HUNTING GEORGIA

Georgia A Great Place to Hunt

The topography of Georgia is varied, with a mix of mountainous and coastal plains. The terrain ranges from low-lying floodplains in the state’s central portion to rugged elevations along its northern borders. Georgia’s most significant geographic feature is the Appalachian Mountains, which run through north Georgia and form part of the border with North Carolina. Other notable mountain ranges include the Blue Ridge, Bunion, and Pine Mountain ranges in the north-central portion of the state. Georgia also features several long barrier islands and hundreds of smaller coastal plains along its coast. The largest of these barrier islands is St. Simons Island, located just off the coast of Brunswick.

The state’s highest point is Brasstown Bald, located in the Appalachian Mountains in northeast Georgia. At 4,784 feet (1,458 meters), it is the tallest mountain peak in the state. Georgia’s lowest point is at its coastline, where the Altamaha River meets the Atlantic Ocean. Due to its geographical makeup, Georgia’s climate varies widely from region to region. The northern portion of the state generally receives more rain than the south, and much of that precipitation comes in snow during the winter months.

The majority of the state experiences a humid subtropical climate, marked by hot and humid summers. Summers are generally hot and humid at all elevations except the highest ones. Therefore, Georgia’s climate is classified as humid subtropical. The state receives moderate to heavy rainfall, ranging from 143 millimeters in the center of Georgia to approximately 1905 millimeters around northeast Georgia.

Georgia is home to a diverse range of plants and animals, many prized as game animals by hunters. In terms of flora, Georgia is known for its vast array of Magnolia trees and its dogwood and oak trees. The state is also home to various wildflowers, including the world-famous Cherokee rose. Georgia offers a wide variety of hunting opportunities, from the big game such as deer and bear to small game such as squirrels and rabbits. In addition, bird hunters can pursue a wide range of species, including geese, doves, grouse, and quail.

Big Game Hunting

If you are interested in hunting big game animals in Georgia, it is vital to be familiar with the different types of seasons and the regulations that apply to each. You should also ensure you have the proper licenses and permits before heading out into the woods.

 

  • Whitetail Deer

The white-tailed deer is the most famous big game animal in Georgia. The season for hunting deer begins in September and lasts until January. To hunt deer, you will need a valid hunting license and a big game tag.

Whitetail deer can be found across Georgia, from the mountains to the coast, dwelling in oak and hickory woodlands, farmlands, suburbs, pine forests, and marshes.

More Does may be taken due to the high population of deer in the state, as their removal has a more significant impact on maintaining carrying capacity.

 

  • Bears

In Georgia, the black bear population has recovered to about 5,100 currently.

The black bear is a native inhabitant of Georgia. However, it may range over the entire state in search of food or territory from time to time. Bear populations exist in the north Georgia mountains along the Ocmulgee River drainage in central Georgia and in/around the Okefenokee Swamp in southeast Georgia.

Bears tend to live in wooded areas and prefer mature hardwood-pine forests with a lot of natural food and younger forests that provide security and a variety of fruit. In Georgia, bears use hollow trees, dugouts in the ground, brush heaps, rock nooks, or other fortifications as winter dens.

Big Game Hunting Weapons

Archery Equipment


Hunting with compound bows and crossbows, longbows, and recurve bows, is allowed. Broadhead arrows are necessary for hunting deer and bear. There is no controlled limit for draw weight, arrow length, and sights.

Primitive Weapons


During primitive weapons season, air bows, .30-cal. or larger air rifles, and muzzleloaders or muzzleloading shotguns are allowed. Scopes are permissible.

Firearms

Modern Rifles and Handguns:

Centrefire chambered in .22 cal or larger, with expanding bullets are legal. Rifles have no limit on magazine capacity.

Shotguns:

20 gauge or larger shotgun shells containing either slugs or buckshot.

Muzzleloaders:

Muzzleloaders having .30-cal. or bigger or muzzleloading shotguns with 20 gauge or larger barrels are permitted. Scopes are permissible.

Air Guns:

 During the primitive weapons and firearms seasons, any air rifle with a minimum of .30caliber or air bow using compressed gas or air is lawful.

Small Game Hunting

Bobwhite Quail

 

  • Georgia has been recognized as a top quail-hunting destination for over a century. The bobwhite quail was designated the State Gamebird by the Georgia General Assembly in 1970.
  • They require a mosaic distribution of briar and shrub thickets and clumped native warm-season grasses. Oak and pine forests account for a significant portion of the bobwhite’s geographic range in Georgia.

