When Is Archery Season in Pennsylvania? 2025 Dates

By Sarah Miller · August 24, 2047

Archery season in Pennsylvania typically runs from early September through late November for antlered deer, with specific dates varying by zone and year. For the 2025 season, archery hunting for deer begins on September 13 and continues through November 29, offering hunters a nearly 11-week window to pursue game using bows and crossbows.

Understanding Pennsylvania Archery Season Dates

The Pennsylvania Game Commission (PGC) sets annual archery hunting seasons based on wildlife management goals, regional deer populations, and public input. The archery season is generally the first legal hunting period of the fall and applies to both antlered and antlerless deer, depending on the Wildlife Management Unit (WMU).

Key Dates for 2025 Archery Season

Start Date: September 13, 2025
End Date: November 29, 2025
Open statewide across all WMUs
Covers both antlered and antlerless deer where permitted

This extended season allows experienced and novice bowhunters ample opportunity to participate in sustainable wildlife management while enjoying Pennsylvania’s diverse forests and terrain.

Zone-Specific Regulations and Exceptions

Pennsylvania divides its hunting regions into 22 Wildlife Management Units (WMUs), each with potentially different rules regarding antlerless deer licenses and special regulations.

What You Need to Know by Zone

WMUs 2B, 5C, and 5D may have additional antlerless deer opportunities during archery season
Some urban zones allow extended or modified seasons
Hunters must verify license requirements specific to their WMU
Crossbows are permitted during archery season for all licensed hunters (no age or disability restriction)

License and Equipment Requirements

To legally hunt during archery season in Pennsylvania, hunters must possess the appropriate licenses and adhere to equipment standards set by the PGC.

Required Licenses

General Hunting License ($20.97 for residents)
Archery Permit ($16.97)
Deer Tags (Antlered and/or Antlerless, as applicable)

Approved Equipment

Recurve bows, compound bows, and longbows
Crossbows meeting minimum draw weight (125 lbs) and safety requirements
Mechanical releases and broadhead arrows allowed
Sights, stabilizers, and noise dampeners permitted

Season Schedule and Data by Year

The following table outlines recent and projected archery season dates in Pennsylvania to help hunters plan ahead.

Year	Start Date	End Date	Duration (Days)	Notes
2022	September 17	November 25	70	Standard season resumed post-pandemic adjustments
2023	September 16	November 24	70	No major regulation changes
2024	September 14	November 23	71	Minor weekend shift due to calendar alignment
2025 (Projected)	September 13	November 29	78	Extended end date adds one week of hunting

Table data source:1, 2

The data shows a consistent start in mid-September over the past few years, with the 2025 season extending nearly a full week longer than previous years—likely to support population management goals. The duration increase reflects Pennsylvania's commitment to balanced deer herd control through regulated archery hunting.

Tips for Success During PA Archery Season

Bowhunting requires preparation, patience, and knowledge of animal behavior. Early season hunts often focus on food sources like agricultural fields, while late-season activity increases near thermal cover and travel corridors.

Scout well before the season begins
Use trail cameras to monitor deer movement
Practice shooting from tree stands and ground level
Dress appropriately for changing fall weather
Always follow safety protocols when handling bows and climbing stands

Frequently Asked Questions About Archery Season in Pennsylvania

Can you use a crossbow during archery season in Pennsylvania?

Yes, crossbows are fully permitted during archery season for all hunters, regardless of age or physical ability. As of 2020, Pennsylvania eliminated restrictions that previously limited crossbow use to older or disabled hunters.

Do I need a special license for archery hunting in PA?

Yes, in addition to a general hunting license, you must purchase an archery permit. You also need the appropriate deer tags (antlered or antlerless) depending on what you’re hunting and your location.

Is the archery season the same across all of Pennsylvania?

The start and end dates are consistent statewide, but regulations regarding antlerless deer harvest vary by Wildlife Management Unit (WMU). Hunters should check specific rules for their WMU before heading into the field.

When does the 2025 archery season start and end?

The 2025 archery season in Pennsylvania begins on September 13 and ends on November 29, providing a 78-day hunting window—the longest in recent years.

Can I hunt on Sundays during archery season?

Yes, Sunday hunting is allowed during archery season in all counties of Pennsylvania. This includes both public and private lands, though local regulations may apply on certain state parks or municipal properties.