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Currently in Season

Beaver

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Hunting Licenses Needed:


Younger than 12:

  • License exempt

Youth 12-15:

  • Annual youth hunting license*

*Included in Youth Sportsman's License


Ages 16 and older:

  • Day (1 or 7 day) hunting license or annual hunting license**

**Included in Sportsman's and Disability/Senior License



Trapping Licenses Needed:


Younger than 12:

  • License exempt

Youth 12-15:

  • Youth trapping license

Ages 16 and older:

  • Trapping license

For more information, click exemptions and requirements or check our current Hunting Guide. Buy or renew your license here.



Hunting

Currently in Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 11 2024 - Feb 28 2025
Either Sex
Add to Calendar
One-half hour before sunrise Nov. 11, 2024 - Feb. 28, 2025.

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 10 2025 - Feb 28 2026
Add to Calendar
One-half hour before sunrise Nov. 10, 2025 - Feb. 28, 2026.

Trapping

Currently in Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 11 2024 - Feb 28 2025
Either Sex
Add to Calendar
One-half hour before sunrise Nov. 11, 2024 - Feb. 28, 2025.

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 10 2025 - Feb 28 2026
Add to Calendar
One-half hour before sunrise Nov. 10, 2025 - Feb. 28, 2026.

Bobcat

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Bag Limit is 5; no more than 3 of which shall be taken with a gun.


Younger than 12:

  • License exempt

Youth 12-15:

  • Annual youth hunting license*

*Included in Youth Sportsman's License

Ages 16 and older:

  • Day (1 or 7 day) hunting license or annual hunting license**

**Included in Sportsman's and Disability/Senior License


Trapping License needed:

Younger than 12:

  • License exempt

Youth 12-15:

  • Youth trapping license

Ages 16 and older:

  • Trapping license

For more information, click exemptions and requirements or check our current Hunting Guide. Buy or renew your license here.


Hunting

Currently in Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 16 2024 - Feb 28 2025
Either Sex
Add to Calendar
Bobcat hunters must carry a valid hunting license (unless license exempt) and a valid bobcat hunting permit while hunting. Bobcat permits are free. Permits are available online at fw.ky.gov in the license purchase section. Hunters and trappers are asked to submit the jaws of all harvested bobcats for population studies. Bobcat age will be provided to the harvester. A hunter or trapper who submits lower jaws from all their harvested bobcats in a single season to the department may receive one (1) additional bobcat to the bag limit for every two animals harvested the following season. The department must receive jaw samples from all harvested bobcats by March 15 per the instructions to qualify for the increased bag limit. Increased bag limits are non-transferable. Hunters and trappers must confirm an increased bag limit for the following season online through MyProfile at fw.ky.gov.

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 15 2025 - Feb 28 2026
Add to Calendar
Bobcat hunters must carry a valid hunting license (unless license exempt) and a valid bobcat hunting permit while hunting. Bobcat permits are free. Permits are available online at fw.ky.gov in the license purchase section. Hunters and trappers are asked to submit the jaws of all harvested bobcats for population studies. Bobcat age will be provided to the harvester. A hunter or trapper who submits lower jaws from all their harvested bobcats in a single season to the department may receive one (1) additional bobcat to the bag limit for every two animals harvested the following season. The department must receive jaw samples from all harvested bobcats by March 15 per the instructions to qualify for the increased bag limit. Increased bag limits are non-transferable. Hunters and trappers must confirm an increased bag limit for the following season online through MyProfile at fw.ky.gov.

Trapping

Currently in Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 11 2024 - Feb 28 2025
Either Sex
Add to Calendar
Bobcat hunters must carry a valid hunting license (unless license exempt) and a valid bobcat hunting permit while hunting. Bobcat permits are free. Permits are available online at fw.ky.gov in the license purchase section. Hunters and trappers are asked to submit the jaws of all harvested bobcats for population studies. Bobcat age will be provided to the harvester. A hunter or trapper who submits lower jaws from all their harvested bobcats in a single season to the department may receive one (1) additional bobcat to the bag limit for every two animals harvested the following season. The department must receive jaw samples from all harvested bobcats by March 15 per the instructions to qualify for the increased bag limit. Increased bag limits are non-transferable. Hunters and trappers must confirm an increased bag limit for the following season online through MyProfile at fw.ky.gov.

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 10 2025 - Feb 28 2026
Add to Calendar
Bobcat hunters must carry a valid hunting license (unless license exempt) and a valid bobcat hunting permit while hunting. Bobcat permits are free. Permits are available online at fw.ky.gov in the license purchase section. Hunters and trappers are asked to submit the jaws of all harvested bobcats for population studies. Bobcat age will be provided to the harvester. A hunter or trapper who submits lower jaws from all their harvested bobcats in a single season to the department may receive one (1) additional bobcat to the bag limit for every two animals harvested the following season. The department must receive jaw samples from all harvested bobcats by March 15 per the instructions to qualify for the increased bag limit. Increased bag limits are non-transferable. Hunters and trappers must confirm an increased bag limit for the following season online through MyProfile at fw.ky.gov.

Coot

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You must fill out your HIP survey before you go hunting. Go to "My Profile" to access this survey.


License and permit needed:


Younger than 12

  • License and permit exempt

Youth 12-15

  • Annual youth hunting license*

*Included in Youth Sportsman's License


Ages 16 and older

  • Day (1 or 7 day) hunting license or annual* hunting license
  • Kentucky Migratory Bird/Waterfowl Permit**
  • Federal Duck Stamp

*Included in the Youth Sportsman License / **Included in Resident Sportsman's License


Ages 65 and older OR Disabled

  • Senior/Disabled License
  • Federal Duck Stamp

For more information, click exemptions and requirements or check our current Waterfowl Hunting Guide. Buy or renew your license here.



Hunting

Currently in Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Dec 7 2024 - Jan 31 2025
Either Sex
Add to Calendar

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 27 2025 - Nov 30 2025
Add to Calendar

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Dec 7 2025 - Jan 31 2026
Add to Calendar

Coyote

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Coyotes may be hunted year-round with no bag limit.


