Oklahoma Hunting Seasons 2025-2026 – Dates, Licenses & Game Management Zones
Planning your next outdoor adventure in the Sooner State? You’ve come to the right place. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Oklahoma’s 2025-2026 game calendar, from deer archery opportunities to waterfowl schedules. Whether you’re a longtime Oklahoma resident or a visiting sportsman from neighboring states, we’ll walk you through the essential dates, permit requirements, and best hunting zones to make your next outing successful.
The Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation has released the complete schedule for the upcoming season, and there are some exciting opportunities waiting. From the early dove opener in September all the way through turkey season next spring, hunters will find plenty of chances to fill their tags. Let’s dive into the details so you can start planning your outdoor adventures.
📅 Quick Highlights
Before we get into the nitty-gritty details, here’s what every hunter should know about the 2025-2026 season:
Major Season Highlights:
- Free Hunting Days: September 6-7, 2025 (no license required for Oklahoma residents)
- Archery Season: October 1 – January 15 for most big game
- Youth Gun Season: October 17-19 for deer
- General Gun Season: November 22 – December 7 for deer
- Spring Turkey: April 16 – May 16, 2026
- Dove Season: September 1 – October 31, then December 1-29
Important Notes:
- New check-in requirements for non-residents on certain public areas
- Updated license fees took effect in 2024
- Youth hunters get expanded opportunities with the new Youth Annual Super License
Big Game Overview
Oklahoma’s big game opportunities remain strong for the 2025-2026 season. Here’s your complete breakdown for deer, elk, bear, and antelope:
| Species | Method | Season Dates | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deer & Elk | Archery | Oct 1 – Jan 15 | General season, statewide |
| Deer | Youth Gun | Oct 17 – 19 | Ages 17 and under only |
| Deer | Muzzleloader | Oct 25 – Nov 2 | Primitive weapons only |
| Deer | General Gun | Nov 22 – Dec 7 | Modern firearms allowed |
| Bear | Archery | Oct 1 – 19 | Limited zones only |
| Bear | Muzzleloader | Oct 25 – Nov 2 | Same zones as archery |
| Antelope | Special Hunts | Various dates | Controlled hunts only |
Bag Limits & Special Regulations:
- Deer bag limits vary by zone (typically 6 total, with antler restrictions)
- Elk hunting requires special permits through controlled hunt drawings
- Bear hunting is limited to specific southeastern counties
- All big game hunters must have appropriate licenses and tags
The extended archery season gives bowhunters over three months of opportunity, while gun hunters get concentrated seasons during peak movement periods. Don’t forget that youth hunters get their own exclusive weekend in mid-October before the general seasons open.
Turkey Dates
Turkey hunting in Oklahoma offers both fall and spring opportunities, with the spring season being the most popular:
| Season | Dates | Method | Bag Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall Archery | Oct 1 – Jan 15 | Archery only | 2 birds |
| Fall Gun | Nov 1 – Nov 21 | Shotgun/archery | 2 birds |
| Youth Spring | Apr 11, 2026 | All legal methods | 2 bearded birds |
| Spring General | Apr 16 – May 16 | All legal methods | 2 bearded birds |
Turkey Hunting Tips:
- Spring season focuses on bearded birds only
- Fall season allows harvest of either sex
- Youth get an exclusive day before the general spring opener
- Eastern and Rio Grande subspecies are both present statewide
The spring gobbler season coincides with peak breeding activity, making it the premier time to call in a tom. Fall turkey hunting can be more challenging but offers opportunities to harvest birds of either sex.
Furbearer Opportunities
Oklahoma’s furbearer seasons provide year-round opportunities for some species:
| Species | Season Dates | Method | License Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coyote | Year-round | All legal methods | Hunting license |
| Bobcat | Dec 1 – Feb 28 | Hunting/trapping | Fur license |
| Raccoon | Oct 1 – Mar 15 | Hunting/trapping | Fur license |
| Beaver | Year-round | Trapping only | Trapping license |
| Fox (Red/Gray) | Dec 1 – Feb 28 | Hunting/trapping | Fur license |
| Opossum | Dec 1 – Feb 28 | Hunting/trapping | Fur license |
Trapping Regulations:
- Fur license required for most species except coyote
- Trapping licenses available separately from hunting licenses
- Check restrictions may apply on public lands
- Pelt sealing requirements for certain species
Coyote hunting remains one of the most popular year-round activities, with no closed season and liberal bag limits. Predator calling can be especially productive during winter months.
