An Official Website of the Commonwealth of Kentucky
Kentucky manages wildlife for conservation - and to provide hunters with a great experience in the field. As part of its management strategy, the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources sets seasons, bag limits, hunting areas and other regulations based on science, research and input from the people who enjoy using these resources. Hunting guides are a summary of these regulations so everyone can be sure to hunt legally and safely.
Need Kentucky Hunting Season information quickly? Download the 2025 KY Spring Hunting Quick Reference for a condensed 1-page summary of the 2025 Spring Hunting Season information. For a more extensive Regulations Summary, download the 2025 Spring Hunting Guide. If you have additional questions, contact our Information Center at 1-800-858-1549.
Not sure about a regulation? Find the answers before you go afield. Consult the Kentucky Revised Statutes (KRS) or Kentucky Administrative Regulations (KAR) for the legal definitions used by the courts. They can be viewed here. You may also call Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Resources for additional information at 1-800-858-1549, or email the department at info.center@ky.gov. Phones for the Information Center are staffed from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (Eastern) Monday through Friday, except for holidays.
General Hunting and Trapping:
Migratory Birds:
A person shall not enter upon the lands of another to hunt, fish or trap without the oral or written permission of the landowner, tenant or person who has the authority to grant permission. Those who fail to obtain permission are subject to arrest and prosecution. Railroad tracks and rights of way are privately owned property and permission to hunt, fish or trap must be obtained prior to entry. (KRS 150:092)