A person may take a coyote after daylight hours, except that:

  1. It shall not be allowed in a county or area where a deer or elk firearm season is open;
  2. A person shall not use artificial light or other means designed to make wildlife visible at night from April 1st through May 15th and July 1st through November 30;
  3. Any artificial light or other means designed to make wildlife visible at night shall not be connected to or cast from a mechanized vehicle;
  4. On public lands (if open to nighttime coyote hunting) a person shall not use any equipment other than a bow, crossbow, or shotgun loaded with a multiple projectile shell.
  5. On private lands, coyote hunters may only use a bow, crossbow or shotgun loaded with pelleted shells. However, from Dec. 1 - March 31, and May 16 - June 30, hunters on private land at night may also use any breech-loading rifle or pistol of any caliber, a shotgun firing a single projectile or a muzzleloader of .54-caliber or less.


HUNTING

Ages 16 and Older:

  • Day Hunting License (1 or 7 Day)
    - OR -
  • Annual Hunting License
    - OR -
  • Sportsman's License
    - OR -
  • Disability/Senior License

Youth (12-15):

  • Annual Youth Hunting License
    - OR -
  • Youth Sportsman's License

Younger than 12:

  • License Exempt


TRAPPING

Ages 16 and Older:

  • Trapping License

Youth (12-15):

  • Youth Trapping License

Younger than 12:

  • License Exempt

For more information, click exemptions and requirements or check our current Hunting Guide. Buy or renew your license here.


Hunting

Currently in Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Mar 1 2024 - Feb 28 2025
Either Sex
Add to Calendar
Coyotes may be hunted year-round, day or night, with no bag limit. Hunters may only use artificial light or other means designed to make wildlife visible at night from Dec. 1 – March 31, and May 16 - June 30. Artificial light or other means designed to make wildlife visible at night cannot be connected to or cast from a mechanized vehicle. Coyote hunters with valid Mobility-Impaired Access Permits or Hunting Methods Exemption Vehicle Permits may use a stationary vehicle as a hunting platform and may use lights or other means designed to make wildlife visible at night so long as the means used are not connected to the vehicle. On public land after daylight hours, coyote hunters may only use a bow, crossbow or shotgun loaded with pelleted shells. However, from Dec. 1 - March 31, and May 16 - June 30, hunters on private land at night may also use any breechloading rifle or pistol of any caliber, a shotgun firing a single projectile or muzzleloader of .54-caliber or less. Night hunting shall not be allowed in a county or area where a deer or elk firearm or muzzleloader season is open. Night hunting for coyotes is prohibited on Kentucky lands managed by Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, Daniel Boone National Forest, George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area, Clarks River National Wildlife Refuge and Reelfoot National Wildlife Refuge, including Beaver Creek, Cane Creek, Mill Creek, Pioneer Weapons and Redbird wildlife management areas (WMAs). Hand or mouth-operated calls and electronic calls that imitate wounded prey or coyote calls are legal. It is legal to hunt coyotes over animal carcasses. Animal carcasses are considered bait. A hunter shall not place or distribute bait or otherwise participate in baiting wildlife on all WMAs, Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, Daniel Boone National Forest, Jefferson National Forest, Land Between The Lakes and state parks open to hunting.

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Mar 1 2025 - Feb 28 2026
Add to Calendar
Coyotes may be hunted year-round, day or night, with no bag limit. Hunters may only use artificial light or other means designed to make wildlife visible at night from Dec. 1 – March 31, and May 16 - June 30. Artificial light or other means designed to make wildlife visible at night cannot be connected to or cast from a mechanized vehicle. Coyote hunters with valid Mobility-Impaired Access Permits or Hunting Methods Exemption Vehicle Permits may use a stationary vehicle as a hunting platform and may use lights or other means designed to make wildlife visible at night so long as the means used are not connected to the vehicle. On public land after daylight hours, coyote hunters may only use a bow, crossbow or shotgun loaded with pelleted shells. However, from Dec. 1 - March 31, and May 16 - June 30, hunters on private land at night may also use any breechloading rifle or pistol of any caliber, a shotgun firing a single projectile or muzzleloader of .54-caliber or less. Night hunting shall not be allowed in a county or area where a deer or elk firearm or muzzleloader season is open. Night hunting for coyotes is prohibited on Kentucky lands managed by Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, Daniel Boone National Forest, George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area, Clarks River National Wildlife Refuge and Reelfoot National Wildlife Refuge, including Beaver Creek, Cane Creek, Mill Creek, Pioneer Weapons and Redbird wildlife management areas (WMAs). Hand or mouth-operated calls and electronic calls that imitate wounded prey or coyote calls are legal. It is legal to hunt coyotes over animal carcasses. Animal carcasses are considered bait. A hunter shall not place or distribute bait or otherwise participate in baiting wildlife on all WMAs, Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, Daniel Boone National Forest, Jefferson National Forest, Land Between The Lakes and state parks open to hunting.

Night Hunting - No Lights Allowed

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Jul 1 2025 - Nov 30 2025
Add to Calendar
Coyotes may be hunted year-round, day or night, with no bag limit. Hunters may only use artificial light or other means designed to make wildlife visible at night from Dec. 1 – March 31, and May 16 - June 30. Artificial light or other means designed to make wildlife visible at night cannot be connected to or cast from a mechanized vehicle. Coyote hunters with valid Mobility-Impaired Access Permits or Hunting Methods Exemption Vehicle Permits may use a stationary vehicle as a hunting platform and may use lights or other means designed to make wildlife visible at night so long as the means used are not connected to the vehicle. On public land after daylight hours, coyote hunters may only use a bow, crossbow or shotgun loaded with pelleted shells. However, from Dec. 1 - March 31, and May 16 - June 30, hunters on private land at night may also use any breechloading rifle or pistol of any caliber, a shotgun firing a single projectile or muzzleloader of .54-caliber or less. Night hunting shall not be allowed in a county or area where a deer or elk firearm or muzzleloader season is open. Night hunting for coyotes is prohibited on Kentucky lands managed by Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, Daniel Boone National Forest, George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area, Clarks River National Wildlife Refuge and Reelfoot National Wildlife Refuge, including Beaver Creek, Cane Creek, Mill Creek, Pioneer Weapons and Redbird wildlife management areas (WMAs). Hand or mouth-operated calls and electronic calls that imitate wounded prey or coyote calls are legal. It is legal to hunt coyotes over animal carcasses. Animal carcasses are considered bait. A hunter shall not place or distribute bait or otherwise participate in baiting wildlife on all WMAs, Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, Daniel Boone National Forest, Jefferson National Forest, Land Between The Lakes and state parks open to hunting.

