Field Guide / State Hunting Guide
The Guide to Kentucky Hunting Seasons 2025
Kentucky has become one of the premier states for hunting whitetail. So, if a good deer hunt is on your list this year, you’ll want to plan a trip to this state to track a trophy buck. No matter which Kentucky county you choose to hunt, they’ve all reported trophy-class deer.
However, before you can gather your gear, grab your rifle or bow, and get your hunting buddies together, make sure you know when the season starts for the game you’re after. You’ll also need to know about the bag limits and how to get a license.
In this guide, we’ve gathered the details you need to hunt Kentucky — no matter the game you’re after. Plus, our app is the best tool for marking the best spots to hunt the game on your list this season.
Updated February 20, 2025
Why Do Hunters Hunt in Kentucky?
We’ve already mentioned the potential to bring home a big buck when hunting in Kentucky, but that’s not the only reason hunters love this state. If you’re after other trophies — like a bear or elk — Kentucky can deliver.
If you prefer something more traditional, there’s plenty of turkey, dove, duck, and geese to hunt, too.
Where Should I Hunt?
Kentucky has a good balance of flatlands and mountain terrain. So, depending on what you hunt, you could encounter rivers, pastures, or mountain ridges.
To make sure you’re prepared for any land your game runs across, use HuntWise to find and mark the best hunting areas to tag out. Our satellite imagery and topographic map layers help you understand different terrains. With these insights, hunters can bring the right gear and get in shape for a successful day in the field.
When Can I Hunt?
Depending on the game you’re after, your wait for the next open-season dates could already be over!
We’ve researched and put together some season and bag limit information in this resource. However, be sure to do your homework and check with state agencies to confirm the latest information about season dates and bag limits before getting out into the field.
Note that season dates have been updated for the 2025-2026 season where available. As the KDFWR makes more updates, we'll keep this resource current.
Deer SeasonRestrictions and regulations for deer hunting apply per zone, so be sure to check with the Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife Resources (KDFWR) for the latest information.
| Turkey SeasonTurkey seasons are also defined by Zones and firearm vs. bow. Hunters can enjoy two opportunities to hunt turkeys: spring and fall. Spring Dates
Fall Dates
|
BearTo legally hunt bear in Kentucky, confirm the dates for various zones and methods (firearm, chase, or with dogs).
| ElkHunters must follow specific regulations for hunting elk.
|
Migratory Birds
| Waterfowl
|
Coyote
| Small Game
|
For additional information on these and other species, visit the Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife Resources website.
What Do I Need to Know About Kentucky Hunting Regulations and Licenses?
All hunters in Kentucky need a license. To determine the license you need by species or based on other factors like resident vs. nonresident, youth, ages 65 or older, or hunting with a disability, check the online Kentucky guide for hunting licenses.
For some species, like elk, you’ll also need a permit.
What Are the Bag Limits for Kentucky Hunting?
How many ducks, bears, coyotes, or deer can you bring home this season? To comply with Kentucky’s hunting regulations, follow the bag limits for everything you plan to hunt.
| Deer | No more than 1 deer with visible antlers | Dove | 15 per day (45 in possession) |
| Turkey | 1 male or bearded per day (2 for the spring season), 2 per season (fall, no more than one per day) | Rail | 25 per day single or combined (75 in possession) |
| Bear | 1 per person per year | Woodcock | 3 per day (9 in possession) |
| Elk | 1 per hunter per season | Snipe | 8 per day (24 in possession) |
| Dove | 15 per day (45 in possession) | Gallinule | 3 per day single or combined (9 in possession) |
| Canada Goose, Cackling, White-fronted, Brant | 5 per day combined (15 in possession) | Sandhill Crane | 1 or 2 per day (3 in possession) |
| Snow Goose | 20 per day (60 in possession) | Teal | 6 per day (3x daily in possession) |
| Duck | 6 per day (18 in possession) | Coot | 15 per day (45 in possession) |
| Coyote | No limit | Merganser | 5 per day (3x daily in possession) |
| Grouse | 4 per day (8 in possession) | Woodcock | 3 per day (9 in possession) |
| Squirrel | 6 per day (12 in possession) | Rabbit | 4 per day (8 in possession) |
| Quail | 8 per day (16 in possession) |
For more details on bag limits, visit the Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife Resources website.
What Else Do I Need Before I Can Hunt?
Hunters born after January 1, 1975, and age 12 or older need a hunter safety certification before purchasing a hunting license. However, the state also has a permit that allows someone to hunt without a safety certification for up to one year.
Along with your license and safety certification, you also need the right gear, including a deer call and hunter orange based on the state’s requirements. From clothing to trail cams, binoculars, and more, HuntWise users save hundreds on gear from our partners. Use this discount to grab everything you need to tag out in Kentucky!
Have a Better Hunt in Kentucky With HuntWise
HuntWise wants every hunter to tag out this season! So, we hope the information we provided today helps you do that in Kentucky.
You’ll also want to download the HuntWise app before you head out into the field. It will provide up-to-date information on hunting in Kentucky, including season dates, regulations, and license information.
Plus, with the map layers, landowner information, and features like WindCast and RutCast, you can strategically plan your hunt to gain an advantage over other hunters.
Download the app and start your free trial now! You’ll be ready to get out in the field on opening day.
Content and season dates reviewed and updated February 20, 2025.
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