Your Complete Guide to 2026 Hunting Seasons Across America
Whether you're a seasoned hunter or planning your first expedition, understanding hunting seasons across different states is crucial for a successful and legal hunt. The 2026 hunting calendar brings exciting opportunities across all 50 states, from whitetail deer in the Midwest to elk in the Rockies and waterfowl along coastal flyways. This comprehensive guide covers key hunting seasons by region and the essential tactical gear you'll need for a safe, successful hunt.
Understanding Hunting Season Regulations
Hunting seasons are carefully managed by state wildlife agencies to ensure sustainable populations and ethical harvesting. Seasons vary significantly based on:
- Species and game type: Big game, small game, waterfowl, and upland birds each have distinct seasons
- Weapon type: Archery, muzzleloader, and modern firearm seasons often run consecutively
- Geographic zones: Many states divide into multiple hunting zones with different dates
- License types: Resident vs. non-resident, youth, senior, and special permit hunts
Always verify current regulations with your state's Department of Natural Resources or Fish & Wildlife agency before heading afield, as dates and bag limits can change annually.
Northeast Region Hunting Seasons
Pennsylvania
Deer Archery: September 27 - November 15, 2026 & November 30 - January 17, 2027
Deer Firearms: November 30 - December 12, 2026
Turkey Spring: April 25 - May 30, 2026
Bear: November 21 - November 24, 2026
New York
Deer Archery: October 1 - November 20, 2026
Deer Regular Firearms: November 21 - December 13, 2026
Waterfowl: October 10 - December 27, 2026 (varies by zone)
Turkey Fall: October 1 - November 20, 2026
Maine
Deer Archery: September 12 - December 12, 2026
Deer Firearms: November 2 - November 28, 2026
Moose: September 28 - October 3, 2026 (lottery permit)
Black Bear: August 31 - November 28, 2026
Southeast Region Hunting Seasons
Georgia
Deer Archery: September 12, 2026 - January 10, 2027
Deer Primitive Weapons: October 10 - October 18, 2026
Deer Firearms: October 17, 2026 - January 10, 2027
Turkey Spring: March 20 - May 15, 2026
Hog: Year-round (no closed season)
Texas
Whitetail Deer (General): November 7, 2026 - January 3, 2027
Mule Deer: November 21 - December 6, 2026
Turkey Spring: March 21 - May 10, 2026
Dove: September 1 - November 8, 2026 & December 18, 2026 - January 10, 2027
Feral Hog: Year-round (no closed season)
Florida
Deer General Gun: November 7, 2026 - February 22, 2027 (varies by zone)
Turkey Spring: March 7 - April 5, 2026
Hog: Year-round on private land
Waterfowl: November 21, 2026 - January 31, 2027
Midwest Region Hunting Seasons
Wisconsin
Deer Archery: September 19, 2026 - January 4, 2027
Deer Gun: November 21 - November 29, 2026
Bear: September 9 - October 7, 2026
Turkey Fall: September 19 - November 29, 2026
Michigan
Deer Archery: October 1, 2026 - January 1, 2027
Deer Firearms: November 15 - November 30, 2026
Elk: August 15 - September 20, 2026 (limited lottery)
Turkey Spring: April 20 - May 31, 2026
Iowa
Deer Archery: October 3, 2026 - January 10, 2027
Deer Shotgun (1st Season): December 5 - December 9, 2026
Deer Shotgun (2nd Season): December 19 - December 23, 2026
Turkey Spring: April 11 - May 16, 2026
Mountain West Region Hunting Seasons
Colorado
Elk Archery: August 29 - September 27, 2026
Elk Rifle (2nd Season): October 17 - October 25, 2026
Elk Rifle (3rd Season): November 7 - November 15, 2026
Mule Deer Rifle: October 17 - November 15, 2026 (varies by season)
Pronghorn: October 3 - October 11, 2026
Montana
Elk General: October 24, 2026 - November 29, 2026
Deer General: October 24, 2026 - November 29, 2026
Antelope: October 10 - October 18, 2026
Bear Spring: April 15 - May 15, 2026
Wyoming
Elk General: September 1 - November 30, 2026 (varies by area)
Deer General: September 1 - November 30, 2026 (varies by area)
Antelope: August 15 - October 31, 2026
Moose: September 15 - November 15, 2026 (limited permits)
Pacific West Region Hunting Seasons
California
Deer (Zone A): August 15 - September 27, 2026
Deer (Zone D): September 12 - October 25, 2026
Waterfowl: October 24, 2026 - January 31, 2027 (varies by zone)
Wild Pig: Year-round
Oregon
Deer Rifle (Western): October 3 - November 8, 2026
Elk Rifle (Western): November 7 - November 15, 2026
Bear Spring: April 1 - June 15, 2026
Turkey Spring: April 15 - May 31, 2026
Washington
Deer Modern Firearm: October 17 - November 22, 2026 (varies by GMU)
Elk General: October 31 - November 15, 2026
Bear Spring: April 1 - June 15, 2026
Waterfowl: October 10, 2026 - January 24, 2027
Essential Hunting Gear: Sidearm Carry in the Field
While your primary hunting rifle or bow takes center stage, a reliable sidearm serves critical roles in the field: backup protection against dangerous game, humane dispatch of wounded animals, and personal defense in remote wilderness areas. Many hunters carry compact, powerful handguns as essential safety equipment.
