If you’re planning your hunting trips, knowing when deer hunting season ends in GA is crucial for your schedule. This guide gives you the exact dates and the key rules you need to follow.
Georgia offers a long and varied deer season, but the final day depends on where you hunt and what weapon you’re using. We’ll break down the calendar by zone, method, and special seasons so you can finish your season strong and legally.
When Does Deer Hunting Season End In GA
The general answer is that deer hunting season in Georgia typically ends in mid-January for most zones and methods. However, the specific closing date for your county is the most important thing to check. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division (WRD) sets these dates, and they can change slightly from year to year.
Official Georgia Deer Season End Dates (2024-2025 Example)
These dates are based on the most recent seasons. Always verify with the official regulations before you go, as they are the final authority.
- Archery Season: Ends statewide on January 12, 2025.
- Primitive Weapons Season: Ends statewide on January 12, 2025.
- Firearms Season: This is where it varies by zone. It generally ends between January 1 and January 12, 2025.
Breaking Down the End Dates by Zone
Georgia is divided into several deer hunting zones. The firearms season end date is the one that differs most.
Northern Zone
This zone covers counties north of the Fall Line. The firearms season here usually ends around January 1st. For example, in the 2024-2025 season, it ends on January 1, 2025. Archery and primitive weapons seasons continue until January 12.
Southern Zone
This zone includes counties south of the Fall Line. The firearms season runs longer, typically ending in mid-January. For the 2024-2025 season, it ends on January 12, 2025.
Urban Archery Counties
Some urban counties have extended archery seasons. These can sometimes run as late as January 31st. You must check the specific regulations for counties like Clayton, Cobb, and DeKalb to see if they have special extended dates.
Special Season End Dates
Beyond the general seasons, Georgia has special hunts with unique calendars.
- Either-Sex Days: These are specific days within the season when you can harvest antlerless deer. They have their own schedule, so the last either-sex day is your last chance for a doe in some areas.
- Youth Hunts: Special youth seasons typically occur before the main season opens and sometimes have separate weekend dates later in the year. Their end dates are separate.
- Managed Hunts: Draw hunts on state wildlife management areas (WMAs) have precise dates set by the WRD. These can end earlier or later than the general county season.
How to Find Your Exact County’s End Date
Don’t guess. Follow these steps to be 100% sure.
- Go to the Georgia WRD website.
- Find the current year’s “Hunting Regulations” guide.
- Locate the deer season date table.
- Find your county in the list and note its zone.
- Match the zone to the closing date for archery, primitive weapons, and firearms.
- Double-check for any county-specific notes or extended urban archery seasons.
Why Season End Dates Vary
The state manages deer populations carefully. Later seasons in the Southern Zone account for different breeding timelines (rut dates) and herd health goals. The earlier end in the Northern Zone helps manage pressure on the herd during winter. Understanding this helps you see why the rules are in place.
Planning Your Late-Season Hunts
The end of the season offers unique opportunities. Deer patterns change with the weather and post-rut behavior.
- Focus on Food: With cold weather, deer need calories. Target remaining acorns, winter greens like brassica plots, and agricultural fields.
- Adjust Your Timing: Deer may move later in the morning and earlier in the afternoon during the colder months.
- Hunt the Weather: A cold front or light snow can trigger exceptional movement right before the season closes.
Legal Requirements as the Season Closes
All standard rules apply until the final minute of the last day.
- Licenses and Permits: Your hunting license, big game license, and any WMA permits must be valid.
- Harvest Recording: You must record your harvest on a paper harvest record or through the official app before moving the deer.
- Reporting Your Harvest: All deer must be reported through Georgia’s Game Check system within 24 hours of harvest. This is mandatory, even on the last day.
What Happens If You Hunt After the Season Ends?
Hunting after the official closing date is illegal. It’s considered poaching and carries serious penalties, including:
- Substantial fines.
- Loss of hunting privileges in Georgia and other states through the Interstate Wildlife Violator Compact.
- Possible confiscation of equipment and firearms.
- Potential jail time for serious offenses.
It’s never worth the risk. Know the date and stop hunting at legal shooting time on that final day.
Preparing for the Off-Season
Once the season ends, your work isn’t over. The off-season is key to next year’s success.
- Scout: Look for shed antlers to pattern buck movement.
- Maintain Gear: Clean and store your firearms, bows, and clothing properly.
- Habitat Work: Plan and execute food plot planting or hinge cutting on your property.
- Review Your Notes: Analyze what you saw during the season to plan better for next year.
FAQs: Georgia Deer Season End Dates
What is the latest date you can hunt deer in Georgia?
For most hunters, the latest general season date is January 12 for archery and primitive weapons in the Southern Zone. Some urban archery counties may extend to January 31. Always check the regulations for your specific county.
Does deer season end on the same date statewide?
No, it does not. The firearms season end date is different for the Northern and Southern Zones. Archery and primitive weapons seasons are more consistent but still have exceptions for urban counties.
When does rifle season end in Georgia?
Rifle season end dates vary. In the Northern Zone, it typically ends around January 1. In the Southern Zone, it usually ends around January 12. You must confirm your county’s zone to know for sure.
Can I hunt with a bow after gun season ends?
Yes, in most cases. Archery season often continues for about one to two weeks after the firearms season closes in both zones. This provides a quiet, late-season opportunity.
Where can I find the official end dates?
The only official source is the current “Georgia Hunting Seasons and Regulations” guide published by the Wildlife Resources Division. Get it online at their website or from any license vendor.
Final Checklist Before the Season Ends
Use this list in the final weeks.
- [ ] Verified my county’s closing date for my preferred weapon.
- [ ] Checked for any special either-sex days remaining.
- [ ] Prepared my gear for cold-weather hunting conditions.
- [ ] Have a plan for reporting my harvest through Game Check.
- [ ] Know the legal shooting times for the final day.
Marking the end of deer season on your calendar ensures you make the most of every legal hunting day. By knowing the precise answer to “when does deer hunting season end in GA,” you can plan a safe, successful, and ethical conclusion to your year in the woods. Remember, regulations are their to protect the resource for future generations. Always get a copy of the official guide, it’s the best tool in your hunting pack. Good luck, and hunt safely.