Hunters across Georgia are preparing for one of the most anticipated weekends of the year as the statewide firearms deer hunting season opens Saturday, October 17.
For many families in Jeff Davis County and throughout South Georgia, deer hunting is more than a recreational activity. It is a longstanding tradition that brings generations together and provides opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.
According to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the 2026–2027 firearms deer season will run from October 17 through January 10 in most Georgia counties. Hunters should check county-specific regulations, as some areas have different season dates and restrictions.
Before heading into the woods, hunters should make sure they have the appropriate licenses and permits. Most hunters are required to have a valid Georgia hunting license, a big game license and a current deer harvest record, although exemptions apply.
All harvested deer must be recorded and reported through Georgia Game Check within 24 hours of harvest. Hunters can report their harvests through the Outdoors GA app, online or by telephone.
Georgia’s statewide deer season bag limit is 12 deer, with no more than two antlered bucks. Additional restrictions apply to antlered deer, and hunters should review those requirements before the season begins.
Hunters are reminded that either-sex hunting opportunities vary by county. While antlered deer may generally be harvested throughout the firearms season, the dates when antlerless deer may be taken with firearms depend on the county and applicable regulations.
Hunters in Jeff Davis County and surrounding areas should review the Georgia hunting regulations before heading into the field.
The DNR reminds hunters that safety should always come first. During firearms deer season, hunters and those accompanying them are generally required to wear at least 500 square inches of daylight fluorescent orange or fluorescent pink above the waist. Hunters should also identify their targets and what lies beyond them, practice safe firearm handling and use appropriate fall-protection equipment when hunting from elevated stands.
The DNR continues to monitor chronic wasting disease (CWD), a serious neurological disease affecting deer. Hunters in designated surveillance areas, including parts of South Georgia, are encouraged to follow DNR guidance regarding testing and reporting.
Deer season is an important part of the outdoor heritage of Jeff Davis County and surrounding communities. Whether hunters are heading to a longtime family hunting property or taking a young hunter into the woods for the first time, the opening weekend offers another opportunity to enjoy that tradition.
Hunters are encouraged to follow all regulations, respect neighboring property owners and make safety a priority throughout the season.
For complete hunting regulations, licensing information and county-specific season dates, visit GeorgiaWildlife.com.