Why Hunters Choose Sidearm Carry
- Bear country protection: Quick-access defense against aggressive bears or mountain lions
- Finishing shots: Humane dispatch without damaging additional meat
- Backup weapon: Insurance if your primary weapon fails
- Predator control: Defense against coyotes or feral hogs
- Trail safety: Protection during long hikes to and from hunting areas
Popular Hunting Sidearm Platforms
Hunters commonly choose reliable, powerful platforms including:
- Glock 20/40: 10mm power in a reliable package, excellent for bear country
- Glock 17/19: 9mm versatility with high capacity and proven reliability
- Smith & Wesson M&P series: Ergonomic design with excellent trigger
- SIG P320: Modular system with multiple caliber options
- Ruger revolvers: .44 Magnum or .357 Magnum for maximum stopping power
WARRIORLAND Holsters: Built for the Hunt
Hunting environments demand holster systems that perform under extreme conditions. Whether you're climbing steep mountain terrain, sitting in a tree stand, or tracking through dense brush, your holster must provide secure retention, weather resistance, and rapid access when needed.
Why Kydex Holsters Excel for Hunting
WARRIORLAND's Kydex holster systems offer distinct advantages for hunters:
Weather Resistance: Unlike leather holsters that absorb moisture and lose shape, Kydex performs flawlessly in rain, snow, and humidity. Your sidearm stays protected and accessible regardless of conditions.
Lightweight Construction: When you're carrying a rifle, ammunition, game bags, and survival gear, every ounce matters. Kydex holsters add minimal weight while providing maximum protection.
Secure Retention: Adjustable retention systems ensure your sidearm stays put during strenuous activity—climbing, crawling, or navigating rough terrain—while allowing smooth draws when needed.
Silent Operation: Quality Kydex holsters eliminate the creaks and squeaks associated with leather, maintaining stealth when approaching game.
Low Maintenance: No conditioning, waterproofing, or special care required. Simply wipe clean and you're ready for the next hunt.
OWB Holsters for Hunting Applications
Outside-the-waistband (OWB) holsters are preferred by many hunters for several reasons:
- Easy access over layers: Works with heavy jackets, bibs, and layered clothing
- Comfortable for extended wear: Better weight distribution during all-day hunts
- Quick on/off capability: Paddle or belt-loop designs allow easy removal when field dressing game
- Accommodates larger frames: Perfect for 10mm Glocks or full-size revolvers
WARRIORLAND's OWB holster collection includes models specifically designed for popular hunting sidearms. Features include:
- Adjustable cant for optimal draw angle
- Optic-cut compatibility for red dot equipped pistols
- Thumb-release retention for secure carry
- Belt loops compatible with 1.5" to 2.25" gun belts
- Right-hand and left-hand configurations
Light-Bearing Holsters for Low-Light Hunting
Dawn and dusk—prime hunting hours—often require weapon-mounted lights for safe firearm handling and target identification. WARRIORLAND's light-bearing holsters accommodate popular systems including:
- Streamlight TLR-7A and TLR-7X
- SureFire X300U
- Olight PL-Mini 2
- WARRIORLAND MA1 tactical light series
These holsters maintain secure retention of both firearm and light while providing the quick access essential for defensive situations in the backcountry.
