.

Depending on the date, any deer you harvest may be subject to inspection and sampling.

CWD surveillance is designed to monitor and control the spread of this fatal disease among the deer population. 

Hunters in these areas face special regulations, including mandatory CWD testing for all white-tailed deer harvested during specific dates in October and December. 

Testing tracks and manages the disease, ensuring the deer population’s health.

Removing a complete deer carcass from the surveillance area is illegal unless it meets specific regulations. 

Using bait to attract deer is also prohibited. 

Such measures are in place to prevent the spread of CWD to the wider wildlife population and ensure that hunting practices remain sustainable and ethical.

Bag Limits and Permits

Bag limits and permits are essential aspects of deer hunting in Ohio. 

A bag limit restricts the number of animals you can harvest during a given period or the total number of deer you can store or take.

Bag limits in Ohio vary by county. Counties are designated as two-deer, three-deer, or 4 deer, and various combinations of either-sex deer management permits can be used.

Bag limits help ensure effective and sustainable deer population management.

Deer management permits allow hunters to manage the deer population in specific areas. 

These permits are valid through December 22, 2024, and are particularly valuable in counties with higher deer densities. 

Hunters must purchase a valid hunting license to obtain these permits.

In certain counties, the bag limit for deer has increased from two to three to manage herd growth. 

Hunters must be aware of specific regulations in their hunting areas to comply with legal requirements.

Legal Hunting Devices

Ohio has specific regulations regarding legal hunting devices during deer hunting seasons. 

Hunters are allowed to use straight-walled cartridge rifles, which provide accuracy and power for effective hunting. 

Recurve bows, which cater to traditional archery enthusiasts, are also classified as legal hunting devices.

Muzzleloading shotguns are permitted during deer hunting seasons, offering hunters a chance to use this classic firearm. 

Hunters should familiarize themselves with device regulations and select their equipment accordingly. 

Using only legal hunting devices ensures everyone a safe and fair hunting experience.

Hunting Hours

Hunting hours in Ohio are strictly regulated to ensure safety and effective wildlife management. 

Legal hunting hours begin 30 minutes before sunrise and end 30 minutes after sunset to maintain safety while also making the most of each day.

Sunrise and sunset limitations apply to all deer hunting seasons in Ohio.

Youth Hunting Opportunities

Ohio offers special hunting opportunities for youth hunters, encouraging the next generation to participate in this time-honored tradition. 

The youth gun hunting season for deer is scheduled for November 16-17, 2024. 

This dedicated weekend allows apprentice hunters to experience the thrill of the hunt in a supportive environment.

Youth hunters have specific bag limits, usually similar to adult hunters, but with some unique stipulations. 

Controlled Hunts

Controlled hunts in Ohio provide additional opportunities for hunters to participate in managed hunts on public land. 

Applications for controlled hunts for various species of game are open through July. T

Controlled hunts help manage wildlife populations and offer exclusive hunting experiences.

Specific areas, like the Lake Erie marsh zone, have unique opportunities and regulations for hunting waterfowl.

Each controlled hunt application requires a $3 nonrefundable fee and an additional $5.50 service charge for phone applications. 

Participants must hold a valid Ohio hunting license and meet specific age requirements.

Successful applicants for controlled hunts are selected randomly and notified with additional information by early August. 

Hunting Licenses and Permits

Hunting licenses and permits are essential for all hunters in Ohio, ensuring that hunting activities are regulated and sustainable. 

The ODNR Division of Wildlife is responsible for issuing licenses and permits covering a wide range of hunting activities.

Whether you plan to hunt deer, wild turkey, small game, or migratory birds, you must obtain the appropriate licenses and permits. 

The right documents not only grant you the legal right to hunt but also contribute to wildlife conservation efforts by funding various programs and initiatives.

Having the correct permits is crucial for a lawful and enjoyable hunting experience.

 Stay informed about the latest regulations and ensure you have all the necessary documentation before heading out into the field.

Hunting Safety and Regulations

Hunting safety regulations are essential for protecting both humans and wildlife in Ohio, now and for years to come. 

Before embarking on your hunting trip, familiarize yourself with the safety guidelines provided by the Division of Wildlife. 

Rules include wearing hunter orange during gun seasons, handling firearms responsibly, and being aware of your surroundings at all times. 

Additionally, always inform someone of your hunting plans and expected return time.

Regulations also cover specific hunting practices, such as which hunting devices are legal, bag limits, and hunting hours. 

Adhering to regulations not only ensures your safety and that of other hunters but also promotes ethical hunting practices and helps maintain a balanced ecosystem.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

Ohio’s 2024-25 deer hunting seasons offer a variety of opportunities for hunters of all ages and skill levels. 

From archery to gun and muzzleloader seasons, each period is designed to provide a fulfilling hunting experience while ensuring sustainable deer population management. 

Understanding the regulations, bag limits, and legal hunting devices is crucial for a successful and ethical hunt.

If you’re going on an extended hunting trip, consider taking portable power to go.

EcoFlow’s River series portable power stations are perfect for keeping personal electronic devices and camping appliances up and running while you hunt.

As you prepare for the upcoming season, stay informed about the latest regulations and make sure you have all the necessary permits and licenses. 

Happy hunting, and may your season be safe and rewarding!

Please note: The above article is for informational purposes only. It is based on public resources available at the time of writing, but seasons, hunting regulations, and permits are subject to change. It’s essential to confirm proper compliance with the relevant authorities prior to hunting. EcoFlow assumes no responsibility for incorrect, incomplete, or out-of-date information.