Hunting Seasons for Base Camp Leasing States: 2025-2026

By: Lara Herboldsheimer

As the 2025–2026 hunting season approaches, hunters across the country are gearing up for a fresh round of adventure, skill, and tradition. Whether you're after deer in the woods, turkey in the fields, or ducks on the water, understanding the seasonal dates and preparing properly is key to a successful and ethical hunt.

To be a responsible hunter, you must understand why hunting seasons and regulations vary by state and species. State wildlife agencies, such as the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) or Fish & Wildlife, establish these dates and regulations using scientific data. This data considers the animal's breeding cycle, population size, and migration patterns.

For instance, many deer seasons are set to coincide with the "rut," or the mating season, when deer are more active and less cautious. This provides hunters with a greater opportunity for a successful harvest. In contrast, hunting during spring and early summer is generally prohibited to protect fawns while they are young and dependent on their mothers.

Likewise, waterfowl hunting seasons align with migratory flyways and bird abundance, ensuring that harvesting occurs when populations are at their peak. These regulations are not random; they are the foundation of modern wildlife management and are designed to ensure the long-term health and sustainability of game populations.

Each state's unique geography, climate, and wildlife populations mean that hunting seasons can vary dramatically. What's open in one state might be closed in another, and even within a single state, different zones may have different dates. For instance, a northern state with a colder climate might have a deer season that starts earlier in the fall to take advantage of favorable weather, while a southern state might have a season that extends later into the winter. This localized approach to wildlife management ensures that regulations are tailored to specific ecological needs. For migratory birds like waterfowl, federal and international treaties also play a role, as these birds travel across state and national borders. Hunters must be diligent in checking the specific regulations for the area they plan to hunt, including what type of weapon is allowed (archery, muzzleloader, or firearm), as these seasons are often staggered to manage hunter pressure and provide diverse opportunities.

Below, you’ll find a comprehensive hunting calendar for all Base Camp Leasing states covering deer & turkey August 2025 through March 2026. But before you dive into dates and locations, here are essential tips to make this season safe, productive, and memorable.

Know your state's hunting season dates and regulations—Plan Ahead Hunting season dates can vary significantly not just between states, but also between zones or regions and regulations within a state. Some deer seasons begin in late summer with archery, while others don’t kick off until November. Turkey and deer seasons may overlap, and understanding the structure can help maximize your opportunities.

Use the state by state information below as a reference, but always check your state wildlife agency’s official regulations for updates, tags, and special requirements.

STATES

Frequently asked questions