Georgia’s firearms deer hunting season opened yesterday, Saturday, October 17, bringing thousands of hunters into the woods across Chattooga County and the rest of the state.

According to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Resources Division, the firearms season will continue into January 2027, with the season ending January 10 in most Georgia counties.

State wildlife officials say approximately 200,000 hunters harvested around 250,000 deer during the 2025-2026 firearms season. Regulated hunting helps manage Georgia’s deer population while providing hunters with a source of meat for their families.

Georgia’s statewide deer season limit is 12 deer, including no more than 10 antlerless deer and two antlered deer. At least one of the two antlered deer must have four points measuring at least one inch on one side of its antlers or an outside antler spread of at least 15 inches. Hunters should check county-specific either-sex hunting dates and regulations before heading into the woods.

Hunters are required to have a valid hunting license, big game license and current deer harvest record, unless exempt under state law. All harvested deer must be reported through Georgia Game Check within 24 hours.

The DNR is also encouraging hunters to participate in the expanded Georgia Hunters for the Hungry program, which allows hunters to donate harvested deer to participating processors. The donated venison helps provide meals for Georgia families in need.

Wildlife officials remind hunters to follow firearm safety rules, wear the required fluorescent orange or pink clothing and always identify their target and what lies beyond it before shooting.

Additional hunting regulations, season dates and license information are available at GeorgiaWildlife.com.