Night Hunting with Lights

Currently in Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Dec 1 2024 - Mar 31 2025
Either Sex
Add to Calendar
Coyotes may be hunted year-round, day or night, with no bag limit. Hunters may only use artificial light or other means designed to make wildlife visible at night from Dec. 1 – March 31, and May 16 - June 30. Artificial light or other means designed to make wildlife visible at night cannot be connected to or cast from a mechanized vehicle. Coyote hunters with valid Mobility-Impaired Access Permits or Hunting Methods Exemption Vehicle Permits may use a stationary vehicle as a hunting platform and may use lights or other means designed to make wildlife visible at night so long as the means used are not connected to the vehicle. On public land after daylight hours, coyote hunters may only use a bow, crossbow or shotgun loaded with pelleted shells. However, from Dec. 1 - March 31, and May 16 - June 30, hunters on private land at night may also use any breechloading rifle or pistol of any caliber, a shotgun firing a single projectile or muzzleloader of .54-caliber or less. Night hunting shall not be allowed in a county or area where a deer or elk firearm or muzzleloader season is open. Night hunting for coyotes is prohibited on Kentucky lands managed by Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, Daniel Boone National Forest, George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area, Clarks River National Wildlife Refuge and Reelfoot National Wildlife Refuge, including Beaver Creek, Cane Creek, Mill Creek, Pioneer Weapons and Redbird wildlife management areas (WMAs). Hand or mouth-operated calls and electronic calls that imitate wounded prey or coyote calls are legal. It is legal to hunt coyotes over animal carcasses. Animal carcasses are considered bait. A hunter shall not place or distribute bait or otherwise participate in baiting wildlife on all WMAs, Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, Daniel Boone National Forest, Jefferson National Forest, Land Between The Lakes and state parks open to hunting.

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Jan 1 2025 - Mar 31 2025
Add to Calendar
Coyotes may be hunted year-round, day or night, with no bag limit. Hunters may only use artificial light or other means designed to make wildlife visible at night from Dec. 1 – March 31, and May 16 - June 30. Artificial light or other means designed to make wildlife visible at night cannot be connected to or cast from a mechanized vehicle. Coyote hunters with valid Mobility-Impaired Access Permits or Hunting Methods Exemption Vehicle Permits may use a stationary vehicle as a hunting platform and may use lights or other means designed to make wildlife visible at night so long as the means used are not connected to the vehicle. On public land after daylight hours, coyote hunters may only use a bow, crossbow or shotgun loaded with pelleted shells. However, from Dec. 1 - March 31, and May 16 - June 30, hunters on private land at night may also use any breechloading rifle or pistol of any caliber, a shotgun firing a single projectile or muzzleloader of .54-caliber or less. Night hunting shall not be allowed in a county or area where a deer or elk firearm or muzzleloader season is open. Night hunting for coyotes is prohibited on Kentucky lands managed by Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, Daniel Boone National Forest, George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area, Clarks River National Wildlife Refuge and Reelfoot National Wildlife Refuge, including Beaver Creek, Cane Creek, Mill Creek, Pioneer Weapons and Redbird wildlife management areas (WMAs). Hand or mouth-operated calls and electronic calls that imitate wounded prey or coyote calls are legal. It is legal to hunt coyotes over animal carcasses. Animal carcasses are considered bait. A hunter shall not place or distribute bait or otherwise participate in baiting wildlife on all WMAs, Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, Daniel Boone National Forest, Jefferson National Forest, Land Between The Lakes and state parks open to hunting.

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
May 16 2025 - Jun 30 2025
Add to Calendar
Coyotes may be hunted year-round, day or night, with no bag limit. Hunters may only use artificial light or other means designed to make wildlife visible at night from Dec. 1 – March 31, and May 16 - June 30. Artificial light or other means designed to make wildlife visible at night cannot be connected to or cast from a mechanized vehicle. Coyote hunters with valid Mobility-Impaired Access Permits or Hunting Methods Exemption Vehicle Permits may use a stationary vehicle as a hunting platform and may use lights or other means designed to make wildlife visible at night so long as the means used are not connected to the vehicle. On public land after daylight hours, coyote hunters may only use a bow, crossbow or shotgun loaded with pelleted shells. However, from Dec. 1 - March 31, and May 16 - June 30, hunters on private land at night may also use any breechloading rifle or pistol of any caliber, a shotgun firing a single projectile or muzzleloader of .54-caliber or less. Night hunting shall not be allowed in a county or area where a deer or elk firearm or muzzleloader season is open. Night hunting for coyotes is prohibited on Kentucky lands managed by Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, Daniel Boone National Forest, George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area, Clarks River National Wildlife Refuge and Reelfoot National Wildlife Refuge, including Beaver Creek, Cane Creek, Mill Creek, Pioneer Weapons and Redbird wildlife management areas (WMAs). Hand or mouth-operated calls and electronic calls that imitate wounded prey or coyote calls are legal. It is legal to hunt coyotes over animal carcasses. Animal carcasses are considered bait. A hunter shall not place or distribute bait or otherwise participate in baiting wildlife on all WMAs, Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, Daniel Boone National Forest, Jefferson National Forest, Land Between The Lakes and state parks open to hunting.

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Dec 1 2025 - Mar 31 2026
Add to Calendar
Coyotes may be hunted year-round, day or night, with no bag limit. Hunters may only use artificial light or other means designed to make wildlife visible at night from Dec. 1 – March 31, and May 16 - June 30. Artificial light or other means designed to make wildlife visible at night cannot be connected to or cast from a mechanized vehicle. Coyote hunters with valid Mobility-Impaired Access Permits or Hunting Methods Exemption Vehicle Permits may use a stationary vehicle as a hunting platform and may use lights or other means designed to make wildlife visible at night so long as the means used are not connected to the vehicle. On public land after daylight hours, coyote hunters may only use a bow, crossbow or shotgun loaded with pelleted shells. However, from Dec. 1 - March 31, and May 16 - June 30, hunters on private land at night may also use any breechloading rifle or pistol of any caliber, a shotgun firing a single projectile or muzzleloader of .54-caliber or less. Night hunting shall not be allowed in a county or area where a deer or elk firearm or muzzleloader season is open. Night hunting for coyotes is prohibited on Kentucky lands managed by Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, Daniel Boone National Forest, George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area, Clarks River National Wildlife Refuge and Reelfoot National Wildlife Refuge, including Beaver Creek, Cane Creek, Mill Creek, Pioneer Weapons and Redbird wildlife management areas (WMAs). Hand or mouth-operated calls and electronic calls that imitate wounded prey or coyote calls are legal. It is legal to hunt coyotes over animal carcasses. Animal carcasses are considered bait. A hunter shall not place or distribute bait or otherwise participate in baiting wildlife on all WMAs, Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, Daniel Boone National Forest, Jefferson National Forest, Land Between The Lakes and state parks open to hunting.

