The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife will be releasing ring-necked pheasants this fall at 24 of Ohio’s public hunting areas. More than 14,000 pheasants are scheduled to be released to provide additional hunting opportunities across the state.
The largest total release number will take place at the Delaware Wildlife Area, where 1,600 pheasants will be involved. Local release amounts are:
- October 19 – 300 (Youth)
- October 26 — 500 (Youth)
- November 1 — 350
- November 9 – 200
- November 28 — 250
“Releasing pheasants provides an opportunity for Ohio hunters to continue a rich tradition,” said Kendra Wecker, Chief of the Division of Wildlife. “Ohio has a dedicated base of pheasant hunters and we appreciate their support and contributions to wildlife conservation efforts here in Ohio. I encourage all hunters to ask a friend to tag along this season and experience a great time outdoors.”
An Ohio apprentice hunting license is available to people who want to try hunting and must be accompanied by a licensed hunter who is at least 21 years old. The apprentice hunting license is a great way to introduce someone to hunting and provide a positive experience in the field.
The Division of Wildlife will release pheasants prior to the small-game weekends for youth hunters. Youth ages 17 and younger can hunt statewide for rabbit, pheasant and all other legal game in season during two designated weekends, October 19-20 and October 26-27.
Ohio’s small game hunting season begins on Friday, November 1. Pheasants will be released for opening day, and prior to the Veterans Day and Thanksgiving holiday weekends.
Youth and regular pheasant hunting within the Ringneck Ridge Area in Sandusky County require a free permit from the Sandusky County Park District.
Pheasant hunting season opens Friday, November 1, and remains open through Saturday, January 11, 2020, with a daily bag limit of two rooster (male) birds. No hens (females) may be killed.
Statewide pheasant hunting hours are sunrise to sunset.
