When Does PA Archery Season End? 2025 Dates

By Sarah Miller · December 19, 2043

The Pennsylvania archery deer season for 2025 ends on Monday, November 17, 2025. This date applies to the statewide general archery season, which runs from September 27 through November 17. Additional late archery seasons may extend into December in certain Wildlife Management Units (WMUs), particularly for antlerless deer.

Understanding Pennsylvania Archery Season Dates

The Pennsylvania Game Commission sets annual hunting seasons based on wildlife population data, public input, and conservation goals. The archery season is one of the longest hunting periods, offering bowhunters ample opportunity to pursue deer across the state.

Key Archery Season Periods in 2025

General Archery Season: September 27 – November 17, 2025
Late Archery Season (select WMUs): December 26, 2025 – January 11, 2026
Antlerless Deer License Season (archery allowed): Varies by WMU, typically in late October and December

Bowhunting licenses are valid statewide during the general season, but hunters must verify specific dates for their Wildlife Management Unit, especially if planning to hunt during extended or special antlerless seasons.

Wildlife Management Units and Season Variations

Pennsylvania is divided into 22 Wildlife Management Units (WMUs), each with potential variations in season length and regulations, particularly for antlerless deer harvest. Some units allow archery hunting during additional late-season periods to manage deer populations effectively.

How to Check Your WMU Regulations

Visit the official Pennsylvania Game Commission website
Use the Hunting & Trapping Digest published annually
Download the PGC mobile app for real-time updates
Contact a local Game Commission office for clarification

WMU	General Archery End Date	Late Archery Start	Late Archery End	Antlerless License Periods (Archery Allowed)
1A	Nov 17, 2025	Dec 26, 2025	Jan 11, 2026	Oct 25–26; Dec 26–31
2B	Nov 17, 2025	Dec 26, 2025	Jan 11, 2026	Oct 18–19; Dec 26–31
3C	Nov 17, 2025	Dec 26, 2025	Jan 11, 2026	Oct 11–12; Dec 26–31
4D	Nov 17, 2025	Dec 26, 2025	Jan 11, 2026	Oct 4–5; Dec 26–31
5E	Nov 17, 2025	Dec 26, 2025	Jan 11, 2026	Sep 27–28; Dec 26–31

Table data source:1, 2

The data shows that while the general archery season ends uniformly on November 17, 2025, all listed WMUs offer a late archery season from December 26 through January 11 of the following year. Antlerless license periods vary significantly by unit, allowing early-season archery opportunities as far back as September in some areas. These variations reflect targeted population management strategies in regions with higher deer densities.

Licensing and Equipment Requirements

To legally participate in Pennsylvania’s archery season, hunters must possess a valid Pennsylvania hunting license and a current archery license. Bonus antlerless licenses are required to harvest antlerless deer in designated WMUs.

Approved Archery Equipment

Recurve bows
Compound bows
Longbows
Crossbows (during all archery and firearms seasons for eligible hunters)

Crossbow use is permitted for all hunters during archery season, eliminating previous restrictions for senior or disabled hunters only.

Tips for Late-Season Archery Success

Hunting in November and December presents unique challenges due to colder weather, reduced daylight, and changes in deer movement patterns following the rut.

Strategies for Maximizing Harvest Chances

Focus on food sources: Acorns, agricultural fields, and supplemental feed attract deer in late fall.
Monitor weather fronts: Cold snaps increase daytime movement.
Use trail cameras: Track deer movement patterns leading into the late season.
Stay mobile: Ridgetop stands may be less productive; focus on lower elevations and thermal cover.

Frequently Asked Questions About PA Archery Season

When does the general archery season end in Pennsylvania?

The general archery deer season in Pennsylvania ends on November 17, 2025. This date is consistent across all Wildlife Management Units for the 2025 season.

Can you bowhunt after November 17 in PA?

Yes, bowhunting continues beyond November 17 in select Wildlife Management Units. A late archery season runs from December 26, 2025, to January 11, 2026, in many areas, and antlerless deer may be taken with archery equipment during specific license periods.

Is crossbow legal during archery season in PA?

Yes, crossbows are fully legal for all hunters during Pennsylvania’s archery season. As of recent regulation changes, no special permit or age restriction is required to use a crossbow during archery season.

Do I need a bonus antlerless license to hunt deer with a bow?

You need a bonus antlerless license only if you plan to harvest an antlerless deer in a WMU that requires it. These licenses are issued through a lottery and are mandatory in high-density areas to control population growth.

What are the best WMUs for late-season archery hunting in PA?

WMUs 2B, 3C, and 5E are known for strong deer populations and extended antlerless seasons, making them popular for late-season archery. Public lands in these units, such as state forests and game lands, offer excellent access for bowhunters.