Pheasant hunting is allowed in certain parts of Georgia during specific seasons. Pheasants are not native to Georgia, but the Georgia Department of Natural Resources stocks pheasants in some areas to provide hunting opportunities. Here are some quick answers about pheasant hunting in Georgia:
Quick Answers
– Pheasant hunting is allowed in Georgia during designated seasons.
– The season runs from mid-November through the end of February each year.
– Pheasant hunting is only allowed on certain Wildlife Management Areas that are stocked with pheasants.
– A valid hunting license and wildlife management area permit are required.
– Daily and season bag limits apply for pheasants.
Pheasant Hunting Season in Georgia
The pheasant hunting season in Georgia typically runs from mid-November through the end of February each year. The exact dates vary annually, so it’s important to check the current hunting regulations for exact season dates before planning a pheasant hunt.
Here are the season dates for the past few years:
Year | Opening Date | Closing Date |
2022-2023 | November 12 | February 28 |
2021-2022 | November 13 | February 28 |
2020-2021 | November 14 | February 28 |
As you can see, the pheasant season typically opens in mid-November and runs through the end of February. The season tends to start on the second Saturday in November each year.
Where Can You Hunt Pheasants in Georgia?
Pheasant hunting in Georgia is limited to certain Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) that are stocked with pheasants by the Department of Natural Resources. Pheasant hunting is not allowed statewide or on private lands.
The following WMAs are stocked with pheasants and open to pheasant hunting during the season:
- Blanton Creek WMA
- Chickasawhatchee WMA
- Elmodel WMA
- Flat Creek PFA
- Joe Kurz WMA
- Ocmulgee WMA
These areas contain suitable pheasant habitat and are regularly stocked with pen-raised pheasants prior to and throughout the hunting season. The number of pheasants released varies by site and date.
Bag Limits for Pheasants in Georgia
Daily and season bag limits apply when pheasant hunting on Georgia WMAs. The daily bag limit is 2 male pheasants per person. The total season limit is 15 male pheasants per hunter.
Only male pheasants may be harvested, as females are needed to replenish populations. Pheasant hunting is limited to daytime hours only, from 30 minutes before official sunrise to 30 minutes after official sunset.
Pheasant Hunting Permit Requirements
All hunters pursuing pheasants in Georgia need a valid hunting license and a WMA stamp:
- Hunting License – Resident or non-resident annual hunting license valid in Georgia.
- WMA Stamp – Available for $19 annually. Required for all hunters age 16+ on WMAs.
A state migratory bird stamp is also required for pheasant hunters ages 16 to 61. All normal regulations and hunter education requirements apply even though pheasants are pen-raised birds. Daily check-in and harvest record reporting are required on some WMAs when hunting pheasants.
Interesting Facts About Pheasant Hunting in Georgia
Here are some additional interesting tidbits about pheasant hunting opportunities in Georgia:
- The season is relatively short compared to many other states.
- Hunter participation is limited through a quota permit drawing on some WMAs.
- The bag limit is conservative to allow more hunters to participate.
- Special youth pheasant hunts are offered on specific dates.
- Pheasant populations often decline after the opening weekend.
- The best opportunity is typically early in the season before stocks are depleted.
Tips for Pheasant Hunting in Georgia
If you plan to go pheasant hunting in Georgia, here are some useful tips to increase your odds of success:
- Scout the WMA beforehand to find areas of good cover.
- Use a well-trained bird dog to help flush pheasants.
- Focus on openings in heavy cover where pheasants gather.
- Aim to hunt early mornings when pheasants are most active.
- Bring extra shotgun shells and be prepared for quick shots.
- Wear blaze orange for visibility and safety.
- Be a courteous hunter and sportsman when around others.
Conclusion
In summary, pheasant hunting opportunities in Georgia are limited but can provide excitement for small game hunters. The best chances occur in November and December on specific WMAs stocked with pen-raised pheasant. A hunting license, WMA stamp, and understanding of the regulations is required. With some pre-planning and preparation, Georgia’s short pheasant hunting season offers a unique wingshooting experience compared to more prolific pheasant states.