If you’re an Ohio hunter planning your next outing, knowing the shotgun season dates is essential. This list covers the specific shotgun seasons for various game birds and mammals in Ohio, offering detailed information on timing and regulations. Whether you’re after waterfowl, wild turkey, or deer, this guide helps you understand when shotgun use is permitted and why these seasons matter for your hunting plans.
1. Ohio Waterfowl Shotgun Season
The primary shotgun season for waterfowl in Ohio typically runs from late October through late January, with exact dates changing slightly each year based on federal regulations coordinated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Hunters target species like mallards, Canada geese, and wood ducks during this period. The season includes specific daily bag limits and restrictions on shotgun gauge and shot type to comply with conservation efforts and ensure sustainable populations.
2. Ohio Wild Turkey Shotgun Season
Ohio offers a fall shotgun season for wild turkey, usually starting in mid-October and lasting about two weeks. This season allows hunters to pursue turkeys using shotguns loaded with shot instead of rifles, accommodating areas where rifles are restricted. The shotgun season complements the spring archery and spring shotgun seasons, giving hunters multiple opportunities to harvest turkey legally.
3. Ohio Deer Firearm (Shotgun) Season
The traditional firearm deer season in Ohio, often referred to as the shotgun season, runs for nine days in early December. This is one of the most popular hunting periods, allowing hunters to use shotguns with slugs to harvest white-tailed deer. Ohio regulations specify that shotgun slugs or muzzleloader rounds must be used, and the season often coincides with the muzzleloader season to maximize hunting opportunities.
4. Ohio Youth Firearm (Shotgun) Deer Season
To encourage young hunters, Ohio offers a youth-only firearm deer season that usually occurs in early November, just before the general firearm season. Youth hunters can use shotguns with slugs during this time, providing a safe and controlled environment for novice hunters to gain experience. This season is limited to hunters 17 years old and younger and requires adult supervision.
5. Ohio Migratory Bird Special Youth Waterfowl Season
Ohio hosts a special youth waterfowl shotgun season, typically the weekend before the regular waterfowl season opens. This allows youth hunters to use shotguns to harvest ducks and geese in a less crowded setting. The youth season follows the same bag limits and species regulations as the main waterfowl season but aims to foster hunting skills among young participants.
6. Ohio Upland Bird Shotgun Season (Pheasant and Quail)
Ohio’s upland game bird shotgun season, covering species like pheasant and northern bobwhite quail, usually runs from mid-October through late December. Hunters use shotguns loaded with appropriate shot sizes to pursue these birds on public and private lands. The season is critical for managing upland bird populations and provides excellent opportunities for hunters seeking fast, challenging game.
7. Ohio Squirrel Shotgun Season
The shotgun season for squirrels in Ohio generally opens in early October and extends through late February. This long season allows hunters to use shotguns with small shot to hunt gray and fox squirrels in hardwood forests. Squirrel hunting is popular among families and youth hunters due to its accessibility and the skill involved in tree spotting and marksmanship.
8. Ohio Rabbit Shotgun Season
Ohio’s rabbit shotgun season overlaps with the squirrel season, running from early October to late February. Hunters use shotguns loaded with small shot to hunt eastern cottontail rabbits, which are abundant in brushy and edge habitats. This season supports small game hunting traditions and helps maintain balanced populations of rabbits in various ecosystems.
9. Ohio Canada Goose Late Season (Shotgun Allowed)
Following the regular waterfowl season, Ohio sometimes offers a late Canada goose season where shotguns remain legal for hunting. This late season, often in February, targets resident populations of Canada geese that remain after migratory birds have left. It provides hunters an extended opportunity to harvest geese, usually with more restrictive bag limits and zone-specific regulations.
10. Ohio Mourning Dove Shotgun Season
The mourning dove shotgun season in Ohio usually starts in early September and runs through mid-October. This early season allows hunters to use shotguns with shot to pursue mourning doves, a migratory species that frequents open fields and agricultural areas. The season is short but popular, offering a fast-paced hunting experience requiring quick reflexes and precision shooting.
How to Choose
When deciding which shotgun season to participate in, consider the species you want to hunt, your preferred hunting style, and the time of year you’re available. Waterfowl seasons require federal and state permits and adherence to migratory bird regulations, while upland and small game seasons may be more flexible with fewer restrictions. Also, think about whether you’re hunting solo, with youth, or beginners, as Ohio offers special youth seasons. Finally, check local regulations for zone-specific dates and bag limits to ensure compliance and a successful hunt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use steel shot during Ohio shotgun waterfowl season?
Yes, Ohio requires non-toxic shot such as steel, bismuth, or tungsten for waterfowl hunting to protect wetlands and waterfowl populations from lead poisoning.
Q: Is a separate license required for turkey shotgun season?
Yes, hunters need a valid Ohio hunting license and a wild turkey permit for the shotgun turkey season.
Q: Are there restrictions on shotgun gauge or ammo for deer season?
Ohio allows shotguns of 20 gauge or larger loaded with slugs for deer hunting during the firearm season.
Q: When does the youth shotgun deer season occur?
The youth firearm deer season is usually held in early November, about two weeks before the general firearm season.
Q: Can I hunt waterfowl with a shotgun during the late Canada goose season?
Yes, shotguns are permitted for Canada goose hunting during the late season, but hunters must follow specific bag limits and zone restrictions.
Q: Are there daily bag limits for mourning dove shotgun season?
Yes, Ohio sets a daily bag limit of 15 mourning doves per hunter during the shotgun season.
Final Thoughts
Ohio’s shotgun seasons offer a diverse range of opportunities for hunters targeting waterfowl, wild turkey, deer, and small game. Understanding the specific dates, regulations, and species involved ensures a safe and legal hunting experience. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a newcomer, planning your hunt around these shotgun seasons can maximize your success and enjoyment in Ohio’s varied outdoor environments.
Always consult the latest Ohio Department of Natural Resources hunting regulations before heading out, as season dates and rules can change annually based on wildlife management needs.
Related
- What Salad Goes with Enchiladas? 10 Perfect Pairings
- What Rice Goes with Chilli Con Carne? 10 Best Options Explained
- What Wood Should Not Be Cooked Over: A Guide to Safe Grilling