The Guide to Georgia Hunting Seasons 2024

So, whether you hunt turkey, deer, fox, dove, bear, or even opossum in Georgia, you need to know when the seasons start, where you can hunt legally, and how to get your license to tag out this year. 

We’re here to help! HuntWise has the information you need to hunt year-round. Keep reading for this year’s guide to Georgia hunting. Plus, with our app, you have the best tool to mark the best spots to hunt the game you’re after. 

Why Do Hunters Hunt in Georgia?

Hunters come to Georgia for many reasons, not the least of which is the state’s generous whitetail bag limits. It’s also an excellent state for hunting turkey, hogs, and quail. 

Georgia also offers opportunities to hunt bear and alligator if you’re looking for something bigger or different than “just” some deer.

Where Should I Hunt?

From mountains to coastal plains, Georgia offers five different geographic reasons and plenty of terrain variations to challenge even the most skilled hunter. You’ll find plenty of game throughout the valleys, hills, and forests. 

No matter where you scout and hunt, HuntWise can help you target (and mark) the best hunting areas. With our topographic map layers, you can check out the terrain ahead of time to plan the gear you need for a successful day in the field.  

When Can I Hunt?

We’re sure you’re anxious to get out and hunt, but make sure you check season dates and regulations – and get your license – before heading out. 

We’ve compiled some current information below, but it’s always wise to check state agencies to confirm season dates and bag limits as you plan your hunt! 

Deer Season

Georgia deer season 2024 dates are designated by equipment type (bow or firearm) and by either-sex or antlered buck-only dates. 

• Archery (Either-Sex Statewide):  September 14 – January 31
• Primitive Weapons & Youth Only: October 12 – 18
• Firearms (Bick Only Statewide): October 19 – January 12
• Extended Firearms: October 19 – January 15

Turkey Season

Statewide: 

• Private Land: March 19 – May 15
• Public Land: April 5 – May 15

Special Opportunity Youth/Mobility Impaired: March 22 – 23

Bear Season

Northern Zone: 

• Archery: September 14 – October 11
• Primitive Weapons: October 12 – 18
• Firearms: October 19 – January 12

Central Zone: 

• Firearms: December 14

Southern Zone: 

• Firearms: September 19 – 21 & 26 – 28, October 3 – 5 & 10 – 12

Alligator

Zone & Quota Limited: August 16 (sunset) – October 7 (sunrise)

Dove

Statewide:  September 7 – October 13, November 23 – December 1, December 19 – January 31

Fox and Bobcat

Statewide:  December 1 – February 28

Grouse

Statewide:  October 15 – February 28

Opossum & Raccoon

• Private Land: No closed season
• Public Land: August 15 – February 28

Feral Hog

No closed season and no bag limit. 

Waterfowl and Migratory Birds

Georgia typically offers a nine-day waterfowl season around Thanksgiving, usually opening the Saturday before Thanksgiving and ending the Sunday after Thanksgiving. This leaves 51 additional hunting days for these bird species throughout the fall. 

For current dates and details, visit the Georgia Department of Natural Resources page for Migratory Birds Information & Resources. You can also find more details about specific species and season dates through eRegulations. 

What Do I Need to Know About Hunting Licenses?

Georgia offers several types of hunting licenses, ranging from resident and non-resident hunting or combo licenses to licenses specific to youth, hunters with disabilities, alligator harvest, big game, and others. Hunters can purchase licenses online or from an official agent. 

What Are the Bag Limits?

How many turkeys, deer, or grouse can you bring home this season? To comply with Georgia hunting regulations, you must know the bag limits for everything you plan to hunt. 

For more details on bag limits, visit the Georgia Wildlife website.  

What Else Do I Need Before I Can Hunt?

All hunters born on or after January 1, 1961, need a hunter safety certification before purchasing a hunting license. However, even if you don’t fall into that age category, it can be a smart thing to do to help you stay safe when hunting in Georgia! 

Depending on the area and game you hunt, you’ll also want to pack the right gear. From decoys to optics, clothing, and more, HuntWise users save 10-50% on gear from our app partners. Use this discount to make sure you have everything you need in the field to tag out. 

HuntWise Helps You Tag Out for Georgia Hunting This Season

If you’re anything like the HuntWise team, you’re counting down the days until you can get out in the field. We hope this information helps you plan a successful Georgia game hunt this season! 

Before you plan your hunt, download the HuntWise app. It provides up-to-date information on hunting in Georgia, including open season dates, state regulations, and license information. 

You’ll also be able to plan your hunt more strategically to gain an advantage over other hunters. Using our WindCast feature, you can choose a day to hunt during the open season and plan your entry and exit based on wind direction – so animals don’t smell you coming. 

We hope you have a successful hunting season! Download the app and start your free trial now! You’ll be ready to hunt when the season opens.