Georgia deer hunters will have another opportunity to head into the woods beginning Saturday as the state’s week-long primitive weapons deer hunting season gets underway.

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division says primitive weapons season opens Saturday, October 10, and continues through Friday, October 16. Hunters may use muzzleloaders and archery equipment during the season, while youth hunters are allowed to use modern firearms.

Nearly 11,000 deer were harvested during Georgia’s primitive weapons season last year, according to DNR.

State Deer Biologist Charlie Killmaster said the primitive weapons season provides a good opportunity for hunters ahead of the peak of the rut. DNR is also encouraging hunters to consider donating deer through the Georgia Hunters for the Hungry program, which provides venison to families in need.

Hunters using muzzleloaders are being reminded to take additional safety precautions. DNR recommends using only powder and ammunition appropriate for the specific muzzleloader, keeping powder away from flames and sparks, treating misfires as though the firearm could discharge at any moment, and always keeping the muzzle pointed in a safe direction.

Hunters should also treat every firearm as though it is loaded and make certain a muzzleloader is completely unloaded before cleaning it.

Georgia’s regular firearms deer season begins Saturday, October 17.

More information about deer hunting regulations and requirements is available from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources.