Pennsylvania hunters just scored a major victory.
On July 8, 2025, Governor Josh Shapiro signed a bill that removes all remaining restrictions on Sunday hunting in the state. For the first time in Pennsylvania’s long hunting history, sportsmen and women will have access to all Sundays during hunting season — not just a select few.
This is more than just a change in the rulebook. It’s a long-overdue win for hunters who work weekdays, for families that pass on traditions, and for the future of the outdoor lifestyle in Pennsylvania.
The Bill That Changed It All
Until now, Pennsylvania only allowed hunting on three Sundays each year — one during archery deer season, one during rifle deer season, and one selected by the Game Commission. Those exceptions were made after a 2019 law chipped away at the state’s century-old ban on Sunday hunting. But full access was still blocked by laws requiring landowner permission and restrictions on which Sundays were eligible.
Governor Shapiro’s new law removes all that red tape.
With the stroke of a pen, the state repealed the so-called “blue law” that had prohibited Sunday hunting for over 100 years. Now, starting this fall, the Pennsylvania Game Commission can open any Sunday during a hunting season — just like any other day. No special permission from landowners is required beyond what’s already expected on private land during the week.
Why This Matters
Most hunters in Pennsylvania are working folks. Monday through Friday belongs to the job. Saturdays fill up fast with other responsibilities. That left very little time in the woods — especially for younger generations juggling school, sports, and family.
Opening up Sundays means more opportunity. It’s not about increasing harvest numbers as much as it is about access.
- Weekend warriors now get two full days afield instead of one
- Families can hunt together without sacrificing school or work
- Rural businesses tied to hunting seasons — diners, gas stations, gear shops — can expect more traffic
It also levels the playing field. Pennsylvania was one of the last states in the country to keep such a broad ban in place. With this law, it joins the majority of states that treat Sunday like any other hunting day.
The Road to Repeal
This change didn’t happen overnight.
Hunters, wildlife groups, and conservationists have been pushing for full Sunday hunting access for decades. The Pennsylvania Game Commission has consistently supported lifting the ban. So have national organizations like the National Rifle Association and the Sportsmen’s Alliance.
But opposition held firm — especially from the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau and some religious groups. They argued Sundays should be a day of rest, or a quiet day for non-hunters to enjoy the outdoors.
In 2019, momentum started to shift. That year’s legislation opened the door to three Sundays, but the limits were frustrating. Hunters still had to get written permission to use private land. The Game Commission’s hands were tied. That left a patchwork of confusion and missed opportunity.
Now, five years later, the door is fully open.
Voices from the Field
Across the state, the response has been overwhelmingly positive.
Brian Burhans, executive director of the Pennsylvania Game Commission, praised the bill as a “historic step toward modernizing Pennsylvania hunting law.” Hunters on forums and in local clubs called it a “game changer.”
Many say it’s about time the law caught up with reality. Pennsylvania has one of the largest hunter populations in the country. Giving them fair access to the woods just makes sense.
Still Some Pushback
Not everyone’s thrilled. The Pennsylvania Farm Bureau continues to express concern about safety and landowner rights. They say some farmers want one day of the week when they don’t have to worry about hunters on nearby properties. Others argue that Sunday is a day for rest or quiet recreation.
But the law doesn’t force anyone to allow hunting on their land. Just like always, private landowners still control access to their property. And many already allow it during the week. Now they simply have the option to allow it on Sundays too.
What’s Next for Hunters
The law takes effect immediately, which means the upcoming 2025–26 seasons will likely see more Sundays open for hunting. The Pennsylvania Game Commission will be updating schedules and season frameworks over the next few weeks. Hunters should check the official PA Game Commission website for the latest updates. As soon as the dates are released, Hunterizer will update our Seasons App as well.
If you’re planning hunts this fall, it’s a good idea to:
- Keep an eye on season announcements
- Check with private landowners if you hunt non-public ground
- Make sure your license and tags are current
- Talk to your hunting buddies — schedules are about to change for the better
Final Thoughts
This move isn’t just a legal change. It’s a shift in how the state supports its hunting heritage.
For years, Pennsylvania hunters made do with limited weekend time. Now, they can plan more hunts, bring along the next generation, and stay connected to the wild places they care about — all without giving up a paycheck.
The woods just got a little more accessible. And that’s good for everyone who calls the hunt a way of life.
