Table of Contents
Discover everything you need to know about hunting in Kentucky, from regulations and seasons to public lands, guides, and essential gear recommendations.
Kentucky Hunting Regulations
The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources provides a detailed guide to hunting regulations, bag limits, and permitted hunting methods. Stay up to date with changes for the 2024-2025 season.
Hunting Seasons Calendar
Kentucky’s hunting seasons include opportunities for deer, turkey, waterfowl, and more. Key seasons include:
- Deer: Archery, modern gun, crossbow, and muzzleloader seasons.
- Turkey: Spring and fall seasons with specific bag limits.
- Elk: Limited quota hunts for elk with lottery-based permits.
- Small Game: Rabbit, squirrel, and other small game hunting opportunities.
Find the full schedule and regulations on the official Kentucky Hunting Seasons page.
2025 Kentucky Turkey Hunting Season Dates and Regulations
Spring Turkey Season
- Statewide Youth-Only Hunt: April 5–6, 2025
- General Season: April 12 – May 4, 2025
Fall Turkey Season
- Archery: September 6, 2025 – January 19, 2026
- Crossbow: October 1 – 19, 2025 and November 8 – December 31, 2025
- Shotgun: October 25 – 31, 2025 and December 6 – 12, 2025
Bag Limits
- Spring Season: Two male turkeys or turkeys with visible beards; no more than one per day.
- Fall Season: Four turkeys of either sex; no more than two taken with a shotgun.
Licensing and Permits
- All hunters must possess a valid Kentucky hunting license.
- A turkey permit is required unless the hunter is license-exempt.
Additional Regulations
- Hunters must report harvested turkeys through the Telecheck system by midnight on the day of harvest.
- It is illegal to hunt turkeys over bait or to use electronic calls.
- Consult specific Wildlife Management Area (WMA) regulations as they may have additional restrictions or requirements.
For comprehensive details and any updates, please refer to the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources’ Turkey Hunting page.
Public and Private Hunting Lands
Public Hunting Lands
Kentucky is home to numerous public hunting areas, including Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs), state forests, and federal lands:
- Daniel Boone National Forest
- Peabody WMA
- Kentucky River WMA
Private Land Access Programs
The **Kentucky Voluntary Public Access (VPA)** program provides hunting opportunities on private lands. Learn more about this initiative here.
Hunting Licenses and Permits
Kentucky hunters must purchase licenses and permits through the Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Online License System. Options include:
- Resident and non-resident hunting licenses
- Elk quota permits
- Special licenses for youth and senior hunters
Outfitters and Hunting Guides
While Kentucky does not maintain a public directory of hunting guides, hunters can find licensed outfitters specializing in elk, deer, turkey, and waterfowl hunts. Verify guide licenses and experience before booking a trip.
Gear Recommendations for Kentucky Hunts
Prepare for Kentucky’s diverse terrain and seasonal weather with these essentials:
- Clothing: Camouflage patterns suitable for forest and field environments; waterproof and windproof layers.
- Footwear: Durable, waterproof boots for rugged terrain and wet conditions.
- Hunting Equipment: Portable tree stands for deer, decoys, and calls for turkey and waterfowl.
Conservation and Ethical Hunting
Kentucky hunters play a vital role in wildlife conservation. Hunting license fees support habitat management, conservation programs, and species reintroduction projects. Adhere to ethical practices to ensure sustainability for future generations.
Hunting Tips for Kentucky
Maximize your chances of a successful hunt with these tips:
- Scout WMAs and public lands before the season starts to identify game movement patterns.
- Plan for varied weather conditions, especially during the late fall and early winter seasons.
- Familiarize yourself with local regulations and always carry your license and permits.
Plan Your Next Kentucky Hunt
From deer and turkey to elk and waterfowl, Kentucky offers hunting experiences for every skill level. Start planning today with the resources and tips provided here!
Kentucky Deer Harvest Report
https://app.fw.ky.gov/harvestdata/Records/Records?animal=Deer&report=resultsTotal