Pheasant Season Opens in Pennsylvania: Hunters Gear Up Now!
UPDATE: The highly anticipated pheasant season in Pennsylvania is set to kick off on October 25, 2023, with over 215,000 birds ready for release. The Pennsylvania Game Commission is ramping up efforts to stock pheasants, as the population of wild ring-necked pheasants has dramatically declined in recent years.
Hunters are urged to prepare now, as the junior pheasant season has already begun, running from October 11-18, during which approximately 16,000 junior pheasants were released. The statewide season will follow closely, providing ample opportunities for both novice and experienced hunters.
Ian Gregg, chief of the Game Commission’s Wildlife Operations Division, stated, “Pheasant releases will occur weekly from late October through late November,” emphasizing that a mid-December release will enhance hunting opportunities just before the holidays. Many sites will also receive additional stocking after Christmas, extending the hunting season through to February 28, 2024.
The excitement doesn’t stop there. For the first time, Pennsylvania hunters can enjoy more Sunday hunting opportunities than ever before. The statewide pheasant season includes all Sundays from October 26 to November 23, with specific allowances for state parks on November 16 and 23.
Despite the push for hunting, it’s crucial for participants to be informed about regulations. A general hunting license is necessary, and most hunters will also need to secure a pheasant permit costing $26.97. This year, over 75,000 pheasant permits are expected to be issued, highlighting the growing interest in small-game hunting across the state.
Hunters are required to wear at least 250 square inches of fluorescent orange for safety. The daily limit stands at two pheasants, with a possession limit of six. Notably, in Pennsylvania’s two Wild Pheasant Recovery Areas (WPRAs), no hunting will occur this year due to low population estimates.
As part of a new initiative, about 8,000 pheasants will be banded to help the Game Commission assess harvest rates and improve future stocking strategies. Hunters are encouraged to report any banded birds they encounter, contributing vital data to wildlife management efforts.
The Game Commission is focused on ensuring that pheasant hunting remains a staple of outdoor life in Pennsylvania. They are adapting stocking schedules and strategies to enhance the hunting experience and boost harvest rates.
With the season just around the corner, it’s crucial for hunters to stay updated on release schedules and locations. The Game Commission provides an interactive map and allocation table on their website, detailing when and where pheasants will be stocked.
As the opening day approaches, the excitement builds among Pennsylvania’s dedicated hunting community. “Good luck, have fun, and hunt safely!” Gregg urged, capturing the spirit of the season.
Stay tuned for more updates as the season unfolds, and remember to check back for real-time stocking reports and hunting tips. The time to prepare is now—get ready for an exhilarating pheasant hunting season in Pennsylvania!
