Ohio Muzzleloader Deer Season 2026-27
Opens in 97 daysOhio's muzzleloader deer season runs January 2–5, 2027.
Zones & dates
- Opens in 97 days
Statewide
Muzzleloader
- Opens
- January 2, 2027
- Closes
- January 5, 2027
- Bag limit
- See official regulations for bag limits.
Legal equipment
Ohio's muzzleloader season is restricted to single-shot, front-loading muzzleloading firearms. Ignition type (flintlock vs. percussion/inline), sight and optic allowances, and any minimum caliber requirements are set by the wildlife agency and can differ from the archery or firearm seasons. Confirm current equipment rules with Ohio's wildlife agency before you hunt.
Tags and antlerless rules during muzzleloader season
Tag allowances and antlerless-only windows vary by zone and by segment within Ohio's deer season — some of the dates in the table above are antlerless-only, while others allow either sex. Review each zone row for its specific rules, and confirm current tag limits, antler-point restrictions, and any special antlerless permits required for the muzzleloader season with Ohio's wildlife agency.
How muzzleloader overlaps other seasons
Ohio's four-day muzzleloader season (January 2–5) falls near the very end of the archery season, roughly a month after gun season's bonus weekend closes.
What changed for 2026-27
Season dates are set annually by Ohio's wildlife agency and can shift from year to year based on herd surveys, weather, and management goals. The dates above reflect the official 2026–27 season as published by the Ohio wildlife agency; check the source link above for any addenda issued after publication, and always reverify before you hunt.
Frequently asked questions
January 2–5, 2027.
Nearby states
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.