Trapping

Currently in Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 11 2024 - Feb 28 2025
Either Sex
Add to Calendar
One-half hour before sunrise on Nov. 11, 2024 - Feb. 28, 2025.

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 10 2025 - Feb 28 2026
Add to Calendar
One-half hour before sunrise on Nov. 11, 2024 - Feb. 28, 2025.

Deer

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PLEASE NOTE:

  • A hunter is limited to one (1) deer with visible antlers (excluding button bucks) per license year, regardless of what zone it is taken. The one-antlered deer can be taken under the statewide deer permit or the Deer Management Permit.
  • Bag limits by zone are listed below.
  • Hunters shall abide by the equipment restrictions in place for each season.

RESTRICTIONS BY ZONE:


Zone 1

  • Unlimited antlerless deer may be taken with the proper permits.

Zone 2

  • A hunter may take no more than four (4) deer.
  • All four (4) deer may be taken with any weapon.

Zone 3

  • A hunter may take no more than four (4) deer.
  • A hunter may take no more than one (1) antlerless deer with a firearm. Firearm means a breech or muzzle-loading rifle, shotgun or handgun.
  • All four (4) deer may be taken with archery or crossbow equipment.

Zone 4

  • A hunter may take no more than two (2) deer.
  • A hunter may take no more than one (1) antlerless deer.
  • Antlerless deer may be taken during the archery season, crossbow season, both youth seasons or the last three days of the December muzzleloader season.

For more information, click exemptions and requirements or check our current Hunting Guide. Buy or renew your license here.



Archery

Currently in Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Sep 7 2024 - Jan 20 2025
Either Sex
Add to Calendar

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Sep 6 2025 - Jan 19 2026
Add to Calendar

Crossbow

Currently in Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Sep 21 2024 - Jan 20 2025
Either Sex
Add to Calendar
General crossbow season: Senior/youth crossbow season is Sept. 7, 2024, through Jan. 20, 2025. Hunters may use archery equipment during this season. Exceptions for Zone 4: Antlerless deer (does) cannot be harvested during the modern gun season, Nov. 9-24, 2024, during the early muzzleloader season, Oct. 19-20, 2024, or during the first six days of muzzleloader season, Dec. 14-19, 2024.

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Sep 20 2025 - Jan 19 2026
Add to Calendar
General crossbow season: Senior/youth crossbow season is Sept. 6, 2025, through Jan. 19, 2026. Hunters may use archery equipment during this season. Exceptions for Zone 4: Antlerless deer (does) cannot be harvested during the modern gun season, Nov. 8-23, 2025, during the early muzzleloader season, Oct. 18-19, 2025, or during the first six days of muzzleloader season, Dec. 13-18, 2025.

Modern Gun

Upcoming Season

Location:
Zone 1, 2 and 3
Season Dates:
Nov 8 2025 - Nov 23 2025
Add to Calendar
Hunters may use any method legal for deer hunting during modern firearms season, including muzzleloading firearms, archery and crossbow equipment. Blaze orange requirements for deer hunters still apply regardless of method. See Zone 4 listing for separate harvest regulations.

Upcoming Season

Location:
Zone 4
Season Dates:
Nov 8 2025 - Nov 23 2025
Antlered
Add to Calendar
Hunters may use any method legal for deer hunting during modern firearms season, including muzzleloading firearms, archery and crossbow equipment. In Zone 4, which includes much of southeastern Kentucky, hunters may not harvest antlerless deer (does) during modern gun season, regardless of hunting method

Muzzle-loader

Past Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Dec 14 2024 - Dec 22 2024
Either Sex
Add to Calendar
Late muzzleloader season. In Zone 4, antlerless deer may not be taken from 12-14-24 through 12-19-24. From 12-20-24 through 12-22-24, hunters may harvest an antlerless deer. Hunters may use archery equipment or crossbows during this season. Blaze orange requirements for deer hunters still apply regardless of method.

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Oct 18 2025 - Oct 19 2025
Add to Calendar
Early Muzzleloader season: Zones 1, 2 and 3: Open to either sex. Zone 4: Antlered Deer Only.

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Dec 13 2025 - Dec 21 2025
Add to Calendar
Late muzzleloader season. In Zone 4, antlerless deer may not be taken Dec. 13, 2025 through Dec. 18, 2025. From Dec. 19, 2025 through Dec. 21, 2025, hunters may harvest an antlerless deer. Hunters may use archery equipment or crossbows during this season. Blaze orange requirements for deer hunters still apply regardless of method.

Youth-Free

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Dec 28 2024 - Dec 29 2024
Either Sex
Add to Calendar

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Dec 27 2025 - Dec 28 2025
Add to Calendar

Youth-Only

*** Proposed Season Date Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Oct 11 2025 - Oct 12 2025
Add to Calendar
Potential change to the season dates. Please check back for future updates.

Dove

 print

You must fill out your HIP survey before you go hunting. Go to "My Profile" to access this survey.


License and permit needed:


Younger than 12

  • License and permit exempt

Youth 12-15

  • Annual youth hunting license*

*Included in Youth Sportsman's License


Ages 16 and older

  • Day (1 or 7 day) hunting license or annual* hunting license
  • Kentucky Migratory Bird/Waterfowl Permit**

*Included in the Youth Sportsman License / **Included in Resident Sportsman's License


Ages 65 and older OR Disabled

  • Senior/Disabled License

For more information, click exemptions and requirements or check our current Migratory Bird Hunting Guide. Buy or renew your license here.



Hunting

Past Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 28 2024 - Dec 8 2024
Either Sex
Add to Calendar

Currently in Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Dec 21 2024 - Jan 12 2025
Either Sex
Add to Calendar

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Sep 1 2025 - Oct 26 2025
Add to Calendar

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 27 2025 - Dec 7 2025
Add to Calendar

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Dec 20 2025 - Jan 11 2026
Add to Calendar

Duck

 print

You must fill out your HIP survey before you go hunting. Go to "My Profile" to access this survey. For information on Early Seasons see Wood Ducks or Teal.


