Kentucky Hunting Seasons, 2023-2024

Bag game large and small during Kentucky’s hunting seasons. From deer to bear, elk and small game, hunters will find variety in the state’s woods. Hunting licenses and permits are required for particular game. These can be purchased easily online, for both residents and nonresidents. Permits can also be purchased from a license agent or through the phone. License and permit rates vary based on season, residency, age and special designations.

Kentucky offers two methods – by telephone or through the Department of Fish and Wildlife’s website – for checking in harvested game. Elk, turkey, bear, bobcat and river otters must all be checked in, through any method, after bagging. Because time limits for check-in vary by animal, be sure to visit the Fish and Wildlife Resources website for additional information.

Kentucky Deer Seasons

ArcherySept. 2-Jan. 15
CrossbowSept. 16-Jan. 15
MuzzleloaderOct. 21-22
Dec. 9-17
Modern GunNov. 11-26
Youth-OnlyOct. 14-15
Youth-Free WeekendDec. 30-31

*Some season dates and regulations may vary by zone. Be sure to visit the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources website for more information.


Kentucky Elk Seasons

Archery/CrossbowSept. 9-22
Dec. 2-8
FirearmsBull: Sept. 30-Oct. 4 and Oct. 7-11
Cow: Nov. 25-29 and Dec. 30-Jan. 3

**Season dates vary by zone and by bull (antlered) or cow (antlerless) take. Youth-only quota hunts may occur during any season.

Kentucky Turkey Seasons

Fall ArcherySept. 2-Jan. 15
Fall FirearmsOct. 28-Nov. 3
Dec. 2-8
Fall CrossbowOct. 1-22
Nov. 11-Dec. 31

**Spring dates are proposed. For final confirmation of Kentucky spring turkey hunting season, visit the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources website.

Kentucky Bear Seasons

Archery/CrossbowOct. 28-Nov. 1**
Chase OnlyJune 1-Aug. 31
Sept. 9-30
FirearmsDec. 9-13**

**Bear hunting may be closed in some Kentucky hunting zones, and season dates may vary by zone. For more information about bear hunting in the Bluegrass State, visit the Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife website. Bear seasons are only open to Kentucky residents.

Kentucky Small Game Seasons

CrowSept. 1-Nov. 7
Jan. 4-Feb. 29
GroundhogOpen season
SquirrelAug. 19-Nov. 10
Nov. 13-Feb. 29
GrouseNov. 1-10
Nov. 13-Feb. 29
RabbitNov. 1-Feb. 10**
QuailNov. 13-Feb. 10**

**Season dates vary by zone

Bag limits, special seasons and hunting regulations for Kentucky hunting seasons do vary based on animal and seasons. For more information on obtaining licenses, permits and regulations, visit the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources website.