Kentucky Deer Season 2026-27
Open nowKentucky's deer season opens 2026-09-05 and closes 2027-01-18. Dates, permits, or availability vary by unit, hunt, or regulation; check the official source before hunting.
Last verified September 25, 2026Kentucky wildlife agency
Zones & dates
- Open now
Statewide
Archery
- Opens
- September 5, 2026
- Closes
- January 18, 2027
- Bag limit
- Crossbow Sep 19, 2026-Jan 18, 2027
- Opens in 13 days
Statewide
Youth-only firearms
- Opens
- October 10, 2026
- Closes
- October 18, 2026
- Bag limit
- Free youth weekend Dec 26-27, 2026
- Opens in 20 days
Statewide
Early muzzleloader
- Opens
- October 17, 2026
- Closes
- October 18, 2026
- Bag limit
- See official regulations for bag limits.
- Opens in 48 days
Statewide
Modern firearms
- Opens
- November 14, 2026
- Closes
- November 29, 2026
- Bag limit
- Season length may vary by deer zone
- Opens in 76 days
Statewide
Late muzzleloader
- Opens
- December 12, 2026
- Closes
- December 20, 2026
- Bag limit
- See official regulations for bag limits.
Key rules
- Dates and units
- Use the zone or region shown for your hunt. Dates may vary by unit, hunt number, permit, or local closure.
- Official regulations
- Confirm license, permit, legal shooting hours, bag limits, and special requirements with the state agency before hunting.
- Important warning
- This listing includes dates that vary by unit, draw, permit, or regulation. The official source controls.
Frequently asked questions
Kentucky's deer season opens 2026-09-05 and closes 2027-01-18. Dates, permits, or availability vary by unit, hunt, or regulation; check the official source before hunting.
Regulations change every year and can vary by county or unit. Hunting Season by State is a reference tool, not a substitute for the official regulation book — always verify dates, zones, and bag limits with the state wildlife agency before you hunt.