Bowhunters across Georgia will head back to the woods this weekend as the state’s 2026–27 archery deer season opens Saturday, Sept. 12. According to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division, approximately 87,000 archery hunters harvested 42,000 deer last season. Archery equipment may be used throughout the entire 2026–27 deer season.
Georgia hunters may harvest up to 10 antlerless deer and no more than two antlered deer during the season. Of the two antlered deer, at least one must have either a minimum of four points measuring one inch or longer on one side of the antlers or a minimum 15-inch outside antler spread.
For most Georgia hunters, deer season will end Jan. 10, 2027, although some counties have extended seasons. Hunters should check regulations for the county and property where they plan to hunt.
Georgia deer hunters are required to have a hunting license, big game license and current deer harvest record, unless otherwise exempt from licensing requirements. A current harvest record is required of all big-game hunters, including those otherwise exempt from purchasing a license.
Hunters must record a harvested deer before moving it from the kill site, with certain exceptions for Wildlife Management Area and National Wildlife Refuge hunts requiring check-out. Every harvested deer must then be reported through Georgia Game Check within 24 hours. Hunters can report through the Outdoors GA app, online through Go Outdoors Georgia or by calling 1-800-366-2661.
Hunters also need to be aware of a statewide carcass-disposal requirement aimed at reducing the potential spread of chronic wasting disease, or CWD. Proper disposal options include leaving unused carcass parts on the property where the deer was harvested, using a commercial deer processor, disposing of the remains at a permitted solid-waste landfill, or using another approved disposal method such as deep burial or incineration.
DNR is particularly encouraging hunters in Atkinson, Berrien, Lanier and Lowndes counties to have harvested deer tested for CWD.
DNR is also encouraging hunters to consider donating deer through the Georgia Hunters for the Hungry program. State deer biologist Charlie Killmaster said additional donated deer can provide meals for Georgia families while also helping farmers dealing with crop damage caused by deer.
Georgia Wildlife Management Areas provide hunters access to nearly one million acres of public hunting opportunities, although dates and regulations vary by property. Before heading to the woods Saturday, hunters are encouraged to review the current 2026–27 Georgia hunting regulations for the area where they plan to hunt.
Good luck to our local hunters as another Georgia deer season gets underway — and hunt safely!
Here are the official Georgia DNR 2026 archery season announcement and Georgia Game Check information for readers who want the full regulations.