Small Game Section
Small game hunting provides excellent opportunities for new hunters and those looking for fast-paced action:
| Species | Season Dates | Daily Bag Limit | Possession Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dove | Sep 1 – Oct 31, Dec 1 – Dec 29 | 15 | 45 |
| Quail | Nov 8 – Feb 15 | 10 | 30 |
| Rabbit | Oct 1 – Mar 15 | 6 | 18 |
| Squirrel | May 15 – Feb 28 | 6 | 18 |
| Pheasant | Dec 1 – Jan 31 | 3 roosters | 9 |
| Crow | Oct 10 – Nov 16, Dec 9 – Mar 4 | No limit | No limit |
Small Game Highlights:
- Dove season split allows hunters two separate opportunities
- Squirrel season runs nearly year-round (closed March-May)
- Rabbit season extends through winter months
- Quail populations have been recovering in recent years
The September dove opener traditionally kicks off the hunting season in Oklahoma. Public wildlife management areas often provide excellent small game opportunities, especially for dove and quail.
Complete Waterfowl Seasons
Waterfowl hunting in Oklahoma follows federal frameworks with some state-specific regulations:
| Species | Season Dates | Daily Bag | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ducks (General) | Oct 4 – Jan 7 (Panhandle) | 6 | Species-specific limits apply |
| Ducks (East Zone) | Nov 23 – Dec 1, Dec 14 – Jan 26 | 6 | Split season |
| Dark Geese | Nov 1 – Nov 30, Dec 6 – Feb 8 | 3 | Canada geese |
| Light Geese | Nov 1 – Nov 30, Dec 6 – Feb 8 | 20 | Snow/blue geese |
| Teal (September) | Sep 14 – 29 | 6 | Blue-wing/green-wing/cinnamon |
| Sandhill Crane | Oct 26 – Jan 31 | 3 | Special permit required |
Waterfowl Requirements:
- Federal duck stamp required (age 16+)
- Oklahoma waterfowl stamp required
- Steel shot or other non-toxic ammunition mandatory
- HIP certification required
The Panhandle region offers some of the best early-season duck hunting, while eastern Oklahoma provides excellent late-season opportunities. Many hunters also like the neighboring Arkansas hunting seasons for additional waterfowl opportunities.
Other Available Game
Oklahoma offers hunting opportunities for several additional species:
| Species | Season | Bag Limit | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Frog | Year-round | 20 | Valid fishing license |
| Snapping Turtle | Year-round | 5 | Valid fishing license |
| Rail | Sep 1 – Nov 9 | 25 | Migratory bird stamp |
| Snipe | Sep 27 – Jan 11 | 8 | Migratory bird stamp |
| Woodcock | Dec 14 – Jan 27 | 3 | Migratory bird stamp |
| Armadillo | Year-round | No limit | May be taken without license |
Specialty Hunting Notes:
- Frog gigging is popular in eastern Oklahoma
- Snipe hunting requires specific habitat knowledge
- Armadillos may be taken year-round as nuisance animals
- Some species require additional federal stamps
Hunting Zones & Public Land Access
Oklahoma is divided into several hunting zones with different regulations:
Major Zone Divisions:
- Panhandle Region: Different waterfowl seasons, limited deer zones
- Eastern Oklahoma: Heavy timber, good turkey and deer habitat
- Central Plains: Mixed agriculture and grassland
- Southeastern Mountains: Bear and elk country
Public Land Opportunities:
Oklahoma maintains over 70 Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) totaling more than 1.5 million acres. Popular areas include:
- Cookson WMA (Eastern region)
- Beaver River WMA (Northwestern region)
- Arbuckle Springs WMA (Southeastern region)
- Cherokee WMA (Northeastern region)
New 2025 Check-In Requirements:
Non-residents must now check in and out of certain public hunting areas using the online system or mobile app. This applies to all WMAs and helps the department track usage patterns.
