LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — Kentucky's fall hunting season is starting, with several opportunities for hunters across the state.
Squirrel season opened Aug. 15, but Sept. 1 marks the unofficial kickoff to fall, when dove season opens.
Over the next several months, hunters can target deer, turkey, black bear, elk, rabbits, quail and more.
Some key dates include:
- Squirrel: Aug. 15
- Dove: Sept. 1
- Deer archery: Sept. 5
- Black bear: Sept. 19
- Youth-only deer: October
- Deer modern firearms: November
Dove hunters have a few extra requirements. In addition to a valid Kentucky hunting license, they need a Kentucky Migratory Bird/Waterfowl permit and a Harvest Information Program confirmation number.
Kentucky hunters born after 1974 generally must complete a hunter education course, although residents hunting on their own property are exempt.
Kentucky Fish and Wildlife also recommends checking the latest hunting guides for season dates, bag limits, regulations, licensing requirements and public hunting areas.
Proposed regulation changes are still awaiting final review and could affect some seasons this fall.
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