DO IT: Hunting

Hunting and Shooting: On Target in Georgia

Hunting is a big-time sport in Georgia. Throughout the state, you’ll find quail hunting plantations and
hunting lodges, often with horseback riding, skeet shooting, fishing, and hiking.

Hunting Licenses

Georgia resident hunters age 16 years old or older are required to have a hunting license, except when hunting on land owned by them or their immediate family, blood or dependent relationship, residing in the same household. A valid hunting license is required for all non-resident hunters, except non-resident small game hunters under age 16. Other licenses may be required depending on the type of game hunted.

Georgia hunting licenses are available throughout the state from approximately 400 license agents in many sporting goods stores, hardware stores, etc. Licenses also may be purchased in person at Department of Natural Resources' Law Enforcement offices statewide. And for the current hunting regulations, click here.

Target Practice

Several Georgia WMAs and state parks have shooting and/or archery ranges for you to practice your aim. Access to the WMA ranges requires either a Georgia hunting license or a WMA Lands Pass. State park archery ranges and 3-D archery trails generally require only the standard Georgia State Parks parking pass and a daily fee for use of the range.

Georgia has nearly 100 Wildlife Management Areas with approximately 1 million acres of public hunting lands. Nearly every part of the state has at least one WMA within a one-hour drive.

Hunting is also allowed on certain National Wildlife Reserves under specific conditions. For more information, click here.

Forest corporations own about 2.5 million acres of Georgia forestland. Most operate recreational access (hunting lease) programs as a formal part of their business model. Large providers specific to Georgia include CatchMark, Rayonier, Westervelt, and Weyerhaeuser. Their websites provide information on lands available for lease for hunting.

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) establishes hunting seasons and limits for various game animals, including when hunters can use bows, primitive weapons, firearms, or falconry. Regulated animals include deer, bear, turkey, squirrel, alligator, fox, bobcat, opossum, raccoon, rabbit, quail, grouse, crows, dove, woodcock, snipe, marsh hens, and waterfowl.

Residents and non-residents born on or after January 1, 1961 must successfully complete a hunter education course prior to purchasing a season hunting license. However, a hunter education course is not required to purchase an Apprentice License or a three (3) day Combo Hunting/Fishing License. Hunter education courses certified or mandated by any state wildlife agency or Canadian province are accepted. Hunter Education is not required to hunt on one’s own land or land of a parent or guardian.

Hunting is the backbone of wildlife conservation in the United States. Hunting license sales determine not only the amount of federal funds Georgia receives, but they also generate revenue that goes directly back into conservation. To continue its conservation mission, Georgia’s DNR has established programs to help pass the love of hunting on to the next generation. A mentoring program connects new hunters with experienced ones. Hunt & Learn programs help new hunters and their mentors to develop their outdoor skills. And the Field to Fork program recruits adults interested in learning to hunt for food.

For the current hunting regulations, click here.

  • City

  • Region

  • Reset

Hunting - Locations

Woods-n-Water Hunting and Fishing

Classic South
111 Industrial Dr.
Wrightsville, GA 31558
478-864-9108

icon-fishing.pngicon-huntingshooting.png

Featured Attractions

Georgia State Parks

The Georgia State Parks & Historic Sites Park Guide is a handy resource for planning a spring break, summer vacation or family reunion. The free booklet is filled with tips on the best hiking trails, fishing spots, cabins, wedding venues and campsites.
Visit Website