Mourning Dove

  • The most popular and numerous game bird in Georgia is the dove. It is hunted by more Georgians than any other game species, except for deer, and the dove harvest is the greatest of any species in the state.
  • The mourning dove is a common inhabitant of Georgia and is found throughout the state.

Ruffed Grouse

  • Although the ruffed grouse is most frequently seen in northern Georgia, they have been recorded as far south as Clarke County and west as Floyd County.
  • In Georgia, hunting opportunities are best in mountainous regions above 1,000 feet in elevation. 
  • The grouse is a forest dweller. Early-stage hardwood forest and some mature mast trees provide the ideal habitat.

Rabbits

  • Four species of rabbits live in Georgia, of which Eastern Cottontail is the most common. Cottontails may be found in every corner of the state. Their habitat includes upland regions near agricultural fields, pine forests, and brushy areas.

Swamp Rabbit

  • The largest rabbit in Georgia and occurs mainly in the Piedmont region. Swamp rabbits are found near water and wetlands, such as beaver ponds, floodplains, canebrakes, bottomland hardwood, and creeks in Piedmont.

Marsh Rabbit

  • The smallest rabbit in Georgia is the Marsh Rabbit. This species is the most frequently seen along coastal river systems and the Coastal Plain’s open marshes. It ranges from the Upper Coastal Plain to the coastline. Marsh rabbits are often called marsh rabbits because they live in marshes, swamps, and hammocks.

Appalachian Cottontail

  • The Appalachian Cottontail is a high mountain species. The Appalachian cottontail’s range is concentrated in the Northern End of Georgia. It can mostly be found in Rabun, Fannin, Towns, and Union counties in high rough mountain terrain with brushy areas interspersed with open forests.

Squirrels

Eastern Gray Squirrel

This squirrel is found state-wide. They are associated with mostly hardwood forests containing oaks and hickories in rural Georgia. In urban environments, gray squirrels can be observed and can be found in parks and  most neighborhoods.

Eastern Fox Squirrel

This squirrel is found state-wide with Sporadic distribution. Fox squirrels appear especially prevalent in vast mature Piedmont and Coastal Plain pine forests.

Small Game Hunting Weapons

Archery Equipment

Longbows, recurves, compound bows, and crossbows are all permitted for small game hunting.

Firearms

– Rifles and Handguns: Any air rifle, rimfire weapon, or muzzleloading gun with a caliber of less than .22 is legal. Rifles are not limited by magazine capacity.

– Shotguns: Shotshells with a length of 3.5 inches or less and no greater than No. 2 shot are legal.

Native Species

Whitetail Deer

weights range from 70 to 250lbs. Whitetail deer are known as “generalist” animals, as they can survive in a wide range of conditions and different habitats.

Bears live an average of 8 to 15 years. Adult bears can reach a length of up to 6 feet and a height of about 3 feet at the shoulder. Adult males may weigh as much as 500 pounds, whereas females can weigh up to 300 pounds. Bears are omnivores, meaning they will eat a broad range of foods, mainly grasses, berries, fruits, acorns, animal matter, and animals such as deer.

Bobwhites are small, ground-dwelling birds that look similar to chickens. They are 6-7 inches tall and weigh around 6 ounces. The males have a white stripe above their eyes, while the females have cream or buff stripes on their heads. The typical yearly bobwhite diet consists of seeds, fruits, and green plants.

Mourning Dove belongs to the pigeon family. It has a tiny head and a long-pointed tail. They are about 11-13 inches long. Adults are slate gray in color and have prominent white spots on the tail. Adult males have a light blue crown and nape, merging to a reddish fawn tone on their flanks. Females generally feature a tan or brown crown, nape, and breast feathers.

Doves feed on seeds from a variety of cultivated plants like wheat, oats, peanuts, rye, etc., and wild plants like ragweed, crabgrass, partridge pea, etc.

Ruffed grouse has a ruff of black feathers on its neck that are frequently observed in males. In addition, males generally have longer tails and a more distinct neck ruff than females. They prefer to live in brushy or second-growth wood, shrubs, and forested edge lines. Ruffed grouse have a broad diet that includes both plant and animal matter. However, their food of choice are plants.

Rabbit

Four species of rabbits are found. 

Eastern Cottontail has dark brown to gray fur coat with a white underside and tail. There is usually a white spot on its crown. Adults weigh 2-4 pounds and are 14-17 inches long from head to tail.

Swamp Rabbit

has a white underside and black to dense brown fur. Adults are 14-17 inches long and weigh 3.5-6 pounds.

