Deer Hunting in Guernsey County, Ohio

Deer hunting is a popular recreational activity in Guernsey County, Ohio.

Located in eastern Ohio, Guernsey County is a popular deer hunting location. Nicknamed the Buckeye State, deer are an integral part of Ohio. In fact, the Buckeye tree was named for its nut, which is reminiscent of a deer's eye. Deer hunting regulations are administered by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.

Zones

Ohio developed a three-zone system dictating how many deer may be taken by a hunter in each county. Guernsey County is considered part of Deer Hunting Zone C. As of 2010, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources posted a six-deer limit per hunter in Zone C. The six-deer limit specifically includes a maximum of three antlerless deer.

Season

As of 2010, deer hunting season in Guernsey County extends from Sept. 25 until Feb. 6. Antlerless deer may only be hunted until Dec. 5. Regulations vary based on the type of weapon used. Archery may be used throughout deer hunting season. Muzzleloaders may be used from Oct. 18 until Oct. 23 and from Jan. 8 until Jan. 11. Guns may be used from Nov. 29 until Dec. 5 and from Dec. 18 until Dec. 19. Youth guns may be used on Nov. 20 and Nov. 21.

License

The two types of deer permits available are antlered and antlerless. Hunters must also possess a general Ohio hunting license. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources defines an antlered deer as having at least one antler that is at least three inches long. An antlerless deer does not have antlers or has antlers less than three inches long. As of 2010, a deer hunting permit costs $24 and an antlerless deer permit costs $15.

Public Areas

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Division of Wildlife, oversees deer hunting in the Salt Fork and Egypt Valley Wildlife Areas in Guernsey County. The Salt Fork Wildlife Area offers 12,000 acres of hunting terrain. The Egypt Valley Wildlife Area offers 14,300 acres of hunting terrain between Guernsey County and neighboring Belmont County.

Procedures

All deer must be tagged and presented at an official deer check station. Hunters attach a temporary tag until a permanent tag is received at an official deer check station. Hunters attach a temporary tag when the deer is killed. As of 2010, 10 official deer check stations operate in Guernsey County.

References

• Ohio Department of Natural Resources: Hunting/Deer Hunting
• Ohio Department of Natural Resources: Find a Checkstation
• Deer Hunters Club: Ohio Deer Hunting
• Ohio Department of Natural Resources: Salt Fork Wildlife Area
• Ohio Department of Natural Resources: Egypt Valley Wildlife Area