Whether you’re an experienced hunter looking for a new challenge, or a beginner wanting to try hunting for the first time, Georgia is a great place to do it. With a variety of game to hunt and plenty of open space to do it in, Georgia has something for everyone.
Georgia has over a million deer throughout the state with the most popular habitat being the Piedmont and Upper Coastal Plain regions of the state.
For the more exotic, it’s estimated that more than 5,000 black bears live in the state and there are so many wild pigs that in most regions licensed hunters are allowed to kill an unlimited number. Alligator hunting is also an option in Georgia, though the application process is limited.
Georgia ranks #22 in the nation for hunting license per capita and has a strong hunting culture with over 6.8% of the population classified as registered hunters.
Population: | 10,711,908 |
---|---|
Hunters | 728,410 |
Hunter % | 6.80% |
Hunters Rank | 22 |
The state of Georgia is predominantly private land and only 3.28% of the total acres could be considred huntable public land. In fact, Georgia ranks #39 overall in acres of public huntable land.
Acres | % | Rank | |
---|---|---|---|
Total | 37,068,200 | ||
Huntable Public | 1,215,000 | 3.28% | 39 |
Private Land | 35,333,610 | 95.32% | 10 |
Tribal Land | 0 | 0.00% | no tribal land |
Georgia ranks #10 for the percentage of private land vs total acres and doesn’t have any tribal land.
For the most accurate information on Georgia Hunting Seasons, along with the state’s requirements for tag and bag limits, it’s a good idea to check with the Georgia DNR. We’ve provided their contact information below, along with links to helpful resources, including licensing.
2070 U.S. Hwy. 278, S.E.
Social Circle, GA 30025
Why limit yourself to public land when there are millions of acres of private land to explore.
The most common types of big game animals to hunt in Georgia are deer, bear, and hogs. For small game, popular choices include rabbits, squirrels, and quail.
According to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, the most popular small game animals to hunt in the state are squirrels, rabbits, dove, quail, and woodcock. Squirrel hunting is particularly popular in the fall, when the animals are busy gathering food for the winter months. Rabbits are hunted throughout the year, but they are most active in the springtime. Dove season typically runs from September to November, giving hunters a chance to take advantage of the birds’ migratory patterns. Quail hunting is often done in groups, as these birds tend to stick together in coveys. Woodcock season runs from October to November, and these birds are typically found in open areas near woods or thickets.
There are a variety of big game animals to hunt in Georgia, depending on what type of hunting you’re interested in. White-tailed deer are the most popular choice for many hunters, as they are relatively easy to find and provide a good amount of meat. For those looking for a real challenge, black bears and mountain lions can be found in certain parts of the state, though they are much more difficult to track down. Feral hogs are also becoming a popular target for many hunters, as they can be found in large numbers and provide a fair amount of sport.
The hassle free way to monetize your acreage.
Georgia offers great hunting opportunities across the state, both on public and private land. We’ve included some of the best areas for public hunting below and as we have access we’ll be adding more private land too.
Chattahoochee National Forest is the most popular place to hunt public land in Georgia. The forest offers a variety of game, including deer, turkey, squirrel, and quail. There are also opportunities to hunt hogs and bears. The Oconee National Forest is another popular hunting destination in Georgia. The forest offers a variety of game, including deer, turkey, squirrel, and quail. There are also opportunities to hunt hogs and coyotes. The Piedmont National Wildlife Refuge is another popular hunting destination in Georgia. The Refuge offers a variety of game, including deer, turkey, duck, and quail. There are also opportunities to hunt hogs and coyotes. The Rich Mountain Wildlife Management Area is another popular hunting destination in Georgia. The area offers a variety of game, including deer, turkey, bear, and quail. There are also opportunities to hunt hogs and coyotes. The Crockford-Pigeon Mountain Wildlife Management Area is another popular hunting destination in Georgia. The area offers a variety of game, including deer, turkey, bear, and quail. There are also opportunities to hunt hogs and coyotes
1. Chattahoochee National Forest
2. Oconee National Forest
3. Piedmont National Wildlife Refuge
4. Rich Mountain Wildlife Management Area
5. Crockford-Pigeon Mountain Wildlife Management Area
Since the majority of Georgia is private land getting access for hunting can be very appealing. When you hunt private land, it’s not only less crowded, the animals also tend to be less skittish and this means you’ll have a better day out in the field. Traditionally, accessing private land for hunting has been complicated and expensive. You either needed to join a club, hire a guide, or start knocking on doors.
Fortunately Wing It is simplifying this for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts of all types. We’re adding new land every day and if we have some in your area, you’ll see some options great below.