Plan to apply for Ohio’s controlled hunts in July

COLUMBUS — Applications for Ohio’s controlled public land hunting opportunities will be accepted beginning July 1, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Wildlife. 

These hunts provide special chances for hunters to pursue deer, waterfowl, doves, and more on public lands during the 2022-23 season. The application period is open for all hunters until July 31. Controlled hunts are held on select areas around Ohio and are available through the Division of Wildlife and the Division of Parks and Watercraft. 

Available hunts for the 2022-23 season include deer, waterfowl, dove, pheasant, squirrel and quail. The Division of Wildlife offers hunts for adults, youth, mobility impaired and mentors with apprentices. Firearm and archery options are available. 

Hunters may apply for controlled hunts by completing the application process online using Ohio’s Wildlife Licensing System or via phone by calling 1-800-703-1928. There is $5.50 service fee for the phone option. Each hunt requires payment of a non-refundable $3 application fee. Customers may apply for more than one hunt but can only apply to each hunt once per year. 

All applicants, youth and adult, are required to possess a valid Ohio hunting license and meet age requirements. Youth hunters must be under 18 at the time of the hunt to participate. Adults must be 18 or older at the time of the application. Those applying for deer hunts will also need a valid deer permit to apply. 

Find more information at wildohio.gov on the controlled hunt page. 

Participants may use a deer management permit during controlled deer hunts. Deer management permits cost $15 and can be used to harvest antlerless deer only. Deer management permits are valid on private land and select public hunting areas until Nov. 27. They are also valid during authorized controlled hunts between Sept. 10 and Feb. 5, 2023. 

Hunters are randomly drawn from submitted applications. Successful applicants will be notified and provided additional hunt information by Aug. 8, including a permit, rules and hunting area map. 

Each controlled hunt opportunity is unique, and applicants are encouraged to thoroughly review all site-specific information, including rules and requirements, prior to applying. Application statuses can be viewed through Ohio’s Wildlife Licensing System. 

Explore detailed information about each hunting area, its habitats, and its species through the Find a Destination webpage at ohiodnr.gov. For more information about hunting in Ohio download the HuntFish OH mobile app or visit wildohio.gov. Follow the Your Wild Ohio Hunter Facebook page for hunting tips and useful information as you get outside this season.