For detailed maps and area-specific regulations, visit the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation website. Their interactive map tool helps hunters identify public land boundaries and access points.
Permits, Tags & License Details
Understanding license requirements is crucial for legal hunting in Oklahoma. Here’s the complete breakdown:
Resident Licenses (2025-2026):
- Annual Hunting License: $36
- Youth Annual Super License (17 & under): $26
- Annual Combination (Hunting/Fishing): $53
- Lifetime Combination: $695 (ages 16-64)
Non-Resident Licenses:
- Annual Hunting License: $209
- 5-Day Hunting License: $56 (not valid for big game)
- Youth Annual Super License: $151
- Non-Resident Combination: $289
Special Permits & Add-Ons:
- Oklahoma Waterfowl Stamp: $10
- Controlled Hunt Application: $10 residents / $50 non-residents
- WMA Access Permit (non-residents): $100
- Archery License Add-On: $7
- Primitive Weapons Add-On: $7
License Exemptions:
- Landowners hunting their own property
- Active military stationed in Oklahoma
- Oklahoma residents over 65 (hunting license only)
- Youth under 16 when accompanied by licensed adult
The new license fee structure took effect in 2024, bringing Oklahoma more in line with regional averages. The Youth Annual Super License is particularly valuable, covering all species and methods for young hunters.
Oklahoma Hunting Quick FAQ
Q: Do I need hunter education to hunt in Oklahoma?
A: Yes, all hunters born after January 1, 1972, must complete a hunter education course unless hunting under direct supervision of a licensed adult.
Q: Can I hunt on Sunday in Oklahoma?
A: Yes, Sunday hunting is legal on private property. Some public areas may have restrictions, so check specific area regulations.
Q: What’s the check-in requirement for non-residents?
A: Starting in 2025, non-residents must check in and out of certain public hunting areas using the department’s online system or mobile app. There’s no additional fee for this requirement.
Q: Are there special seasons for military personnel?
A: Active military stationed in Oklahoma are considered residents for licensing purposes. Some areas offer special military hunting opportunities.
Q: What happens if I’m caught hunting without a license?
A: Hunting without a license is a misdemeanor with fines ranging from $50-$500, plus potential loss of hunting privileges.
Q: Can I use a crossbow during archery season?
A: Crossbows are legal during archery seasons for hunters with permanent disabilities or those 65 and older. Others may use crossbows during gun seasons.
Q: How do controlled hunts work in Oklahoma?
A: Controlled hunts use a lottery system for premium hunting opportunities. Applications typically open in spring with drawings held in summer. Success rates vary by hunt and species.
Essential Resources & Links
Before heading afield, bookmark these important resources:
Official Sources:
- Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation: www.wildlifedepartment.com
- License Purchase: gooutdoorsoklahoma.com
- WMA Check-In System: Available through ODWC website
- Harvest Reporting: Required for big game within 24 hours
Planning Tools:
- Interactive WMA Map: Available on ODWC website
- Weather & Conditions: Check local forecasts
- Controlled Hunt Applications: Open annually in spring
For hunters interested in exploring opportunities in neighboring states, consider researching Texas hunting seasons or Kansas hunting opportunities for extended adventures.
Conclusion
Oklahoma’s 2025-2026 game schedule offers something for every type of hunter. From the early dove opener to late-season waterfowl hunting, the Sooner State provides nearly year-round opportunities across diverse habitats. The extended archery seasons, youth-focused programs, and abundant public land access make Oklahoma an attractive destination for both residents and visitors.
Remember that regulations can change, and it’s your responsibility to stay current with the latest rules. Always verify season dates, bag limits, and zone boundaries before hunting. Purchase your licenses early, especially for controlled hunts, and don’t forget about the new check-in requirements for non-residents on public lands.
Most importantly, hunt safely and ethically. Respect private property, follow all game laws, and help preserve Oklahoma’s hunting traditions for future generations. The outdoors are calling – make this season count!
