With the calendar turning toward mid-January, deer hunters across Northwest Georgia are in the final stretch of the 2025–26 season, and Georgia DNR is reminding sportsmen to double-check dates, follow county rules, and make safety a top priority in the woods.

Key season timing to know

According to Georgia DNR’s 2025–26 season dates, the statewide firearms deer season runs through January 11 (either-sex dates vary by county). 
A small group of Southwest Georgia counties has an extended firearms season through January 15, but that extension does not apply to Northwest Georgia counties. Georgia Wildlife

Georgia also has an extended archery season that continues through January 31, but it only applies to specific listed counties (hunters should verify whether their county is included). Georgia Wildlife

Because either-sex days vary by county, hunters in Northwest Georgia are encouraged to review their county’s either-sex calendar and any WMA-specific rules before heading out.

Northwest Georgia hunter safety reminders

As more hunters focus on late-season movement patterns, changing weather, and end-of-season opportunities, WZQZ is encouraging everyone to slow down and stay safe:

  • Wear blaze color: Georgia law allows fluorescent pink or fluorescent orange (at least 500 square inches) during hunting seasons—make sure you’re visible in thick winter cover. eRegulations

  • Know your target and beyond: Never shoot at movement, sound, or “brown”—positively identify the deer and what’s behind it.

  • Tree stand safety matters: Use a full-body harness and stay connected to the tree from the ground up—many late-season injuries happen around stands.

  • Communicate your plan: Tell someone where you’ll be and when you’ll return; carry a charged phone or radio.

  • Handle firearms safely: Keep the muzzle controlled, finger off the trigger until ready to shoot, and unload before crossing fences/obstacles or entering vehicles.

As always, hunters should also be sure they have the proper license, follow all bag limits, and check in harvests as required.