The countdown is on for Georgia hunters as the archery deer season officially opens on Saturday, September 13. With more than 86,000 archery hunters taking part last year and 40,000 deer harvested, the season marks one of the most anticipated times of year for outdoor enthusiasts across the state.
According to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division (WRD), hunters can use archery equipment throughout the entire 2025–2026 deer season, including during primitive weapons and firearms seasons on private land.
Harvest Limits and Key Dates
State law allows hunters to harvest up to 10 antlerless deer and no more than two antlered deer. Of those, at least one must meet antler requirements — either four points one inch or longer on one side, or an outside spread of 15 inches or more.
The season runs through January 11, 2026 for most areas, though some counties offer extended archery or firearms seasons. Hunters should consult the 2025–2026 Georgia Hunting and Fishing Regulations at GeorgiaWildlife.com for county-specific rules.
Licensing and Reporting Requirements
All deer hunters in Georgia must carry a valid hunting license, big game license, and current deer harvest record. Licenses can be purchased online at GoOutdoorsGeorgia.com, by phone at 1-800-366-2661, or at authorized retail agents.
Additionally, all harvested deer must be reported to Georgia Game Check within 24 hours. Reports can be filed using the Outdoors GA app — which works even without cell service — online, or via phone.
New Carcass Disposal Rule in Effect
This season brings a new statewide rule aimed at preventing the spread of Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD). All hunters, processors, and taxidermists must now follow proper disposal methods for deer carcasses and parts. These include:
Leaving remains on the harvest property
Using a certified commercial processor
Disposal in a permitted solid waste landfill
Deep burial, incineration, or methods approved under Georgia’s Dead Animal Disposal Act
For more information — including maps, local processor listings, and season updates — visit GeorgiaWildlife.com/deer-info.