Marsh Rabbit.

Marsh rabbits are most frequently seen along coastal river systems and the Coastal Plain’s open marshes. It ranges from the Upper Coastal Plain to the coastline. Marsh rabbits are often called marsh rabbits because they live in marshes, swamps, and hammocks.

Appalachian Cottontail

The Appalachian Cottontail is a high mountain species. The Appalachian cottontail’s range is concentrated in the Northern End of Georgia. It can mostly be found in Rabun, Fannin, Towns, and Union counties in high rough mountain terrain with brushy areas interspersed with open forests.

Squirrels

Eastern Gray Squirrel is found state-wide. They are associated with mostly hardwood forests containing oaks and hickories in rural Georgia. In urban environments, gray squirrels can be observed and can be found in parks and  most neighborhoods.

Eastern Fox Squirrel is found state-wide with Sporadic distribution. Fox squirrels appear especially prevalent in vast mature Piedmont and Coastal Plain pine forests.

Public Lands

With roughly 1.7 million acres of public lands in Georgia – including state parks, wildlife management areas, and natural areas – there are plenty of opportunities to get outside and enjoy all that the state has to offer.

Wildlife Management Areas

There are more than 100 Wildlife Management Areas in Georgia, totaling nearly 1 million acres. These areas are managed by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources to conserve and enhance the state’s fish and wildlife resources. Many WMAs also offer opportunities for public recreation, such as hunting, fishing, bird watching, hiking, biking, horseback riding, or simply enjoying a scenic drive.

Alapaha River WMA

The Alapaha River WMA is 6870 acres of the area consisting of floodplain forests, swamp forests, and wet prairies. There are also several ponds and lakes on the property. This is a popular area for hunting, fishing, and bird watching. Hunting is allowed based on a Quota system where only a predetermined number of hunters can participate.

Alexander WMA is located in the coastal plain and encompasses 1,300 acres of state-owned land. This WMA includes a variety of habitats where you may hunt deer, small game, and turkey. There is a bird dog training area. This beautiful property offers outdoor recreational activities like Geocaching and wildlife viewing.

Arrowhead WMA is a 338-acre property in Floyd County. It consists of mature forests of mixed pine-hardwood with lakes and well-managed waterfowl impoundments. The lake is used to attract youngsters, while the former fish hatchery ponds provide a wetland habitat. There is an education center not for the general public, but you can enjoy nature and hiking trails. You can go picnicking and fishing with family and friends or just relax by the lake.

Berry College WMA

Floyd County’s Berry College WMA is a 15,609-acre property offering hunting for deer, bear, small game, turkey, and dove. However, on the Berry College Refuge, weapons and archery equipment are not allowed. You can enjoy hiking, biking, and horseback riding on the fantastic hiking trails, bike trails, and equestrian trails. Quota hunts and specialty hunts are available, and no night hunting is allowed.

Beaverdam WMA provides a variety of outdoor experiences, from hunting to camping. Deer, turkey, and the small game may all be pursued on the premises. This location offers ideal conditions for all, with 5,500 acres of upland pine, mixed pine hardwoods, and bottomland hardwood forests. You can also practice shooting at the Beaverdam shooting range or enjoy hiking, canoeing, or river fishing.

Canoochee Sandhills WMA is a 6324-acre located in Bulloch and Bryan Counties. The WMA comprises a combination of sandhill, bay swamp, Flatwoods, and floodplain woods that border Lotts Creek. The region’s sandy uplands, which are remnants of former wind-blown river dune formations, provide essential habitats for gopher tortoises and other animal and plant species safeguarded for conservation. It is an excellent spot for hunting deer, turkey, and other small game, and blackwater creek fishing and viewing many protected species that inhabit the property.

Cedar Creek WMA is a 40000acres property owned by the United States Forest Service (USFS). Being one of Georgia’s oldest wildlife management areas, it was established in 1949 and is located on the Oconee National Forest in Putnam, Jones, and Jasper counties. The WMA provided excellent hunting opportunities along with specialty hunts. You will find dove fields, camping, and picnic sites. You can also practice shooting at the Cedar Creek Shooting Range at the property.

The Dawson Forest WMA is a 25500-acre land located in Dawson County offering hunting for bear, deer, turkey, small game, and waterfowl. The WMA consists of five tracts, including Goethe, Wildcat Creek, Amicalola, Burnt Mountain, and the City of Atlanta. The City of Atlanta owns 10,000 acres, while the DNR Wildlife Resources Division manages 15,000 acres. All year, access for handicapped people is available in the forest, offering hunting, fishing, and trail access possibilities. Horse and bicycle use requires a special permit.

