Every hunter in Pennsylvania knows this time of year—it’s not just summer, it’s license season. The Pennsylvania Game Commission (PGC) officially opens the sale of 2025-26 hunting and furtaker licenses on Monday, June 23. If you’re planning your fall hunts or looking to fill the freezer come winter, now’s the time to get your paperwork in order.
Here’s what you need to know to stay ahead of the game.
Why June 23 Matters
The start date might feel early to some, but getting your license now sets the tone for your entire season. The 2025-26 license year runs from July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2026, and buying early means you’re ready for everything from summer scouting to late-season tags.
Licenses can be purchased online through www.huntfish.pa.gov or at approved issuing agents statewide.
A Big Win for Resident Hunters: Antlerless License Guarantee
One of the biggest updates for this season is a guarantee for Pennsylvania residents when it comes to antlerless deer licenses.
If you’re a resident and you apply for an antlerless license before 7 a.m. on Monday, July 14, you’re guaranteed to get one for the Wildlife Management Unit (WMU) of your choice. That means no more scrambling or hoping you beat the crowd. As long as you apply within that window, you’re in.
Non-residents can begin applying starting at 8 a.m. on July 14, after the resident-only window closes. This setup gives locals a fair shot at tags in their home WMUs.
Key Dates and Sale Rounds
The PGC has laid out a clear timeline for antlerless license sales this year:
- June 23 – July 14: First round for residents (guaranteed availability)
- July 14 (8 a.m.): First round opens for non-residents
- July 28 (8 a.m.): Second round begins
- August 11 (8 a.m.): Third round starts; DMAP permits also go on sale
- August 25 (8 a.m.): Fourth round kicks off
It’s worth noting that each hunter can now hold up to six unfilled antlerless licenses, and up to 15 total in WMUs 5C and 5D. That flexibility is great for those who hunt multiple properties or manage crop damage.
Planning Tips
- Know your WMU: Before applying, double-check your primary hunting area. Maps and boundaries change occasionally. Use the interactive map on the PGC website.
- Be ready at the opening time: Sales open at 8 a.m. on the scheduled dates. If you’re buying online, log in early and have your info ready.
- Stack your tags strategically: With the ability to hold multiple antlerless tags, consider when and where you’ll actually be able to hunt. Overbuying doesn’t help if you can’t make it into the woods.
- Use the calendar reminders: With multiple sales rounds, it’s easy to miss a date. Set reminders or alerts on your phone.
Final Thoughts
Pennsylvania’s system may not be perfect, but it’s evolving in ways that benefit those who prepare early. The resident guarantee is a major advantage this season—don’t miss it.
For more info or to buy your license, head to the official PGC site: www.pgc.pa.gov
Stay sharp, plan ahead, and here’s to a successful 2025-26 hunting season.