License and permit needed:


Younger than 12

  • License and permit exempt

Youth 12-15

  • Annual youth hunting license*

*Included in Youth Sportsman's License


Ages 16 and older

  • Day (1 or 7 day) hunting license or annual* hunting license
  • Kentucky Migratory Bird/Waterfowl Permit**
  • Federal Duck Stamp

*Included in the Youth Sportsman License / **Included in Resident Sportsman's License


Ages 65 and older OR Disabled

  • Senior/Disabled License
  • Federal Duck Stamp

For more information, click exemptions and requirements or check our current Waterfowl Hunting Guide. Buy or renew your license here.



Falconry

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 27 2025 - Feb 22 2026
Add to Calendar

Hunting

Currently in Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Dec 7 2024 - Jan 31 2025
Either Sex
Add to Calendar

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 27 2025 - Nov 30 2025
Add to Calendar

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Dec 7 2025 - Jan 31 2026
Add to Calendar

Falconry

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Falconry

Currently in Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Sep 1 2024 - Mar 30 2025
Either Sex
Add to Calendar
Small Game Season

Currently in Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 28 2024 - Feb 15 2025
Either Sex
Add to Calendar
Goose Season

Currently in Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 28 2024 - Feb 22 2025
Either Sex
Add to Calendar
Duck Season

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Sep 1 2025 - Mar 30 2026
Add to Calendar
Small Game

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 27 2025 - Feb 22 2026
Add to Calendar
Duck Season

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 27 2025 - Feb 15 2026
Add to Calendar
Goose Season

Small Game

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Sep 1 2025 - Mar 30 2026
Add to Calendar

Fox-Gray

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Hunting License needed:


Younger than 12:

  • License exempt

Youth 12-15:

  • Annual youth hunting license*

*Included in Youth Sportsman's License


Ages 16 and older:

  • Day (1 or 7 day) hunting license or annual hunting license**

**Included in Sportsman's and Disability/Senior License



Trapping License needed:


Younger than 12:

  • License exempt

Youth 12-15:

  • Youth trapping license

Ages 16 and older:

  • Trapping license

For more information, click exemptions and requirements or check our current Hunting Guide. Buy or renew your license here.



Hunting

Currently in Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 11 2024 - Feb 28 2025
Either Sex
Add to Calendar
One-half hour before sunrise Nov. 11, 2024 - Feb. 28, 2025.

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 10 2025 - Feb 28 2026
Add to Calendar
One-half hour before sunrise Nov. 10, 2025 - Feb. 28, 2026.

Trapping

Currently in Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 11 2024 - Feb 28 2025
Either Sex
Add to Calendar
One-half hour before sunrise Nov. 11, 2024 - Feb. 28, 2025.

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 10 2025 - Feb 28 2026
Add to Calendar
One-half hour before sunrise Nov. 10, 2025 - Feb. 28, 2026.

Fox-Red

 print

Hunting License needed:


Younger than 12:

  • License exempt

Youth 12-15:

  • Annual youth hunting license*

*Included in Youth Sportsman's License


Ages 16 and older:

  • Day (1 or 7 day) hunting license or annual hunting license**

**Included in Sportsman's and Disability/Senior License



Trapping License needed:


Younger than 12:

  • License exempt

Youth 12-15:

  • Youth trapping license

Ages 16 and older:

  • Trapping license

For more information, click exemptions and requirements or check our current Hunting Guide. Buy or renew your license here.



Hunting

Currently in Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 11 2024 - Feb 28 2025
Either Sex
Add to Calendar
One-half hour before sunrise Nov. 11, 2024 - Feb. 28, 2025.

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 10 2025 - Feb 28 2026
Add to Calendar
One-half hour before sunrise Nov. 10, 2025 - Feb. 28, 2026.

Trapping

Currently in Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 11 2024 - Feb 28 2025
Either Sex
Add to Calendar
One-half hour before sunrise Nov. 11, 2024 - Feb. 28, 2025.

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 10 2025 - Feb 28 2026
Add to Calendar
One-half hour before sunrise Nov. 10, 2025 - Feb. 28, 2026.

Goose-Canada

 print

You must fill out your HIP survey before you go hunting. Go to "My Profile" to access this survey.


License and permit needed:


Younger than 12

  • License and permit exempt

Youth 12-15

  • Annual youth hunting license*

*Included in Youth Sportsman's License


Ages 16 and older

  • Day (1 or 7 day) hunting license or annual* hunting license
  • Kentucky Migratory Bird/Waterfowl Permit**
  • Federal Duck Stamp

*Included in the Youth Sportsman License / **Included in Resident Sportsman's License


Ages 65 and older OR Disabled

  • Senior/Disabled License
  • Federal Duck Stamp

**Included in Sportsman's and Disability/Senior License


For more information, click exemptions and requirements or check our current Waterfowl Hunting Guide. Buy or renew your license here.



Hunting

Currently in Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 28 2024 - Feb 15 2025
Either Sex
Add to Calendar

Upcoming Season

Location:
Early Canada Goose Western Zone
Season Dates:
Sep 1 2025 - Sep 15 2025
Add to Calendar
Early Canada Goose Western Zone

Upcoming Season

Location:
Early Canada Goose Eastern Zone
Season Dates:
Sep 16 2025 - Sep 30 2025
Add to Calendar
Early Canada Goose Eastern Zone

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 27 2025 - Feb 15 2025
Add to Calendar

Goose-Snow Ross

 print

You must fill out your HIP survey before you go hunting. Go to "My Profile" to access this survey.


License and permit needed:


Younger than 12

  • License and permit exempt

Youth 12-15

  • Annual youth hunting license*

*Included in Youth Sportsman's License


Ages 16 and older

  • Day (1 or 7 day) hunting license or annual* hunting license
  • Kentucky Migratory Bird/Waterfowl Permit**
  • Federal Duck Stamp

*Included in the Youth Sportsman License / **Included in Resident Sportsman's License


Ages 65 and older OR Disabled

  • Senior/Disabled License
  • Federal Duck Stamp

**Included in Sportsman's and Disability/Senior License


For more information, click exemptions and requirements or check our current Waterfowl Hunting Guide. Buy or renew your license here.



Hunting

Currently in Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 28 2024 - Feb 15 2025
Either Sex
Add to Calendar

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 27 2025 - Feb 15 2026
Add to Calendar

Goose-White-Fronted & Brant

 print

You must fill out your HIP survey before you go hunting. Go to "My Profile" to access this survey.


