September 24, 2024, Press Release from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources: COLUMBUS, Ohio – The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife encourages Ohio’s sportsmen and women to join millions of others nationwide in celebrating National Hunting and Fishing Day on Saturday, Sept. 28.
Ohioans have many options to get outside on National Hunting and Fishing Day and during the coming weeks. The annual white-tailed deer archery hunting season opens statewide on Saturday, Sept. 28, as does the youth and military waterfowl hunting weekend. Hunting seasons for squirrels and doves are already open. The fall wild turkey hunting season, available in 70 counties, begins Oct. 1. Find more information in the 2024-25 Hunting and Trapping Regulations and purchase a hunting license or permit if necessary before your outing.
National Hunting and Fishing Day is Saturday, Sept. 28.
“On Saturday, many of Ohio’s hunters and anglers will be outside and pursuing their passions,” said Governor Mike DeWine. “National Hunting and Fishing Day is a time to honor our state’s traditions and a chance to enjoy the wildlife and natural spaces available in the Buckeye State.”
This year marks the 52nd National Hunting and Fishing Day, which took place first in 1972 by the National Shooting Sports Foundation. It is observed on the fourth Saturday in September each year. In recognition of the significance of hunting and fishing to many Ohioans, Governor Mike DeWine and Lt. Governor Jon Husted signed a proclamation for the day.
Nationwide, sales from hunting licenses and fishing licenses, as well as excise taxes on firearms, ammunition, archery equipment, and fishing equipment through the Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration programs, have contributed billions of dollars to wildlife conservation. These funds help states purchase and manage public lands.
“National Hunting and Fishing Day is a great time to reflect on the contributions of sportsmen and women to conservation,” said Division of Wildlife Chief Kendra Wecker. “These funds are invested in our state’s wildlife as well as in increased public hunting and fishing opportunities.”
In the past year, hunters, anglers, and other conservationists have made possible land acquisitions at Conesville, Funk Bottoms, and Moxley wildlife areas. Ohioans have also helped fund improvements to the Indian Creek and Spring Valley shooting ranges; renovations at the London and Senecaville state fish hatcheries; and fishing pier upgrades at Cowan Lake, Knox Lake, Mogadore Reservoir, Oxbow Lake, and Tycoon Lake.
Ohioans have many options to get outside on National Hunting and Fishing Day and during the coming weeks. The annual white-tailed deer archery hunting season opens statewide on Saturday, Sept. 28, as does the youth and military waterfowl hunting weekend. Hunting seasons for squirrels and doves are already open. The fall wild turkey hunting season, available in 70 counties, begins Oct. 1. Find more information in the 2024-25 Hunting and Trapping Regulations and purchase a hunting license or permit if necessary before your outing.
The fall is also a great time to enjoy Ohio’s fantastic fishing. Walleye and yellow perch fishing on Lake Erie is superb this time of year. On inland lakes and reservoirs, saugeye, smallmouth bass, and panfish are popular fall targets. Check the 2024-25 Fishing Regulations for details before you hit the water and renew your fishing license if needed.
The Division of Wildlife is responsible for conserving and improving fish and wildlife resources in the Buckeye State. Follow the Division of Wildlife on Instagram and Facebook for news stories, wildlife photography, outdoor recreation ideas, local wildlife information, and more. Visit wildohio.gov to find locations to hunt, fish, trap, and view wildlife.
Visit nhfday.org to find out more information about National Hunting and Fishing Day, including hunting and fishing resources, how to get started, locations for recreation, and more.
The Wildlife Restoration and Sport Fish Restoration programs dedicate permanent funding to state fish and wildlife agencies through federal excise taxes on hunting, fishing, and shooting equipment. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service annually administers these funds that the Division of Wildlife uses to acquire land, restore habitat, expand opportunities for sportsmen and sportswomen, conduct fish and wildlife research, and provide aquatic and hunter education.
The mission of the Division of Wildlife is to conserve and improve fish and wildlife resources and their habitats for sustainable use and appreciation by all. Visit wildohio.gov to find out more.
In 2024, join ODNR as we celebrate 75 years of protecting Ohio’s natural resources and providing outstanding and award-winning recreational opportunities.
ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.
