The upcoming general statewide deer gun season is scheduled to begin shortly after the holiday, running from December 1 through December 7, 2025. There is also an additional bonus weekend scheduled for December 20-21. Hunters of all ages gear up to participate in this popular season, which traditionally draws many Ohio residents and nonresidents outdoors. All gun hunters are required to wear hunter orange for safety during these seasons.
Youth hunting permits continue to be valid for all remaining Ohio deer hunting seasons through February 2, 2026, enabling young hunters to engage in other hunting opportunities such as archery, small game, wild turkey, and waterfowl seasons. The ODNR encourages mentorship programs and workshops for those interested in learning hunting skills or becoming mentors to new hunters.
The youth gun hunting season remains a key tradition in Ohio, fostering outdoor skills and wildlife management awareness among the next generation of hunters. The season’s strong turnout reflects ongoing interest and conservation efforts in the region’s white-tailed deer population.