License and permit needed:


Younger than 12

  • License and permit exempt

Youth 12-15

  • Annual youth hunting license*

*Included in Youth Sportsman's License


Ages 16 and older

  • Day (1 or 7 day) hunting license or annual* hunting license
  • Kentucky Migratory Bird/Waterfowl Permit**
  • Federal Duck Stamp

*Included in the Youth Sportsman License / **Included in Resident Sportsman's License


Ages 65 and older OR Disabled

  • Senior/Disabled License
  • Federal Duck Stamp

**Included in Sportsman's and Disability/Senior License


For more information, click exemptions and requirements or check our current Waterfowl Hunting Guide. Buy or renew your license here.



Hunting

Currently in Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 28 2024 - Feb 15 2025
Either Sex
Add to Calendar

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 27 2025 - Feb 15 2025
Add to Calendar

Groundhog

 print

License needed:


Younger than 12:

  • License exempt

Youth 12-15:
  • Annual youth hunting license*

*Included in Youth Sportsman's License

Ages 16 and older:

  • Day (1 or 7 day) hunting license or annual hunting license**
**Included in Sportsman's and Disability/Senior License


For more information, click exemptions and requirements or check our current Hunting Guide. Buy or renew your license here.



Hunting

Currently in Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Mar 1 2024 - Feb 28 2025
Either Sex
Add to Calendar

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Mar 1 2025 - Feb 28 2026
Add to Calendar

Trapping

Currently in Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 11 2024 - Feb 28 2025
Either Sex
Add to Calendar

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Mar 1 2025 - Feb 28 2026
Add to Calendar

Grouse

 print

In Grouse Zone ONLY. Grouse hunting is also allowed on Pennyrile State Forest, Tradewater WMA and Ft. Knox during the month of December, except during quota deer hunts.


License needed:


Younger than 12:

  • License exempt

Youth 12-15:

  • Annual youth hunting license*

*Included in Youth Sportsman's License


Ages 16 and older:

  • Day (1 or 7 day) hunting license or annual hunting license**

**Included in Sportsman's and Disability/Senior License


For more information, click exemptions and requirements or check our current Hunting Guide. Buy or renew your license here.

Hunting

Currently in Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 11 2024 - Feb 28 2025
Either Sex
Add to Calendar

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 1 2025 - Nov 7 2025
Add to Calendar

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 10 2025 - Feb 10 2026
Add to Calendar

Merganser

 print

You must fill out your HIP survey before you go hunting. Go to "My Profile" to access this survey.


License and permit needed:


Younger than 12

  • License and permit exempt

Youth 12-15

  • Annual youth hunting license*

*Included in Youth Sportsman's License


Ages 16 and older
  • Day (1 or 7 day) hunting license or annual** hunting license
  • Kentucky Migratory Bird/Waterfowl Permit**
  • Federal Duck Stamp

**Included in Sportsman's and Disability/Senior License


Ages 65 and older OR Disabled

  • Senior/Disabled License
  • Federal Duck Stamp

For more information, click exemptions and requirements or check our current Waterfowl Hunting Guide. Buy or renew your license here.



Hunting

Currently in Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Dec 7 2024 - Jan 31 2025
Either Sex
Add to Calendar

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 27 2025 - Nov 30 2025
Add to Calendar

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Dec 7 2025 - Jan 31 2026
Add to Calendar

Mink

 print

Hunting License needed:


Younger than 12:

  • License exempt

Youth 12-15:

  • Annual youth hunting license*

*Included in Youth Sportsman's License


Ages 16 and older:

  • Day (1 or 7 day) hunting license or annual hunting license**

**Included in Sportsman's and Disability/Senior License


Trapping License needed:

Younger than 12:

  • License exempt

Youth 12-15:

  • Youth trapping license

Ages 16 and older:

  • Trapping license

For more information, click exemptions and requirements or check our current Hunting Guide. Buy or renew your license here.



Hunting

Currently in Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 11 2024 - Feb 28 2025
Either Sex
Add to Calendar
One-half hour before sunrise Nov. 11, 2024 - Feb. 28, 2025.

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 10 2025 - Feb 28 2026
Add to Calendar
One-half hour before sunrise Nov. 10, 2025 - Feb. 28, 2026.

Trapping

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 10 2025 - Feb 28 2026
Add to Calendar
One-half hour before sunrise Nov. 10, 2025 - Feb. 28, 2026.

Muskrat

 print

Hunting License needed:


Younger than 12:

  • License exempt

Youth 12-15:

  • Annual youth hunting license*

*Included in Youth Sportsman's License


Ages 16 and older:

  • Day (1 or 7 day) hunting license or annual hunting license**

**Included in Sportsman's and Disability/Senior License



Trapping License needed:


Younger than 12:

  • License exempt

Youth 12-15:

  • Youth trapping license

Ages 16 and older:

  • Trapping license

For more information, click exemptions and requirements or check our current Hunting Guide. Buy or renew your license here.



Hunting

Currently in Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 11 2024 - Feb 28 2025
Either Sex
Add to Calendar
One-half hour before sunrise Nov. 11, 2024 - Feb. 28, 2025.

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 10 2025 - Feb 28 2026
Add to Calendar
One-half hour before sunrise Nov. 10, 2025 - Feb. 28, 2026.

Trapping

Currently in Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 11 2024 - Feb 28 2025
Either Sex
Add to Calendar
One-half hour before sunrise Nov. 11, 2024 - Feb. 28, 2025.

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 10 2025 - Feb 28 2026
Add to Calendar
One-half hour before sunrise Nov. 10, 2025 - Feb. 28, 2026.

Opossum

 print

Hunting License needed:


Younger than 12:

  • License exempt

Youth 12-15:

  • Annual youth hunting license*

*Included in Youth Sportsman's License


Ages 16 and older:

  • Day (1 or 7 day) hunting license or annual hunting license**

**Included in Sportsman's and Disability/Senior License



Trapping License needed:


Younger than 12:

  • License exempt

Youth 12-15:

  • Youth trapping license

Ages 16 and older:

  • Trapping license

For more information, click exemptions and requirements or check our current Hunting Guide. Buy or renew your license here.



Hunting

Currently in Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Oct 1 2024 - Feb 28 2025
Either Sex
Add to Calendar
Hunting is not allowed during daylight hours during modern gun deer season.

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Oct 1 2025 - Feb 28 2026
Add to Calendar
Hunting is not allowed during daylight hours during modern gun deer season.

Trapping

Currently in Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 11 2024 - Feb 28 2025
Either Sex
Add to Calendar
One-half hour before sunrise on Nov. 11, 2024 - Feb. 28, 2025.

