COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife is currently accepting applications for Ohio’s public land controlled hunts until July 31, providing unique opportunities for hunting enthusiasts during the upcoming 2024-25 season.
Controlled hunts organized by the Division of Wildlife and the Division of Parks & Watercraft are set to take place across select areas in Ohio. These hunts cater to various categories including adults, youth, mobility impaired individuals, and mentors with apprentices. Participants can pursue a variety of game such as deer, waterfowl, doves, pheasants, squirrels, and quail, with options available for both firearm and archery hunting methods.
Hunters interested in participating can apply for permits online through Ohio’s Wildlife Licensing System or by phone at 1-866-703-1928. A nominal service fee of $5.50 applies for the phone application process. Each application requires a non-refundable $3 fee, and applicants may apply for multiple hunts but only once per hunt category per year.
All applicants, whether youth or adult, must possess a valid Ohio hunting license and meet specific age requirements. Youth hunters must be under 18 years old at the time of the hunt, while adults must be 18 or older at the time of application. Additionally, applicants applying for deer hunts must hold a valid deer permit. Detailed information regarding eligibility and specific hunt details can be found on the controlled hunt page at wildohio.gov.
During controlled deer hunts, participants have the option to use a deer management permit, priced at $15, which allows for the harvesting of antlerless deer only. These permits are valid statewide until December 22, 2024.
New to this year’s offerings are permit-only ring-necked pheasant hunts at several wildlife areas including East Fork, Fallsville, and Salt Fork, among others. Successful applicants will be selected via a random lottery drawing and notified by August 8, receiving additional information including permits, rules, and maps of their designated hunting area.
For comprehensive details on each hunting area and specific application statuses, applicants are encouraged to visit the Controlled Hunting Access Lotteries webpage on ohiodnr.gov. Further information on hunting regulations and opportunities in Ohio can be accessed through the HuntFish OH mobile app or by visiting wildohio.gov.
The ODNR Division of Wildlife remains committed to conserving and enhancing Ohio’s wildlife resources and habitats for sustainable use and enjoyment by all residents. For more information about ODNR’s conservation efforts and recreational opportunities, visit wildohio.gov.
As ODNR celebrates 75 years of protecting Ohio’s natural resources in 2024, the department continues to promote responsible use and conservation of Ohio’s natural environment. Learn more about ODNR’s mission and initiatives at ohiodnr.gov.
