Deer hunting season continues across Georgia, and Northwest Georgia counties are reporting strong harvest numbers as the season heads into its final month and a half. According to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Chattooga County hunters have harvested 1,224 deer so far this season, reflecting a steady year as local hunters make full use of the region’s abundant deer population.

Neighboring counties are also seeing high totals. Floyd County leads the region with 2,491 deer harvested, followed by Gordon County at 2,344, Bartow with 2,134, Polk at 1,719, Walker with 1,644, Catoosa at 677, and Dade with 592. Statewide, more than 189,000 deer have been harvested this season.

Wildlife officials say that despite the strong numbers, more deer still need to be taken to maintain a healthy balance in Georgia’s herd. They note that fewer people are hunting each year, and many hunters do not come close to the state’s seasonal allowance of 12 deer per person. That can lead to overpopulation, crop damage, more vehicle collisions, and increased disease risk within the herd.

With hunting season winding down, officials are also stressing hunting safety. Hunters are reminded to wear blaze orange, always know their target and what’s beyond it, practice safe tree-stand procedures, and communicate their plans with family or friends before heading into the woods.

Rifle deer season in Georgia ends on January 11, 2026, giving Chattooga County hunters several more weeks to fill their freezer — and help keep the state’s deer population healthy