Chest Holster Compatibility
Many hunters prefer chest-mounted holster systems that keep sidearms accessible while wearing backpacks or when seated in tree stands. WARRIORLAND Kydex holsters can be adapted to quality chest rig platforms, providing:
- Unobstructed access regardless of pack configuration
- Better weight distribution across shoulders and chest
- Protection from branches and brush
- Comfortable carry during long hikes
Complete Hunting Gear Checklist
Beyond your primary weapon and sidearm, successful hunts require comprehensive preparation:
Firearms & Ammunition
- Primary hunting rifle or bow with appropriate ammunition/arrows
- Backup sidearm in quality holster
- Cleaning kit and tools
- Extra magazines or speedloaders
Optics & Navigation
- Binoculars or spotting scope
- Rangefinder
- GPS device or smartphone with offline maps
- Compass and physical maps
Safety & Survival
- Blaze orange vest and hat (required in most states)
- First aid kit with tourniquet
- Fire-starting materials
- Emergency shelter/space blanket
- Water filtration system
- High-energy food
- Headlamp with extra batteries
Game Processing
- Sharp hunting knives
- Bone saw
- Game bags
- Rope for hanging/dragging
- Latex gloves
- Cooler with ice
Clothing & Comfort
- Layered clothing appropriate for conditions
- Waterproof outer layer
- Insulated boots
- Quality gun belt for sidearm carry
- Gloves (shooting and insulated)
- Face mask or camouflage paint
Hunting Ethics and Conservation
Responsible hunters are conservationists who contribute to wildlife management through license fees, habitat improvement, and ethical harvesting practices. Key principles include:
- Know and follow all regulations: Seasons, bag limits, and legal methods
- Practice marksmanship: Ensure clean, ethical kills
- Respect private property: Always obtain permission
- Utilize harvested game: Minimize waste and honor the animal
- Leave no trace: Pack out all trash and minimize environmental impact
- Mentor new hunters: Pass on traditions and ethical practices
Planning Your 2026 Hunt
Successful hunts require advance planning:
Research and Scout: Study your hunting area, identify game patterns, and locate water sources and bedding areas. Trail cameras provide valuable intelligence.
Physical Preparation: Hunting demands cardiovascular fitness and strength. Train with weighted packs to simulate field conditions.
Gear Testing: Don't wait until opening day to discover equipment failures. Test all gear, sight in rifles, and practice with your actual hunting setup.
License and Permits: Apply early for limited-draw hunts. Many western states have application deadlines in spring for fall hunts.
Travel Arrangements: Book accommodations early, especially for popular hunting destinations during peak seasons.
State-Specific Considerations
Western States (Colorado, Montana, Wyoming)
High-altitude hunts demand excellent physical conditioning and preparation for rapidly changing weather. Afternoon thunderstorms are common. Sidearms in 10mm or .44 Magnum provide bear protection. Pack lightweight but warm layers.
Midwest States (Wisconsin, Michigan, Iowa)
Whitetail hunting often involves long sits in stands or blinds. Comfortable, warm clothing is essential. Sidearms provide backup for tracking wounded deer into thick cover.
Southern States (Texas, Georgia, Florida)
Heat management and hydration are critical. Feral hog populations provide year-round hunting opportunities. Lightweight, breathable clothing and snake protection are important considerations.
Northeast States (Pennsylvania, New York, Maine)
Dense forests and varied terrain characterize northeastern hunting. Shorter shooting distances are common. Blaze orange requirements are strictly enforced in most areas.
The WARRIORLAND Commitment to Hunters
At WARRIORLAND, we understand that hunters demand equipment that performs when it matters most. Our holster systems are designed and tested for real-world field conditions:
- Precision molding: Exact fit for your specific firearm model
- Adjustable retention: Dial in perfect draw resistance
- All-weather performance: Kydex won't fail in rain, snow, or extreme temperatures
- Lightweight durability: Minimal weight, maximum protection
- Multiple carry options: OWB, IWB, and chest-rig compatible designs
Whether you're pursuing whitetails in Wisconsin, elk in Colorado, or hogs in Texas, WARRIORLAND holsters ensure your sidearm is secure, protected, and ready when needed.
Conclusion: Make 2026 Your Best Hunting Season
The 2026 hunting season offers incredible opportunities across all 50 states. Success requires understanding season dates and regulations, proper physical preparation, quality equipment, and ethical hunting practices.
Your sidearm is an essential component of backcountry safety and hunting preparedness. Don't compromise on holster quality—invest in WARRIORLAND's precision-engineered Kydex holster systems designed specifically for the demands of hunting and outdoor use.
Explore our complete collection of OWB holsters, light-bearing systems, and platform-specific designs for Glock, SIG, Smith & Wesson, Ruger, and more. Every holster features the adjustability, retention, and weather resistance that serious hunters demand.
Prepare thoroughly, hunt ethically, and carry confidently. Here's to a safe and successful 2026 hunting season!
