Ohio

Check out the latest deer-hunting info for Ohio. Image by Steve Jamsa

Season Dates (2026):

Bow season is Sept. 26 to Feb. 7. Youth weekend is Nov. 21 and 22. Gun season is Nov. 30 through Dec. 6, and Dec. 19-20. Muzzleloader season is Jan. 2-5. Please check the OHIO DNR WEBSITE to confirm.

The Grade: A

As far as Antler Nation grading criteria are concerned, Ohio is arguably the best state in the country. It has solid deer densities and consistently big bucks. With OTC licenses and approximately 1,160,000 acres of public land, hunters can find opportunities. Hunting pressure varies from moderate to heavy depending on the season and region.

Monster bucks have caught the attention of traveling hunters, and now finding isolation from hunting pressure is increasingly difficult. Several counties along the Ohio River were heavily plagued by EHD in 2025. But that doesn’t deter us from giving it the coveted A for yet another deer season, and that’s because the Buckeye State continues to be a top Rack Report producer.

Antler Nation Knowledge:

The entire state enjoys good genetics, habitat, and soil. Ohio cranks out Booner bucks like few other places. Still, looking solely at data from the past decade, there are several winners. Adams, Butler, Coshocton, Franklin, Highland, Licking, Muskingum, and Summit counties take most of the top spots. You also can’t go wrong with other counties in the state’s southern half, though the EHD-affected counties will be rebounding for years to come.

In recent years, Ohio has put into effect public-land restrictions meant to increase the buck age structure. Some national forests, natural areas, preserves, state parks and other areas are OPEN TO HUNTING. The state has many large tracts of land that are open to the public. Some of these require a permit, though. Check specific regulations for individual hunt areas. Hunters should also consider applying for controlled hunts. These hunts are held on Ohio Division of Wildlife properties, parks and watercraft areas, natural areas, and some preserves.

If you decide to hunt public land, just know this can be unforgiving terrain. Most of this country is rugged and hilly, and it takes endurance and sweat to reach some of the best spots on public ground. But it’s worth it. There are giant whitetails living in the hills of Ohio, and they aren’t in short supply. Be sure to track Ohio’s current EHD happenings right here.