Pennsylvania Hunting Seasons & Licensing: What You Need To Know (2024)

Do you enjoy hunting? If so, Pennsylvania is the place for you! The Keystone State offers a wide variety of hunting opportunities, from big game to small game.

In this blog post, we will provide an overview of Pennsylvania's hunting seasons and licensing requirements.

We will also discuss the different types of licenses available, as well as the fees associated with each license. So whether you are a first-time hunter or a seasoned veteran, read on to learn more about Pennsylvania's hunting seasons and licensing process!

Hunting In Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is a great place to hunt. There are many different kinds of animals that can be found in the state, including deer, bear, turkey, and more. The terrain varies from mountainous to rolling hills, so there is something for everyone. The climate is also diverse, with both cold winters and hot summers.

There are many different hunting regulations in Pennsylvania, so it is important to be familiar with them before heading out. For example, there are different seasons for different animals, and some areas may require a hunting permit.

Overall, hunting in Pennsylvania can be a great experience for those who love the outdoors. There is something for everyone, and the scenery is beautiful. With a little planning and research, anyone can have a successful and enjoyable hunting trip in Pennsylvania.

Pennsylvania Deer Seasons

Archery and Crossbow	Sept. 18-Jan. 17**
Regular Firearms	Nov. 27-Dec. 11 and Dec. 5-12
Special Firearms (Junior/Senior License, Youth, Disabled Hunters, Military)	Oct. 21-23
Flintlock Firearms	Dec. 27-Jan. 29**
Muzzleloader	Oct. 16-23

**Pennsylvania regulates its firearms hunting seasons by region. In addition, further hunting dates separate from the statewide hunting season are available in countless areas across the state. For more information on hunting within your region or in another area, visit the Pennsylvania Game Commission website.

Pennsylvania Elk Seasons

Archery	Sept. 11-25
General Season	Nov. 1-6
Late Season	Jan. 1-8

Pennsylvania Black Bear Seasons

Archery	Sept. 18-Nov. 26**
Special Firearms (Junior/Senior License, Youth, Disabled Hunters, Military)	Oct. 21-23
Muzzleloader	Oct. 16-23
General Season	Nov. 20-Dec. 4**

**Season dates vary by zone. For specific dates within your region, visit the Pennsylvania Game Commission website.

Pennsylvania Wild Turkey Seasons

Fall General Season	Oct. 30-Nov. 26**
Spring Season	Apr. 30-May 31
Spring Youth Season	Apr. 23, 2022

**Start and end dates vary by region. For specific dates within your region, visit the Pennsylvania Game Commission website. Special seasons are reserved for youth hunts, senior hunters 65 and older, persons with disabilities and active military personnel.

Pennsylvania Small Seasons

Squirrel	Sept. 11-Nov. 26, Dec. 13-24, Dec. 27-Feb. 28
Rabbit	Oct. 2-16, Oct. 16-Nov. 26, Dec. 13-24, Dec. 27-Feb. 28
Pheasant	Oct. 9-16, Oct. 24-Nov. 26, Dec. 13-24, Dec. 27-Feb. 28
Bobwhite Quail	Oct. 23-Nov. 26, Dec. 13-24, Dec. 27-Feb. 28
Grouse	Oct. 16-Nov. 26 and Dec. 13-24
Woodchucks (Groundhogs)	Open Season, excluding Sundays and the regular firearms deer season

How To Get A Hunting License In Pennsylvania?

Depending on your age, you may be required to have the Hunter Education Certificate in order to legally buy a license or permit to hunt.

Complete the Pennsylvania hunter education certification requirements.
Choose the correct license type.
Buy the license through the Pennsylvania Game Commission website or a Pennsylvania–approved agent.

Pennsylvania License Expiration

Hunting licenses are good from July 1 to June 30 of the next year.

Where to Buy a Pennsylvania Hunting License

Visit the Pennsylvania Game Commission website.
Visit a Pennsylvania Game Commission office, a county treasurer office, or an approved license agent.

Bag limits, special seasons and hunting regulations for Pennsylvania hunting seasons do vary based on animal and seasons. Baiting is not allowed in the state, and firearms used to hunt are regulated by game type. For more information on obtaining licenses, permits and regulations, visit the Pennsylvania Game Commission website for precise information.