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 10 2025 - Feb 28 2026
Add to Calendar
One-half hour before sunrise on Nov. 10, 2025 - Feb. 28, 2026.

Quail

 print

License needed:


Younger than 12:

  • License exempt

Youth 12-15:

  • Annual youth hunting license*

*Included in Youth Sportsman's License


Ages 16 and older:

  • Day (1 or 7 day) hunting license or annual hunting license**

**Included in Sportsman's and Disability/Senior License


For more information, click exemptions and requirements or check our current Hunting Guide. Buy or renew your license here.



Hunting

Currently in Season

Location:
Western Zone
Season Dates:
Nov 11 2024 - Feb 10 2025
Either Sex
Add to Calendar

Currently in Season

Location:
Eastern Zone
Season Dates:
Nov 11 2024 - Jan 31 2025
Either Sex
Add to Calendar

Upcoming Season

Location:
Eastern Zone
Season Dates:
Nov 1 2025 - Nov 7 2025
Add to Calendar

Upcoming Season

Location:
Eastern Zone
Season Dates:
Nov 10 2025 - Jan 31 2026
Add to Calendar

Upcoming Season

Location:
Western Zone
Season Dates:
Nov 10 2025 - Feb 10 2026
Add to Calendar

Rabbit

 print

Rabbit trapping is permitted only when rabbit hunting season is open in each zone. Quail may not be trapped.


Hunting License needed:


Younger than 12:

  • License exempt

Youth 12-15:

  • Annual youth hunting license*

*Included in Youth Sportsman's License


Ages 16 and older:

  • Day (1 or 7 day) hunting license or annual hunting license**

**Included in Sportsman's and Disability/Senior License



Trapping License needed:


Younger than 12:

  • License exempt

Youth 12-15:

  • Youth trapping license

Ages 16 and older:

  • Trapping license

For more information, click exemptions and requirements or check our current Hunting Guide. Buy or renew your license here.



Hunting

Currently in Season

Location:
Western Zone
Season Dates:
Nov 11 2024 - Feb 10 2025
Either Sex
Add to Calendar

Currently in Season

Location:
Eastern Zone
Season Dates:
Nov 11 2024 - Jan 31 2025
Either Sex
Add to Calendar

Upcoming Season

Location:
Eastern Zone
Season Dates:
Nov 1 2025 - Nov 7 2025
Add to Calendar

Upcoming Season

Location:
Eastern Zone
Season Dates:
Nov 10 2025 - Jan 31 2026
Add to Calendar

Upcoming Season

Location:
Western Zone
Season Dates:
Nov 10 2025 - Feb 10 2026
Add to Calendar

Trapping

Currently in Season

Location:
Western Zone
Season Dates:
Nov 11 2024 - Feb 10 2025
Either Sex
Add to Calendar

Currently in Season

Location:
Eastern Zone
Season Dates:
Nov 11 2024 - Jan 31 2025
Either Sex
Add to Calendar

Upcoming Season

Location:
Eastern Zone
Season Dates:
Nov 1 2025 - Nov 7 2025
Add to Calendar

Upcoming Season

Location:
Eastern Zone
Season Dates:
Nov 10 2025 - Jan 31 2026
Add to Calendar

Upcoming Season

Location:
Western Zone
Season Dates:
Nov 10 2025 - Feb 10 2026
Add to Calendar

Raccoon

 print

Hunting License needed:


Younger than 12:

  • License exempt

Youth 12-15:

  • Annual youth hunting license*

*Included in Youth Sportsman's License


Ages 16 and older:

  • Day (1 or 7 day) hunting license or annual hunting license**

**Included in Sportsman's and Disability/Senior License



Trapping License needed:


Younger than 12:

  • License exempt

Youth 12-15:

  • Youth trapping license

Ages 16 and older:

  • Trapping license

For more information, click exemptions and requirements or check our current Hunting Guide. Buy or renew your license here.



Hunting

Currently in Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Oct 1 2024 - Feb 28 2025
Either Sex
Add to Calendar
Hunting is not allowed during daylight hours during modern gun deer season.

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Oct 1 2025 - Feb 28 2026
Add to Calendar
Hunting is not allowed during daylight hours during modern gun deer season.

Trapping

Currently in Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 11 2024 - Feb 28 2025
Add to Calendar
One-half hour before sunrise on Nov. 11, 2024 - Feb. 28, 2025.

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 10 2025 - Feb 28 2026
Add to Calendar
One-half hour before sunrise on Nov. 10, 2025 - Feb. 28, 2026.

River Otter

 print

Bag Limit is 10; only 6 of which can be taken from Otter Zone 2.


Hunting License needed:


Younger than 12:

  • License exempt

Youth 12-15:

  • Annual youth hunting license*

*Included in Youth Sportsman's License


Ages 16 and older:

  • Day (1 or 7 day) hunting license or annual hunting license**

**Included in Sportsman's and Disability/Senior License



Trapping License needed:


Younger than 12:

  • License exempt

Youth 12-15:

  • Youth trapping license

Ages 16 and older:

  • Trapping license

For more information, click exemptions and requirements or check our current Hunting Guide. Buy or renew your license here.



Hunting

Currently in Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 11 2024 - Feb 28 2025
Either Sex
Add to Calendar

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 10 2025 - Feb 28 2026
Add to Calendar

Trapping

Currently in Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 11 2024 - Feb 28 2025
Either Sex
Add to Calendar

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 10 2025 - Feb 28 2026
Add to Calendar

Sandhill Crane

 print

You must fill out your HIP survey before you go hunting. Go to "My Profile" to access this survey. NOTICE: Anyone hunting sandhill cranes, regardless of age or status must apply for and possess a Sandhill Crane Hunting Permit to hunt cranes.


License and permit needed:


Younger than 12

  • License and permit exempt


Youth 12-15

  • Annual youth hunting license*

*Included in Youth Sportsman's License


Ages 16 and Older

  • Day (1 or 7 day) hunting license or annual** hunting license
  • Kentucky Migratory Bird/Waterfowl Permit**
  • HIP Verification Number
  • (Federal Duck Stamp is not required)

**Included in Sportsman's and Disability/Senior License


For more information, click exemptions and requirements or check our current Waterfowl Hunting Guide. Buy or renew your license here.



