Oregon Hunting Season 2026-2027 – Dates, Permits & Wildlife Units
If you are planning to head outdoors in the Pacific Northwest this year, you have picked a great state for it. This guide walks you through everything you need to know about the 2026-2027 wildlife pursuit calendar in Oregon — from big game tags and archery windows to waterfowl zones, upland bird limits, and permit pricing.
Whether you live here year-round or you are traveling from out of state to chase Roosevelt elk or spring gobblers, it pays to review the details before you pack your gear. The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) made some notable changes for 2026, especially around Eastern Oregon deer management, so even seasoned outdoors folks should read carefully. Both locals and visiting sportsmen and women should double-check dates and regulations before finalizing any trip plans.
Let’s break it all down.
📅 Quick Reference Points
Here is a fast snapshot of the major species and their approximate opening windows for the current cycle. Use this as a cheat sheet, but always confirm specifics against the official regulations before you head afield.
| Species | Approximate Open Dates | Legal Methods | Youth Opportunities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Buck Deer (Western) | Oct. 3 – Nov. 6, 2026 | Any legal weapon | Nov. 7–8, 2026 (youth) |
| Deer Archery (Western) | Aug. 29 – Sept. 27, 2026 | Bow only | Same dates apply |
| Elk (West Cascade) | Nov. 7 – Nov. 13, 2026 | Rifle / modern firearm | Controlled hunts available |
| Elk (Coast 1st) | Nov. 14 – Nov. 17, 2026 | Any legal weapon | — |
| Elk (Coast 2nd) | Nov. 21 – Nov. 27, 2026 | Any legal weapon | — |
| Black Bear (Fall) | Aug. 1 – Dec. 31, 2026 | Any legal weapon / archery | — |
| Spring Turkey | Apr. 15 – May 31, 2027 | Shotgun (≤10 ga, ≤No. 2 shot) | Apr. 10–11, 2027 |
| Fall Turkey | Sept. 1 – Jan. 31, 2027 (varies) | Shotgun | Youth upland hunts available |
| Ducks (Zone 1) | Oct. 17 – Jan. 31, 2027 | Shotgun | Youth waterfowl days |
| Geese (varies by zone) | Oct. 3 – Mar. 10, 2027 | Shotgun | — |
| Cougar | Jan. 1 – Dec. 31, 2026 | Any legal weapon | — |
| Forest Grouse | Sept. 1 – Jan. 31, 2027 | Shotgun / bow | — |
Heads up: Eastern Oregon deer pursuits are now organized by Deer Hunt Areas rather than traditional Wildlife Management Units. This is one of the biggest structural changes for 2026 and affects how you apply for controlled tags. You can explore the interactive map on the official ODFW big game portal to see how the new boundaries line up with the old units.
🦌 Big Game Overview
Oregon splits its big game opportunities into two buckets: general seasons (tags sold over the counter, no draw required) and controlled hunts (limited tags awarded through a lottery system). Most Eastern Oregon deer and many premium elk hunts fall into the controlled category, so plan your application strategy early.
Deer
Archery (Western Oregon General)
The bow window opens August 29 and runs through September 27, 2026. This is a general tag, meaning you can buy it without entering a draw. Some units also offer late archery stretches:
- Units 25, 29, 30, and 23: Aug. 29 – Sept. 27 and Nov. 14 – Dec. 6
- Unit 26: Aug. 29 – Sept. 27 (any legal archery) and Nov. 14 – Dec. 6 (traditional archery only)
- Units 10, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, and northern Unit 21: Aug. 29 – Sept. 27 and Nov. 21 – Dec. 13
Any Legal Weapon (Western Oregon General)
The rifle window for Western Oregon buck deer runs October 3 through November 6, 2026. A youth-only extension follows on November 7–8, 2026, giving young hunters a dedicated weekend.
Bag limit: One buck with visible antler. White-tailed deer are off-limits in all Western Oregon units except specific controlled hunts in the Melrose Unit (#23).
