Deer hunters across Georgia are preparing to head into the woods as the state’s firearms deer hunting season officially opens Saturday, October 17, and continues into January 2027.
The Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division (WRD) says hunters can look forward to another season of opportunities across the state, including Northwest Georgia, where deer hunting remains a popular fall tradition.
“Firearms deer season is almost here,” said Charlie Killmaster, state deer biologist for the Wildlife Resources Division. “Georgia continues to produce outstanding bucks every year, a testament of how well hunters and landowners have managed deer.”
During the 2025-2026 firearms deer season, approximately 200,000 hunters harvested around 250,000 deer statewide. Wildlife officials say regulated hunting plays an important role in maintaining a healthy deer population while providing families with a sustainable source of meat.
The state is also encouraging hunters to participate in the Georgia Hunters for the Hungry program, which provides donated venison to families facing food insecurity.
According to Killmaster, a single donated deer can provide enough protein for more than 100 meals.
The Wildlife Resources Division and Georgia Wildlife Federation are expanding the program to help reduce agricultural damage caused by deer while providing additional food assistance to Georgia families.
Hunters interested in donating deer can find participating processors at GWF.org/ghfth.
Georgia also offers nearly one million acres of public hunting opportunities through its Wildlife Management Areas. Hunters planning to use public lands should review the specific hunting dates and regulations for each location before heading into the field.
Under Georgia law, hunters may harvest up to 10 antlerless deer and no more than two antlered deer during the season. At least one of the antlered deer must have four points measuring one inch or longer on one side or an outside antler spread of at least 15 inches.
For most Georgia hunters, deer season will conclude January 10, 2027, although some counties have extended firearms or archery seasons.
Hunters are reminded that a valid hunting license, big game license, and current deer harvest record are required. All harvested deer must also be reported through Georgia Game Check within 24 hours.
Harvest reports can be submitted through the Outdoors GA mobile app, online at GoOutdoorsGeorgia.com, or by calling 1-800-366-2661.
Wildlife officials are also continuing efforts to monitor chronic wasting disease, commonly known as CWD. Hunters in Atkinson, Berrien, Lanier, and Lowndes counties are especially encouraged to have harvested deer tested. Testing remains available statewide.
As hunters prepare for opening weekend, the Wildlife Resources Division encourages everyone to review current regulations, practice firearm safety, and wear the required fluorescent orange or pink clothing while hunting.
For additional information about hunting regulations, public hunting opportunities, deer processing, and season dates, visit GeorgiaWildlife.com/deer-info.
The firearms season opens this Saturday, October 17, giving hunters throughout Northwest Georgia and across the state another opportunity to enjoy one of Georgia’s most popular outdoor traditions.