Unlock the Great Outdoors
Why limit yourself to public land when there are millions of acres of private land to explore.
Hunting in Georgia
Georgia Hunting at Glance
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.
Key Insights
- Hunting licenses are required for both small game and big game hunters over 16 years old or born after Jan 1st 1961 regardless of age by the state of Georgia.
- Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) designated by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) offer plenty of segregated public land areas across the State where avid hunters can pursue their desired species during open seasons.
- The primary species to hunt small game in Georgia include deer, turkey, wild hog, squirrel, quail and rabbits.
- Big game species that can be hunted in Georgia are black bear, bobcat, fox, raccoon, opossum, coyote and deer.
- Shotguns using shot or slugs are mainly used for hunting small game whereas rifles or handguns using centerfire ammunition are approved for big game hunting in the state of Georgia.
Table of Contents
Hunters (Based on Hunting Licenses)
| 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.
Land Types (Acres)
| 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.
Georgia Hunting Seasons & Requirements
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.
Georgia DNR
2070 U.S. Hwy. 278, S.E.
Social Circle, GA 30025
- (770) 918-6400
Popular Game to Hunt in Georgia
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.
Small Game Hunting in Georgia
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.
Big Game Hunting in Georgia
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.
Unlock the profits in your land
The hassle free way to monetize your acreage.
Where are the Best Areas to Hunt in Georgia
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.
Unlock the Great Outdoors
We’re working with landowners all across Georgia to provide private land access for more activities. Add your information below to stay up to date.
Popular Public Hunting Land in Georgia
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
Hunting Private Land in Georgia
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.