By Blake Jackson
The Pennsylvania Board of Game Commissioners has officially approved the 2026-27 hunting and trapping seasons along with updated bag limits, introducing several changes aimed at improving hunter opportunities and wildlife management.
One of the most notable updates is the broader inclusion of Sunday hunting. Most seasons will now include Sundays within their scheduled dates, and many that previously ended on Saturdays will extend through Sunday, offering additional days in the field.
An exception applies to migratory game birds, such as waterfowl, woodcock, and mourning doves. Sunday hunting will remain prohibited for these species due to hunter preferences and federal regulations.
Officials noted that if Sundays were added to migratory bird seasons, the change would be permanent, prompting a cautious approach for now.
Several species-specific updates were also approved. For wild turkeys, the spring gobbler bag limit has been reduced to one bird to maintain sustainable harvest levels.
However, Sunday hunting for spring turkey season will not begin until 2027. White-tailed deer seasons will see minor date adjustments to simplify scheduling and better align with management goals.
In response to increased human-bear interactions, archery bear seasons in certain Wildlife Management Units (WMUs) will be extended.
Elk hunting will also change, with the addition of a new early October firearms season to reduce crowding and enhance hunter experience, while the late-season hunt shifts further into January.
Small game seasons will remain open during deer season, and new opportunities have been approved for bobcat hunting and river otter trapping in select WMUs, based on population data.
The state will issue 1.469 million antlerless deer licenses, an increase from the previous year. Resident hunters are guaranteed one license if purchased before nonresident sales begin. Additional rounds of license sales will follow throughout the summer.
A total of 155 elk licenses will be available across four seasons. Applications open May 1, with updated zones and procedures requiring hunters to review changes before applying.
FAQs
- Will Sunday hunting be allowed in 2026-27?
Yes, for most species except migratory game birds.
- Why are migratory birds excluded from Sunday hunting?
Due to federal rules and hunter preference.
- What is the turkey bag limit for spring 2026?
Hunters can harvest one gobbler.
- How many antlerless deer licenses are available?
About 1.469 million licenses statewide.
- Are there new hunting opportunities this season?
Yes, including expanded bear seasons and new elk season dates.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-imagixian
Categories: Pennsylvania, Government & Policy