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Deer Hunting Guide

Deer hunting in Ohio now offers one of the state’s longest hunting seasons (October through January), and provides millions of hours of recreation and hundreds of tons of venison. Ohio hunters utilize many methods available to hunt deer: bows and crossbows, muzzleloaders, handguns, and shotguns.

• Photos: Share your hunting photos | View photos
• Ohio deer hunting regulations, zones, and limits
• Field dressing deer | Buy hunting licenses online
• More season dates and bag limits

2007 Deer Seasons	Opening Date	Closing Date
Archery Season	Sept. 29	Feb 3, 2008
Early Muzzleloader Season	Oct. 22	Oct. 27
Youth Gun Season: Statewide Season Antlered or antlerless deer	Nov. 17	Nov. 18
Gun Season: Statewide Season	Nov. 26	Dec. 2
Gun Season: Antlered or antlerless deer	Dec. 15	Dec. 16
Statewide Muzzleloader Season Antlered or antlerless deer	Dec. 27	Dec. 30

> More season dates and bag limits

Where to hunt in Southwest Ohio

Bott Wildlife Area Caesar Creek Lake Wildlife Area Darke Wildlife Area East Fork Wildlife Area Fallsville Wildlife Area Indian Creek Wildlife Area

Mercer Wildlife Area Oldaker Wildlife Area Paintcreek Wildlife Area Rush Run Wildlife Area Tranquility Wildlife Area Woodland Trails Wildlife Area

10 COMMANDMENTS OF GUN HUNTING

1. Keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction at all times.

2. Treat every gun as if it is loaded.

3. Always be sure of your target and beyond.

4. Keep your finger off the trigger until ready to fire.

5. Unload guns when not in use.

6. Store guns and ammo separately.

7. Be sure barrel and action are clear of obstructions.

8. Never carry a loaded gun while climbing a fence or tree, crossing a stream or ditch or while riding in a vehicle or boat.

9. Never shoot at a flat, hard surface or water.

10. Never use alcohol or drugs while handling a firearm.