Today marks the start of Archery Deer season across the state.
Hunters are headed out into the wilderness today for the first deer season of 2026. The season runs to November 20th and then will have a second run from December 26th to January 24th of next year. Three Wildlife Management Units, one in the Allegheny County area and two in the southeastern corner of the state, have already seen a start to archery deer season.
Muzzleloader deer season will begin on October 17th, followed by special firearms season on the 25th. Rifle deer season begins November 28th, the Monday after Thanksgiving.
This year will mark the first hunting season with Sunday hunting expanded to include all Sundays that fall within the season’s start and end dates with the exception of migratory bird seasons. Many seasons that previously ended on Saturdays now end on Sundays, providing more weekend hunting opportunities throughout the year. While Sunday hunting is open for all state game lands and state forests, it’s limited in some state parks and state preserves.
Hunters are reminded to be careful when using tree stands, and to tag and report your harvest. You can do it online at huntfish.pa.gov, calling 1-800-838-4431 or by mail using a harvest report card.
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