The wait is almost over. Georgia's deer hunting firearms season opens Saturday, Oct. 19 and runs through January 2025, according to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources.

“We're expecting a great season,” said Charlie Killmaster, state deer biologist. “Hunter success is up, and the number of mature bucks is higher than ever.”

In the 2023-24 season, nearly 180,000 hunters harvested around 240,000 deer. Regulated hunting helps maintain a healthy deer population and provides a sustainable source of local meat.

Hunters for the Hungry expansion

To reduce agricultural damage and assist families in need, the Hunters for the Hungry Program® is expanding. To find a processor near you or become one, visit GWF.org/ghfth.

Public hunting

Georgia Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) offer nearly one million acres of hunting opportunities. Check current regulations for specific dates and WMA details at GeorgiaWildlife.com/hunting. Some WMAs may still be impacted by Hurricane Helene, so use caution when hunting.

Key Information

• Legal Firearms: Centerfire rifles .22 caliber or larger with expanding bullets are allowed. Archery and primitive weapons are also legal.
• Harvest Limits: Hunters may take up to 10 antlerless deer and 2 antlered deer (with specific antler requirements).
• Season Dates: Most hunters' season ends January 12, but some counties have extended seasons.
• Licenses: Hunters need a hunting license, big game license, and deer harvest record. Purchase them at GoOutdoorsGeorgia.com or by phone.
• Reporting: All harvested deer must be reported within 24 hours via the Outdoors GA app, GoOutdoorsGeorgia.com, or by calling 1-800-366-2661.
• Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD): CWD has not been found in Georgia, and hunters can help prevent its spread by not bringing in live deer or certain deer parts from other states. Learn more at GeorgiaWildlife.com/cwd.

For more information, including deer regulations, processors, and maps, visit GeorgiaWildlife.com/deer-info.