Eastern Oregon Deer
All Eastern Oregon deer hunts are now controlled. Starting in 2026, these are organized by Deer Hunt Areas instead of the old Wildlife Management Units. You will need to consult the controlled hunt tables in the regulations booklet for exact dates by hunt number. The application deadline for controlled deer tags is May 15, 2026.
Elk
Archery (General)
Archery elk runs concurrently with deer archery: August 29 – September 27, 2026. A general archery tag covers both western and most eastern units, though some eastern units have moved to controlled-only status.
Rifle / Modern Gun (General)
| Hunt | Dates (2026) | Bag Limit | Applicable Units |
|---|---|---|---|
| West Cascade General | Nov. 7 – Nov. 13 | One bull elk | 16, 19, 21, 22, 29, 30 |
| Coast 1st Season | Nov. 14 – Nov. 17 | One bull elk | 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18, 20, 23, 28 |
| Coast 2nd Season | Nov. 21 – Nov. 27 | One bull elk | 11, 15, 17, 18, 23, 28 |
| Coast 2nd Season (spike) | Nov. 21 – Nov. 27 | One spike elk | 12, 14, 20 |
| Rocky Mountain 2nd Season | Nov. 7 – Nov. 15 | One spike elk | 49, 50, 52, 53, 61, 62, 63, parts of 48 & 51 |
The Rocky Mountain first season is a controlled hunt, so you will need to draw a tag for those earlier November dates.
Muzzleloader and Controlled Elk
Muzzleloader elk hunts are all controlled, with dates varying by hunt code. The 200-series controlled elk tag tables list over a hundred specific hunts with unique dates, unit restrictions, and bag limit definitions (3-point-plus bull vs. spike). If muzzleloading is your thing, study those tables carefully.
Black Bear
The statewide general fall bear tag runs August 1 through December 31, 2026. You can also purchase an additional bear tag for the same period. Spring bear is a controlled hunt with applications due by February 10, 2026, and the spring window typically runs April 1 – May 31.
Cougar
Cougar remains open year-round statewide from January 1 through December 31, 2026, under a general tag. An additional cougar tag is also available. Tag sale deadline for general cougar is October 3.
🦃 Turkey Dates
Wild turkey populations are abundant across much of the state, and ODFW offers both spring and fall opportunities.
| Hunt Type | Dates | Bag Limit | Weapon |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring General | Apr. 15 – May 31, 2027 | 1 male or bearded turkey/day; 3 per season | Shotgun (≤10 ga, ≤No. 2 shot) |
| Youth Spring | Apr. 10–11, 2027 (and full spring) | Same as general | Shotgun |
| Fall (select WMUs) | Sept. 1 – Jan. 31, 2027 | 1–2 either sex (varies by unit) | Shotgun |
| Fall (other WMUs) | Oct. 10 – Nov. 30 & Dec. 1 – Jan. 31, 2027 | 1–2 either sex (varies by unit) | Shotgun |
Restricted areas: No turkey pursuits are allowed on National Park lands or Tribal Lands. All allotted and tribal lands within the exterior boundary of the Umatilla Indian Reservation are closed. An adult 21 or older must accompany youth hunters (and may not hunt themselves during the youth-only weekend).
Pacific Northwest hunters can plan better through Oregon turkey season timing and regional regulations.
🦝 Furbearer Opportunities
Oregon allows year-round harvesting and trapping of certain furbearers and predators. A furtaker’s license is required for trapping, while a regular hunting license covers pursuit methods for some species.
| Species | Open Period | License / Tag Required | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coyote | Year-round (no closed period) | Hunting license | No bag limit |
| Bobcat | Dec. 1 – Feb. 28 (pursuit); trapping varies | Furtaker’s license | Tag required within 10 days |
| Raccoon | Pursuit allowed with hounds Oct. – Mar. | Hunting license | See regulations for specific dates |
| Beaver | Varies by zone | Furtaker’s license | Check zone-specific closures |
| Fox (gray/red) | Varies | Furtaker’s license | Red fox protected in some areas |
If you plan to run dogs for bobcat or raccoon, make sure you have the appropriate hound pursuit permit and review the specific county-level restrictions before heading out.
