Pennsylvania Deer Harvest Rises 6% in 2025–26 Season

By Blake Jackson

Pennsylvania hunters recorded a notable increase in deer harvests during the 2025-26 hunting seasons, according to estimates released by the Pennsylvania Game Commission.

The total harvest reached approximately 505,600 deer, up about 6% from the previous season’s estimate of 476,880.

Of the total, 185,310 were antlered deer, while 320,290 were antlerless. Both categories showed similar year-over-year growth of roughly 6%.

Compared to the most recent three-year average, however, antlered harvests rose by about 9%, while antlerless harvests increased by approximately 17%.

The higher antlerless harvest was intentional, explained David Stainbrook, Deer and Elk Section Supervisor. Management goals across many of the state’s 22 Wildlife Management Units focused on reducing deer populations to protect forest health and address the spread of Chronic Wasting Disease.

To support these efforts, the commission made more antlerless licenses available, giving hunters additional opportunities.

“Pennsylvania has a strong hunting heritage, one that brings hundreds of thousands of hunters together in groups large and small each fall and winter to enjoy days with family and friends. But this is about more than just fun and tradition," Game Commission Executive Director Steve Smith said.

"Deer are one species that can impact the composition of their own environment, with consequences not just for themselves, but for our forests and fields and all the other wildlife that habitat sustains. Hunters, by managing deer, buoy not only deer, but all our other natural resources. Their time afield is a commitment to stewardship that deserves our thanks.”

Data collection included hunter harvest reports and checks at processing facilities. Hunters reported over 150,000 deer, while staff examined more than 25,000 at processors.

Firearms season accounted for the largest share of the harvest, followed by archery and muzzleloader seasons, highlighting the continued importance of hunting in wildlife management efforts.

Photo Credit: pexels-jim-fawns