Echeconnee Creek WMA covers 690 acres providing archery hunting opportunities for deer, turkey, and small game. Only by boat is it possible to access the Ocmulgee River tract. The property does not allow camping. Echeconnee Creek WMA comprises two separate tracts: Echeconnee Creek Tract (549 acres) and Ocmulgee River Tract (300 acres).

The Flat Tub WMA encompasses 7,141 acres of state-owned land. Approximately 5,641 acres are upland pine/hardwood forest, and 1,500 acres are hardwood drains and river bottomland. This WMA is open to hunting deer, turkey, squirrel, and waterfowl. You will require a Hunting License, Fishing License, or Lands Pass to access the land.

The Grand Bay WMA covers 2,623 acres of state-owned ground and 5,874 acres of land under US Air Force license. The WMA covers around 3,059 acres of upland pine and hardwood forest and 5,438 acres of cypress marshes. The property provides hunting for deer, turkey, small game, and waterfowl. The Grand Bay Wetland Education Center at Grand Bay offers visitors a chance to learn more about the wetland environment.

The Montezuma Bluffs WMA measures 500 acres and is located in Macon County, providing a quality buck and antlerless archery-only deer season and turkey and small game hunting. You can visit the Tallahatta Formation marine ecosystem, which dates 50 million years ago. Hikers are dazzled by most breath-taking displays of uncommon trillium, which grow beneath the branches of old-growth beech and magnolia trees in the spring. The observation decks offer birdwatchers a safe haven to observe hawks, woodpeckers, herons, and flocks of migratory species. 

Moody Forest WMA encompasses 2,700 acres of state-owned land and 1,732 acres owned by The Nature Conservancy. Longleaf pines 200–300 years old and mammoth tupelo cypress 604+ years old are among the oldest in the country. The WMA offers 5 miles of year-round hiking on two interpretive trails and the opportunity to discover endangered and uncommon species like gopher tortoises and Eastern indigo snakes.

Otting WMA is 669-acre land in Northwest Georgia, located in Chattooga County. The region is bifurcated by the East Fork of the Little River and nested on top of a plateau along Lookout Mountain Chain. It has an interspersion of upland mixed pine-hardwood forests, ancient pastures, and distinctive natural rock formations. Archery deer, turkey, and small game animals such as squirrels and rabbits are popular hunting targets. It is also used for furbearer dog training.

The Walton WMA is a 200-acre, state-owned facility that includes scattered agricultural fields, fallow fields, and wooded areas. The primary goal is to manage dove fields. Various crops such as millet wheat, millet, and sunflowers are planted each year to attract doves and other wildlife. There are also opportunities for archery deer hunting and different types of small game hunting. Only shotguns may be utilized for small game shooting.

The Zahnd WMA is a 1,387-acre Wildlife Management Area in Northwest Georgia’s Ridge and Valley ecoregion, located in Walker County and sharing a boundary with the adjacent Crockford-Pigeon Mountain WMA. Turkey, archery deer, and squirrel are among the most sought-after hunting animals. This site was formerly a state natural area and now includes various safeguarded plants and animals and beautiful rock formations popular for climbing.

Regulatory Agency

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) manages and conserves Georgia’s natural, wildlife, and cultural resources. This includes water resources, wildlife resources, and parks and recreation areas. 

The DNR has its headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia. It also has regional offices located throughout the state.

The Board of Natural Resources is a group of 19 members, each named the Governor and confirmed by the Georgia Senate. The Board is in charge of establishing rules and regulations regarding air and water quality, hunting seasons, and other concerns. In addition, it provides input on agency expenditure plans and legislative ideas. The DNR is led by a commissioner appointed by the Governor. 

The DNR is divided into several divisions, each with its specific focus.

1) Coastal Resources Division: This division manages the state’s coastal resources, including beaches, marshes, and estuaries. It also works to protect these resources from pollution and development. 

2) Environmental Protection Division: This division is responsible for protecting Georgia’s air, land, and water quality. It also regulates activities that could impact the environment, such as waste management and air and water quality control.

3) Wildlife Resources Division: This division manages the state’s wildlife populations and habitats. It also oversees hunting and fishing activities in the state.

4) Parks, Recreation & Historic Sites Division: This division manages Georgia’s state parks and historic sites. It also oversees outdoor recreation opportunities in the state.