🐦 Small Game Section
Small game offers some of the most accessible and affordable outdoor recreation in the state. Here is a quick rundown.
| Species | Open Dates | Daily Bag Limit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Western Gray Squirrel (west) | Sept. 1 – Nov. 15, 2026 | No limit in Rogue Unit south of river; otherwise per regs | Open west of Santiam/McKenzie/Indigo/Sprague/Interstate unit boundaries |
| Western Gray Squirrel (select units) | Sept. 15 – Oct. 31, 2026 | Per regulations | White River, Hood, Paulina, Metolius, Upper Deschutes units |
| Mourning Dove (Zone 1) | Sept. 1 – Sept. 30 & Nov. 15 – Dec. 14 | 15 daily | HIP certification required |
| Mourning Dove (Zone 2) | Sept. 1 – Oct. 30 | 15 daily | HIP certification required |
| Band-tailed Pigeon | Sept. 15 – Sept. 23 | 5 daily | Special permit required |
| Wilson’s Snipe (Zone 1) | Nov. 7 – Feb. 21, 2027 | 8 daily | HIP required |
| Wilson’s Snipe (Zone 2) | Oct. 10 – Jan. 24, 2027 | 8 daily | HIP required |
The HIP (Harvest Information Program) certification is free but mandatory for all migratory bird hunters. You can complete it online when purchasing your license.
🦆 Complete Waterfowl Seasons
Waterfowl regulations are set cooperatively between state and federal frameworks, so dates can shift slightly each year based on population surveys. Here is what the 2026-2027 calendar looks like.
Ducks
| Zone | Open Dates | Daily Bag Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Zone 1 | Oct. 17 – Nov. 1 & Nov. 5 – Jan. 31, 2027 | 7 (sub-limits apply) |
| Zone 1 Scaup | Nov. 7 – Jan. 31, 2027 | 2 scaup within daily limit |
| Zone 2 | Oct. 10 – Nov. 29 & Dec. 3 – Jan. 24, 2027 | 7 (sub-limits apply) |
| Zone 2 Scaup | Oct. 10 – Nov. 29 & Dec. 3 – Jan. 6, 2027 | 2 scaup within daily limit |
Sub-limits within the 7-duck daily bag: No more than 3 pintails, 2 hen mallards, 2 redheads, 2 canvasbacks, 2 scaup (during open period), and 1 harlequin duck. Possession limit is triple the daily bag.
Geese
Goose opportunities are split across five management zones, each with its own date structure:
| Zone | Canada Goose Dates | White-Fronted / White Goose Dates |
|---|---|---|
| Northwest Permit | Oct. 24 – Nov. 1, Nov. 21 – Jan. 8, 2027, Jan. 30 – Feb. 14, 2027 | Oct. 24 – Nov. 1, Nov. 11 – Feb. 14, 2027 |
| Southwest | Oct. 17 – Nov. 1 & Nov. 10 – Jan. 31, 2027 | Oct. 17 – Nov. 1 & Nov. 10 – Jan. 31, 2027 |
| South Coast | Oct. 3 – Dec. 6, Dec. 19 – Jan. 7, 2027, Feb. 20 – Mar. 10, 2027 | Oct. 3 – Dec. 6, Dec. 19 – Jan. 7, 2027, Feb. 20 – Mar. 10, 2027 |
| High Desert / Blue Mtn | Oct. 10 – Nov. 29 & Dec. 15 – Jan. 31, 2027 | Oct. 10 – Nov. 29 & Jan. 16 – Mar. 10, 2027 |
| Mid-Columbia | Oct. 17 – Nov. 1 & Nov. 10 – Jan. 31, 2027 | Oct. 17 – Nov. 1, Nov. 10 – Jan. 14, 2027, Feb. 6 – Feb. 28, 2027 |
What changed for 2026-27: The white-fronted goose bag limit was decreased from prior years. Check the current regulations booklet for the exact number before you hunt. A special permit is also required for brant goose harvesting.
