You can also find plenty of deer, dove, goose, and turkey to hunt in the Beaver State. Plus, bear, cougar, and antelope can round out your big game hunt list. If waterfowl is your game of choice, you can't miss the world-class waterfowl hunting in Oregon.
What do you need to know to plan your Oregon hunting seasons? We've pulled together the latest information about season dates, hunting licenses, bag limits, and more. We'll also help you find the best public or private land for a challenging and fun hunt.
When Can I Hunt in Oregon?
The Oregon hunting seasons are straightforward, so planning your year is simple. Big game hunting is available through either general season hunts or controlled hunts.
Note that the season information in this guide is the latest available from the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife (ODFW). We'll update this page with the latest season information as it becomes available.
We also recommend checking official resources for the latest hunting season dates, as information can change.
Oregon Hunting Season Dates 2026–2027 | |
|---|---|
Oregon Deer SeasonBuck Deer
Antlerless
For details about hunt units and corresponding season dates, consult the Oregon Big Game Hunting Regulations guide. | Oregon Elk SeasonAny Legal Weapon
Archery
General Antlerless Damage Units
Muzzleloader Controlled 200 Series: Dates vary from August 1 – December 31, 2026 Youth Only Controlled 200 Series: Dates vary from August 15, 2026 – March 31, 2027. |
AntelopeAll hunts are controlled hunts.
| Bighorn Sheep
|
Mountain GoatControlled, Any Legal Weapon: August 1 – 31, August 1 – October 31, September 1 – 30, September 1 – October 31, and October 1 – 31, 2026 (based on hunt unit) | CougarStatewide: January 1 – December 31, 2026 |
Black Bear
| CoyoteOpen year-round |
Turkey
| Western Gray Squirrel
|
Feral PigsOpen year round | Migratory Birds and Upland Game
|
FurbearersStatewide Furbearer Pursuit Seasons
Furbearer Harvest Seasons
Check the ODFW's Furbearer Regulations Guide for details about each species for harvesting and rules. Make sure you are familiar with live animal traps and how to use them properly to follow the state's regulations. | |
What are the Bag Limits for Oregon Hunting Seasons?
How many elk, deer, or turkeys can you bring home this year? To comply with the laws for the Oregon hunting seasons, make sure you know the bag limits for every animal you plan to hunt.
Check out this overview of the state's bag limits.
Oregon Hunting Season Bag Limits | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Deer | Bag limits vary based on the seasons and type of hunt | Pigeon | 2 per day (6 in possession) |
| Elk | Bag limits vary based on the seasons and type of hunt | Duck & Merganser | 7 per day (3x daily in possession) |
| Antelope | Bag limits vary based on the season dates and hunt unit. | Coot | 25 per day (75 in possession) |
| Bighorn Sheep | 1 ram, 1 ewe (hunts 543D1 and 543D2 only) | Snipe | 8 per day (24 in possession) |
| Mountain Goat | 1 goat | Crow | No limit |
| Cougar | 1 per tag | Brant | 2 per day (6 in possession) |
| Coyote | No limit | September Canada Goose | 5 per day (15 in possession) |
| Black Bear | 1 per tag | Regular Canada Goose |
|
| Squirrel | 3 per day, 6 in possession (North-Central region) 5 per day, 15 in possession (remainder of the state) | White-fronted and White Goose | 6 white-fronted and 20 white per day (18 white-fronted and 60 white in possession) Lake County only: 1 white-fronted per day (3 in possession) |
| Feral Pig | No limit | Grouse | 3 of each species per day (9 of each species in possession) |
| Turkey | 1 male or bearded per day (3 for the spring season) 1 or 2 either-sex (fall). 3 hens or beardless (9 in possession/3 permits, beardless fall season). | Partridge | 8 per day (24 in possession) |
| Dove | 15 per day (45 in possession) | Pheasant | 2 per day, 8 in possession |
| Quail | 10 per day (30 in possession). Eastern Oregon: no more than 2 mountain quail per day (6 in possession) | ||
What Do I Need to Know About Oregon Hunting Regulations?
All hunters under the age of 18 must pass a hunter education course before getting a hunting license. Then, you can purchase the license for the game you plan to hunt.
For controlled hunts, make sure you understand how to apply through the ODFW licensing system. You can also buy your license for open-season hunts through the same website. Note that you'll need the license before applying for a tag.
Why Do Hunters Hunt in Oregon?
The thrill of a big game hunt brings hunters to Oregon, but there's also plenty of small game to keep them busy throughout the year. A good-sized deer population makes it an excellent state for hunting deer.
And, of course, waterfowl hunting in Oregon is some of the best in the U.S.
Plus, Oregon offers some of the most hunter-friendly regulations in the country, with reasonable bag limits and seasons that make it easy to hunt in the state — whether you're a resident or come from out of state.
Where Should I Hunt in Oregon?
Oregon splits the state into seven hunting areas for game birds and big game hunts. Each area has varying terrain, including forested hills, mountain ranges, deserts, and deep valleys.
With HuntWise, you can scout the land and identify boundaries to find the best places (and permissions) for your hunt. Our map layers and 3-D maps help you visualize the terrain so you're prepared for any hunt during any season.
What Else Do I Need Before I Can Hunt?
Whether you're excited about Oregon elk season or you're planning for a big waterfowl hunt, you need the right gear!
Successful hunts require the right clothing (depending on the season), a sharp hunting knife, good binoculars, and a good rifle for firearm seasons.
Plan Successful Oregon Hunting Seasons with HuntWise
We hope this guide helps you plan your hunts in Oregon this year — but don't forget to check official resources for the latest details. Information can change before finalizing your plans.
What else do you need for success? The HuntWise hunting app! Our maps, layers, and forecasting features give you an advantage over other hunters while increasing your chances of a successful day in the field.
Plus, Elite subscribers gain access to more tools in the app, including up to 15 days of weather and animal activity forecasting.
Content most recently reviewed and updated for the latest season dates and details October 13, 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
We have answers to your questions about the Oregon hunting seasons!
Q: What are the dates for deer season in Oregon?
A: Oregon deer seasons vary by zone and weapon type (archery, rifle, muzzleloader), but generally run from late August (archery) through November (rifle). Exact dates change each year. Check the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife (ODFW) regulations for your unit.
Q: What animals can you hunt year-round in Oregon?
A: Certain species are open year-round, including coyotes, jackrabbits, and some other unprotected or predatory animals. Regulations can vary, so always confirm with ODFW.
Q: Can I shoot deer out of season on my property?
A: No, you cannot shoot a deer out of season on your property in Oregon without special permission. Deer are protected game animals, and killing one outside of legal season typically requires a damage permit from ODFW.
Q: What is the best animal to hunt in Oregon?
A: In Oregon, the best animal to hunt depends on your goals. Deer and elk are the most popular big game, while turkey, waterfowl, and upland birds are great for beginners. “Best” varies by experience, location, and season.
Q: Can I shoot a coyote on my property in Oregon?
A: Yes, you can shoot a coyote on your property in Oregon in most cases. Coyotes are classified as predators and can generally be taken year-round on private property, but you must still follow local firearm laws and safety regulations.