Hunting

Currently in Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Dec 7 2024 - Jan 31 2025
Either Sex
Add to Calendar
Hunters must apply for a sandhill crane permit online during the month of September on the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources website and pay a $3 application fee. Applicants must have a valid Kentucky hunting license or be license exempt when they apply. Results are posted to individual applicants online following the drawing. Drawn hunters must pass an online identification exam before receiving a sandhill crane hunting permit. Hunters must telecheck harvested birds on the day taken. Hunters participating in the sandhill crane hunting season must complete a postseason survey by Feb. 14 or lose eligibility to apply the following year.

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Dec 7 2025 - Jan 31 2026
Add to Calendar
Hunters must apply for a sandhill crane permit online during the month of September on the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources website and pay a $3 application fee. Applicants must have a valid Kentucky hunting license or be license-exempt when they apply. Results are posted to individual applicants online following the drawing. Drawn hunters must pass an online identification exam before receiving a sandhill crane hunting permit. Hunters must telecheck harvested birds on the day taken. Hunters participating in the sandhill crane hunting season must complete a postseason survey by Feb. 14 or lose eligibility to apply the following year.

Snipe

 print

You must fill out your HIP survey before you go hunting. Go to "My Profile" to access this survey.


License and permit needed:


Younger than 12

  • License and permit exempt

Youth 12-15

  • Annual youth hunting license*

*Included in Youth Sportsman's License


Ages 16 and older

  • Day (1 or 7 day) hunting license or annual** hunting license
  • Kentucky Migratory Bird/Waterfowl Permit**

**Included in Sportsman's and Disability/Senior License


For more information, click exemptions and requirements or check our current Migratory Bird Hunting Guide. Buy or renew your license here.



Hunting

Currently in Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 28 2024 - Feb 2 2025
Add to Calendar

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Sep 17 2025 - Oct 26 2025
Add to Calendar

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 27 2025 - Dec 10 2025
Add to Calendar

Squirrel-Fall

 print

License and Permit needed:

  • Day (1 or 7 day) hunting license or annual* hunting license

*Included in Sportsman's and Disability/Senior License


For more information, click exemptions and requirements or check our current Hunting Guide. Buy or renew your license here.



Hunting

Currently in Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 11 2024 - Feb 28 2025
Either Sex
Add to Calendar

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Aug 16 2025 - Nov 7 2025
Add to Calendar

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 10 2025 - Feb 28 2026
Add to Calendar

Striped Skunk

 print

Hunting License needed:


Younger than 12:

  • License exempt

Youth 12-15:

  • Annual youth hunting license*

*Included in Youth Sportsman's License


Ages 16 and older:

  • Day (1 or 7 day) hunting license or annual hunting license**

**Included in Sportsman's and Disability/Senior License



Trapping License needed:


Younger than 12:

  • License exempt

Youth 12-15:

  • Youth trapping license

Ages 16 and older:

  • Trapping license

For more information, click exemptions and requirements or check our current Hunting Guide. Buy or renew your license here.



Hunting

Currently in Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 11 2024 - Feb 28 2025
Either Sex
Add to Calendar
One-half hour before sunrise Nov. 11, 2024 - Feb. 28, 2025.

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 10 2025 - Feb 28 2026
Add to Calendar

Trapping

Currently in Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 11 2024 - Feb 28 2025
Either Sex
Add to Calendar
One-half hour before sunrise Nov. 11, 2024 - Feb. 28, 2025.

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 10 2025 - Feb 28 2026
Add to Calendar

Trout Fishing

 print

Catch and Release

Currently in Season

Location:
Designated Streams
Season Dates:
Oct 1 2024 - Mar 31 2025
Add to Calendar
Some exceptions apply. Please check the current Kentucky Fishing and Boating Guide for more information.

Upcoming Season

Location:
Designated Streams
Season Dates:
Oct 1 2025 - Mar 31 2026
Add to Calendar
Some exceptions apply. Please check the current Kentucky Fishing and Boating Guide for more information.

Turkey-Fall

 print

Two (2) turkeys per season:

  • One (1) turkey may have a beard length of three (3) inches or longer.
  • One (1) turkey with no visible beard or a beard shorter than three (3) inches.
  • One (1) turkey may be taken per day.
  • No more than one (1) bird may be taken per day.

License and permit needed:


Younger than 12:

  • License and permit exempt

Youth 12-15:

  • Annual youth hunting license*
  • Youth turkey permit*

*Included in Youth Sportsman's License


Ages 16 and older:

  • Annual hunting license**
  • Fall Turkey Permit**

**Included in Sportsman's and Disability/Senior License


For more information, click exemptions and requirements or check our current Hunting Guide. Buy or renew your license here.



Archery

Currently in Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Sep 7 2024 - Jan 20 2025
Either Sex
Add to Calendar

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Sep 6 2025 - Jan 19 2026
Add to Calendar

Crossbow

Currently in Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 9 2024 - Dec 31 2024
Either Sex
Add to Calendar

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Oct 1 2025 - Oct 19 2025
Add to Calendar

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 8 2025 - Dec 31 2025
Add to Calendar

Shotgun

Past Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Dec 7 2024 - Dec 13 2024
Either Sex
Add to Calendar

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Oct 25 2025 - Oct 31 2025
Add to Calendar

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Dec 6 2025 - Dec 12 2025
Add to Calendar

Weasel

 print

Hunting License needed:


Younger than 12:

  • License exempt

Youth 12-15:

  • Annual youth hunting license*

*Included in Youth Sportsman's License


Ages 16 and older:

  • Day (1 or 7 day) hunting license or annual hunting license**

**Included in Sportsman's and Disability/Senior License


Trapping License needed:


Younger than 12:

  • License exempt

Youth 12-15:

  • Youth trapping license

Ages 16 and older:

  • Trapping license

For more information, click exemptions and requirements or check our current Hunting Guide. Buy or renew your license here.



Hunting

Currently in Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 11 2024 - Feb 28 2025
Either Sex
Add to Calendar
One-half hour before sunrise Nov. 11, 2024 - Feb. 28, 2025.

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 10 2025 - Feb 28 2026
Add to Calendar
One-half hour before sunrise Nov. 10, 2025 - Feb. 28, 2026.

Trapping

Currently in Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 11 2024 - Feb 28 2025
Either Sex
Add to Calendar
One-half hour before sunrise Nov. 11, 2024 - Feb. 28, 2025.

Upcoming Season

Location:
Statewide
Season Dates:
Nov 10 2025 - Feb 28 2026
Add to Calendar
One-half hour before sunrise Nov. 10, 2025 - Feb. 28, 2026.

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