The Guide to Pennsylvania Hunting Seasons 2026

Hunting in Pennsylvania is more than just going after deer, although whitetail is one of the most hunted animals in the state. Hunters can also go after other big game, like black bears, elk, and turkey. It’s also an excellent spot to fill your freezer with smaller game, like grouse, rabbit, and quail. 

To pack in as much hunting as possible this year, you must understand the hunting season dates based on the game you plan to hunt. 

The good news is that we’ve compiled a guide to Pennsylvania hunting seasons for 2025! Plus, with the HuntWise app, you can find and mark the best spots to hunt the game you’re after — before opening day. So, keep reading for the HuntWise guide to hunting in Pennsylvania.   

Updated August 4, 2026

When Can I Hunt in Pennsylvania?

It is crucial to pay close attention to the open season dates for the species you plan to hunt. You’ll also want to note the dates based on your preferred take method (gun, bow, or muzzleloader) and hunting zones, then follow them based on Pennsylvania’s hunting regulations. 

With that, here’s an overview of the PA seasons and bag limits for hunts! Note that Pennsylvania does not allow hunting on Sundays for most species, except where a specific Sunday is noted as an open hunting date.

Note, as the Pennsylvania Game Commission provides information for future season dates, we'll update this guide accordingly. 

For additional details about hunting seasons and regulations, visit the eRegulations page for Pennsylvania hunting information. 

What Are the Bag Limits for the Pennsylvania Hunting Seasons?

How many bears, deer, elk, or mergansers can you bring home this season? To comply with Pennsylvania’s hunting regulations, make sure you know the bag limits for everything you plan to hunt. 

What Do I Need to Know About Pennsylvania Hunting Regulations and Licenses?

Anyone who hunts in Pennsylvania needs a hunting license. You’ll purchase a license based on a general hunting license or the species you hunt (for big game). 

Additionally, deer licenses are specific to various hunting areas and whether you plan to hunt antlerless deer. They are sold based on a schedule of release dates. Hunters can buy licenses online or in person at a licensing issuing agency. 

Why Do Hunters Hunt in Pennsylvania?

Pennsylvanians have a rich history of hunting, especially when it comes to whitetail deer. However, the state also offers an excellent hunting experience if a bear hunt is on your list of trophy hunts.  

When hunting in the Keystone State, you’ll also have plenty of opportunities to harvest a turkey for your Thanksgiving meal. Plus, there’s an abundance of small game for hunters of all skill levels or practice outings in the field to stay sharp before the next whitetail season begins.  

Where Should I Hunt?

The Pennsylvania Game Commission manages more than 1.5 million acres of State Game lands. Additionally, building relationships with private landowners can give you access to additional (and potentially overlooked) hunting areas throughout the year. 

Within these areas, you’ll find forested areas contrasted by dry plains. Depending on what species you hunt, you’ll also work your way through small mountain ranges, rivers, lakes, prairies, and mesas. 

As you plan your hunt, HuntWise can help you target (and mark) the best private and public hunting lands to help you tag out. So, when it’s time for deer, bear, or turkey season, you already know where to go for a successful harvest. 

What Else Do I Need Before I Can Hunt?

All first-time hunters must pass a hunter safety course before buying a hunting license in Pennsylvania. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. However, with a Mentored Hunting Permit, first-time hunters can get out and hunt through mentorship before completing a hunter safety course. 

You’ll also want the right gear, depending on what you hunt and the time of year you get out in the field. 

As a HuntWise subscriber, you can save hundreds on essential gear like clothing, optics, odor control, spotting scopes, binoculars, and more. 

Tag Out During the PA Hunting Season with HuntWise

We hope this has been a helpful guide to start planning your hunting year! 

As you plan and gather your gear, make sure you’ve downloaded the HuntWise app as part of your gear essentials. With the ultimate tool, you’ll have the latest information on hunting in Pennsylvania, including state regulations and season and license information. 

You’ll also be able to plan your hunt more strategically — through e-scouting, map markers, and wind, weather, and animal movement forecasting — to gain an advantage over other hunters and increase your chances of tagging out. With multiple map layers (including State Game Areas, Managed Dove Fields, Lake Contours, and Management Units for Pennsylvania), you can thoroughly e-scout your hunt areas on a map before opening day. 

Download the app today and start your free trial! Enjoy free access for a week. 

Content and season dates reviewed and updated August 4, 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

We have answers to some of the top questions about the Pennsylvania hunting seasons!

Q: Can you hunt on Sundays in 2026 in PA?

A: Yes, Sunday hunting is now allowed during many seasons when the Pennsylvania Game Commission includes Sundays in the season dates.

Q: Did PA repeal the Sunday hunting ban?

A: Yes. In July 2025, Josh Shapiro signed a law repealing Pennsylvania’s long-standing Sunday hunting ban and giving the Pennsylvania Game Commission authority to allow Sunday hunting.

Q: When can you hunt alone in PA?

A: In Pennsylvania, you can hunt alone at age 16 or older (with the required license and hunter-education certification). Hunters under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

Q: Can PA game wardens come on private property?

A: Generally, yes, Pennsylvania wildlife conservation officers (game wardens) can enter and patrol private land to enforce game laws without a warrant under the “open fields” doctrine.

Q: Can you put salt out for deer in PA?

A: Usually, no, you can't put salt out for deer in PA if you are hunting there. Salt blocks, corn, mineral licks, or other attractants are considered bait, and hunting over bait (or within 30 days of bait being present) is illegal in most of Pennsylvania.