Ohio Celebrates National Hunting and Fishing Day on Saturday, September 28

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife encourages Ohio’s sportsmen and women to join millions of others nationwide in celebrating National Hunting and Fishing Day on Saturday, Sept. 28.

Ohioans have many options to get outside on National Hunting and Fishing Day and during the coming weeks. The annual white-tailed deer archery hunting season opens statewide on Saturday, Sept. 28, as does the youth and military waterfowl hunting weekend. Hunting seasons for squirrels and doves are already open.

The fall wild turkey hunting season, available in 70 counties, begins Oct. 1. Find more information in the 2024-25 Hunting and Trapping Regulations and purchase a hunting license or permit if necessary before your outing.

This year marks the 52nd National Hunting and Fishing Day, which took place first in 1972 by the National Shooting Sports Foundation. It is observed on the fourth Saturday in September each year. In recognition of the significance of hunting and fishing to many Ohioans, Governor Mike DeWine and Lt. Governor Jon Husted signed a proclamation for the day.

Nationwide, sales from hunting licenses and fishing licenses, as well as excise taxes on firearms, ammunition, archery equipment, and fishing equipment through the Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration programs, have contributed billions of dollars to wildlife conservation. These funds help states purchase and manage public lands.

“National Hunting and Fishing Day is a great time to reflect on the contributions of sportsmen and women to conservation,” said Division of Wildlife Chief Kendra Wecker. “These funds are invested in our state’s wildlife as well as in increased public hunting and fishing opportunities.”

Ohioans have many options to get outside on National Hunting and Fishing Day and during the coming weeks. The annual white-tailed deer archery hunting season opens statewide on Saturday, Sept. 28, as does the youth and military waterfowl hunting weekend. Hunting seasons for squirrels and doves are already open. The fall wild turkey hunting season, available in 70 counties, begins Oct. 1. Find more information in the 2024-25 Hunting and Trapping Regulations and purchase a hunting license or permit if necessary before your outing.

The fall is also a great time to enjoy Ohio’s fantastic fishing. Walleye and yellow perch fishing on Lake Erie is superb this time of year. On inland lakes and reservoirs, saugeye, smallmouth bass, and panfish are popular fall targets. Check the 2024-25 Fishing Regulations for details before you hit the water and renew your fishing license if needed.