Upland Game Birds
| Species | Open Dates | Daily Bag Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Ruffed & Blue Grouse | Sept. 1 – Jan. 31, 2027 | 3 of each species |
| Chukar & Hungarian Partridge | Oct. 10 – Jan. 31, 2027 | 8 combined (2 at Lower Klamath Hills RHA) |
| Rooster Pheasant | Oct. 10 – Dec. 31, 2026 | 2 |
| Quail (California & Mountain) – Western | Sept. 1 – Jan. 31, 2027 | 10 combined |
| Quail (California & Mountain) – Eastern | Oct. 10 – Jan. 31, 2027 | 10 combined (max 2 Mountain Quail) |
Forest grouse and mountain quail are reportedly doing exceptionally well in post-fire habitats, so prospects look strong for 2026-27. Special fee pheasant hunts run at Denman, E.E. Wilson, Fern Ridge, and Sauvie Island Wildlife Areas during September and October.
🐗 Other Available Game
| Species | Dates | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Crow | No established open season | Federally protected — verify status before any activity |
| Sandhill Crane | Limited controlled hunts (specific zones) | Tag required through draw system; check controlled hunt tables |
| Sea Ducks | Varies by zone | Special permit required in addition to HIP |
| Brant | Limited zone-specific dates | Separate permit needed |
| Frogs (bullfrog) | Year-round in select areas | No license required for bullfrog; check local restrictions |
Some of these have quirky rules. For instance, the sandhill crane draw is highly competitive and only open in specific eastern zones. Sea duck permits are limited and tied to coastal zones. Always read the fine print on these less common opportunities.
🗺️ Hunting Zones
Oregon manages wildlife through a system of Wildlife Management Units (WMUs) in the west and the newly introduced Deer Hunt Areas in the east. These boundaries determine which tags you need, what weapon types are legal, and when your window opens.
You can view the interactive map showing the new Eastern Oregon Deer Hunt Areas alongside legacy WMU boundaries on the ODFW Eastern Oregon Deer page. For the western half of the state, a unit map is published in the regulations booklet and online.
| Zone Category | Coverage | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Western Oregon Units (1–30) | Coast Range, Cascades west, Willamette Valley | General deer and elk tags available OTC |
| Eastern Oregon Deer Hunt Areas | East of Cascades | All controlled; new area-based system for 2026 |
| Waterfowl Zones 1 & 2 | Statewide split for ducks | Zone 1 = mostly east; Zone 2 = mostly west/southwest |
| Goose Management Zones | 5 distinct zones | Northwest Permit, Southwest, South Coast, High Desert/Blue Mtn, Mid-Columbia |
Public vs. private land: A large portion of Oregon’s best habitat sits on federal lands (USFS, BLM) and state wildlife areas. However, access rules differ. Some wildlife areas require a parking permit ($10 daily / $30 annual). Always confirm whether the land you plan to visit is open to the public, and secure written permission before entering private property. If you are also exploring neighboring states, the Washington wildlife calendar and California outdoor regulations follow similar frameworks worth comparing.
🎟️ Permits, Tags & Licenses Details
Oregon’s licensing system is straightforward but has several tiers. Here is a full breakdown for 2026.
