Georgia hunters will soon be heading back into the woods as the statewide deer archery season opens Saturday, Sept. 12.
According to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division, hunters may use archery equipment throughout the entire 2026-2027 deer season.
Archery hunting continues to be popular across the state. Wildlife officials say approximately 87,000 archery hunters harvested 42,000 deer during last year’s season.
As hunters prepare for opening day, state wildlife officials are also emphasizing the importance of tree stand safety.
Tree stands continue to be involved in a majority of hunting-related incidents reported in Georgia. During the 2025-2026 season, 18 of the state’s 24 reported hunting incidents were related to tree stand use. Two of those incidents were fatal.
Officials are encouraging hunters to inspect their equipment and review proper safety procedures before climbing into a stand this season. Hunters should make safety a priority each time they enter the woods, particularly when climbing, hunting from or descending from an elevated stand.
The Georgia Department of Natural Resources offers additional information about the 2026 deer archery season, hunting regulations and tree stand safety through its Wildlife Resources Division.