Kentucky’s Modern Gun Deer Season Opens Saturday

Deer hunters have been afield since September with the opening of archery and crossbow seasons, but Kentucky’s biggest hunting event of the year — modern gun deer season — opens Saturday and runs through Nov. 23.

According to the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources (KDFWR), the state is home to a thriving herd of white-tailed deer, providing hunters with plentiful opportunities and a sustainable source of lean, local protein. Nearly 150,000 deer were harvested in Kentucky last year, with modern gun season accounting for the majority. The annual harvest contributes to an abundance of free-range, locally sourced wild venison for Kentucky tables.

KDFWR offers a wide range of resources for both new and experienced hunters. Information on public hunting lands, season dates, licensing requirements, and more can be found online at fw.ky.gov by searching “Deer Hunting.” Hunters can also access the 2025-2026 Fall Hunting and Trapping Guide online, which may be downloaded or printed for use in the field.

A new tool this year, the Kentucky Deer & Elk App, provides mobile assistance to hunters. The app allows users to view public land boundaries, find local processors and taxidermists, keep a digital copy of their license, and access county-specific hunting information. It is available as a free download from both the Apple App Store and Google Play.

Hunting licenses and permits may be purchased online through the KDFWR website or from authorized license agents across the state. Licenses are available for residents and non-residents, as well as youth and senior/disabled hunters. All hunters must also obtain a statewide or youth deer permit. For a complete list of season dates, license requirements, and regulations, visit the Deer Hunting section of fw.ky.gov or review the hunting and trapping guide.

Hunters born in 1975 or later must show proof of hunter education certification. Those who have not yet completed certification may obtain a free one-year exemption permit, allowing them to hunt under the supervision of a certified adult or someone born before 1975. Additional information can be found on the Hunter Education page of the department’s website.