License Fees
| License Type | Resident | Nonresident |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Hunting | $39.00 | $193.00 |
| Combination (Angling + Hunting) | $86.00 | N/A |
| Sports Pac (includes tags + shellfish) | $253.00 | N/A |
| Youth Combination (ages 12–17) | $10.00 | $10.00 |
| Youth Sports Pac | $75.00 | N/A |
| Senior Hunting (age 70+, 5-yr residency) | $25.00 | N/A |
Tag Fees
| Tag | Resident | Nonresident |
|---|---|---|
| Deer Tag | $33.00 | $500.00 |
| Elk Tag | $56.00 | $660.00 |
| Bear Tag (General Fall) | $16.50 | $162.00 |
| Cougar Tag (General) | $16.50 | $162.00 |
| Spring Turkey Tag | $24.50 | $88.50 |
| Controlled Hunt Application | $10.00 per species | $10.00 per species |
Add-On Permits and Stamps
- HIP Certification: Free, required for all migratory bird hunters
- Band-tailed Pigeon Permit: Required for that specific species
- Sea Duck Permit: Required for sea duck zones
- Brant Permit: Required for brant goose zones
- Wildlife Area Parking Permit: $10.00 daily / $30.00 annual
- Waterway Access Permit: $8.00 (7-day), $22.00 (annual), $37.00 (two-year)
- Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Permit (motorized boats, non-resident): $32.00
- Duplicate Tag: $2.00
Application Deadlines
- Spring Bear controlled hunt: February 10, 2026
- Big Game controlled hunt (deer, elk, antelope, etc.): May 15, 2026
- General season tag sales deadline: Typically the day before the opener (e.g., Oct. 2 for Western Oregon deer, Nov. 6 for West Cascade elk)
You can purchase licenses and tags online through the ODFW licensing portal or at any license agent location statewide. If you are looking for a broader multi-state perspective on tag costs and deadlines, you might also find the Oregon outdoors guide helpful for cross-referencing requirements.
❓ Oregon Hunting Quick FAQ
1. Do I need a controlled hunt tag for deer in Eastern Oregon?
Yes. Starting in 2026, all Eastern Oregon deer pursuits are controlled and organized by Deer Hunt Areas. You must apply by May 15 and will be selected through a lottery draw.
2. Can a nonresident buy a general deer tag over the counter?
For Western Oregon, yes — general season deer tags are available OTC to anyone with a valid license. For Eastern Oregon, you need to draw a controlled tag regardless of residency.
3. What is the daily bag limit for ducks in 2026-27?
Seven ducks per day, with sub-limits of 3 pintails, 2 hen mallards, 2 redheads, 2 canvasbacks, 2 scaup, and 1 harlequin duck. Possession limit is 21.
4. Is there a youth-only deer weekend?
Yes. Western Oregon offers a youth-only extension on November 7–8, 2026, immediately following the general rifle season.
5. Do I need HIP certification for dove and snipe?
Absolutely. HIP is required for all migratory bird hunters, including dove, snipe, ducks, geese, and band-tailed pigeons. It is free and completed at the time of license purchase.
6. Are there changes to goose limits for 2026-27?
Yes. The white-fronted goose daily bag limit was decreased compared to prior years. Always check the current regulations for the exact number before you go.
7. Can I hunt with archery equipment during the rifle season?
In most general seasons, any legal weapon is permitted, which includes archery gear. However, during archery-only hunts, firearms are not allowed. Read the specific hunt description carefully.
Wrapping Up
Here is the gist: Western Oregon offers over-the-counter deer and elk tags with predictable dates — archery in late August through September, rifle in October and November. Eastern Oregon is now fully controlled for deer under the new Deer Hunt Area system, so plan your application by May 15. Turkey gives you a generous spring window from mid-April through May, plus a long fall stretch. Waterfowl splits into two duck zones and five goose zones with different open periods, so study the map before you pick a spot. Small game and upland birds provide affordable, accessible action from September through January.
Grab your tags early, mark your calendar, and hunt responsibly. Dates can shift, and emergency closures do happen — always verify with ODFW before you head out. Bookmark this page for yearly updates, and share it with your hunting crew so nobody misses a deadline.
See you out there.