5) Law Enforcement Division: This division is responsible for enforcing the state’s laws related to natural resources. This includes hunting, fishing, and boating regulations. 

 

The Georgia Natural Resources Foundation, established in 2010, is a non-profit organization funding projects, initiatives, and programs at the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. They rely on contributions and partnerships with people, businesses, and other similarly aligned foundations to assist them in their efforts.

Benefits of Coming to Hunt in Georgia

If you are looking for a great place to hunt, Georgia should be at the top of your list. The State offers a variety of benefits that make it an attractive destination for hunters from all over the country.

  • Georgia is home to some of the best whitetail deer hunting. The State is host to a large number of trophy bucks each year, and many hunters travel here specifically to pursue these big game animals. In addition to whitetail deer, Georgia also offers excellent hunting opportunities for other popular game animals such as bears, turkey, quail, dove, and hogs.
  • The State’s mild climate means hunters can pursue game year-round in Georgia.
  • Georgia offers a wide variety of hunting terrain, from the mountains to the coast, providing opportunities for both still-hunting and stalking.
  • Georgia has a long hunting tradition. Many families have passed down their love of the sport from generation to generation. Hunting is a great way to spend time with family and friends, and it can be a bonding experience.
  • Hunting is a great way to connect with nature, and it can be a very relaxing and enjoyable experience. In addition, the State is crisscrossed by a network of rivers and streams, providing plenty of opportunities for freshwater fishing and boating.
  • Georgia also offers several hunting seasons throughout the year. This gives hunters the opportunity to choose when they want to pursue based on their schedule. In addition, some seasons are better for certain types of game, so hunters can plan their hunts around the kind of game they want to pursue.
  • Georgia offers many different types of hunting experiences, from DIY hunts on public land to guided hunts on private land.
  • Georgia offers a variety of hunting opportunities for all levels of hunters. Beginner hunters can find several areas that provide hunts specifically designed for beginners. These areas often have lower game densities, making the quest more manageable. Experienced hunters can find many locations that offer challenging hunts for a variety of game.
  • Hunting is a great way to support conservation efforts in Georgia. Hunters help fund vital conservation work by purchasing hunting licenses and permits. They also play a vital role in controlling wildlife populations.
  • Hunting in Georgia allows you to experience the State’s beauty while also pursuing your favorite game Hunting in Georgia allows you to experience some of the best wildlife in the country and also provides an opportunity to experience some of the best scenery in the country. The State is home to various landscapes, including mountains, forests, and coastal areas.

Bottom Line

Georgia is an excellent choice for hunters due to its diverse wildlife, a large amount of public land, and strong hunting culture. 

The Peach State is home to various game species, including white-tailed deer, wild turkey, quail, doves, rabbits, and squirrels. Georgia’s landscapes vary from the mountains in the north to the coastal plains in the south, which provides hunters with a variety of different habitats to explore. The state also has a large amount of public land open to hunting, making it easy for hunters to find a place to hunt.

If you are interested in pursuing game animals in Georgia, several resources can help you plan your trip. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources is a great place to start. They provide information on permit requirements, hunting season dates, and regulations. They also offer a variety of tools to help you plan your trip and find the best hunting areas in the state.

There are a few things you should know. First, you will need to obtain a hunting license from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. You can do this by visiting their website or by calling them directly. You will also need to familiarize yourself with all the hunting regulations and laws for your particular hunting area. These vary from region to region in Georgia. Some of these regulations may include limits on the number and type of animals that you can hunt and restrictions on when certain kinds of animals can be pursued.

Once you have obtained your hunting license and familiarized yourself with the laws, it is time to get out there and start hunting!

With so much to offer, it is no wonder that Georgia is a popular destination for hunters and nature enthusiasts alike.

Whether you are an experienced hunter or a beginner looking to try something new, Georgia offers a wealth of opportunities to pursue your passion. With its diverse flora and fauna and its abundant hunting opportunities, Georgia is a great place to enjoy the outdoors.

Overall, hunting in Georgia provides many opportunities for hunters of all levels. The state offers a variety of game, landscapes, and hunting seasons to choose from. In addition, hunting in Georgia is a great way to experience some of the best wildlife and scenery in the country.

If you enjoy spending time outdoors in Georgia, there are many things to see and do. Whether you are interested in hunting or fishing or just want to explore the region’s diverse plant and animal life, you will find plenty of opportunities for adventure here. So, if you are looking for a place to get away from it all and enjoy some time in nature, be sure to check out Georgia. You will not be disappointed.