{"id":7100,"date":"2026-07-10T10:11:35","date_gmt":"2026-07-10T10:11:35","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/?p=7100"},"modified":"2026-07-07T10:27:19","modified_gmt":"2026-07-07T10:27:19","slug":"georgia-small-game-hunting","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/georgia-small-game-hunting\/","title":{"rendered":"Georgia Small Game Season Guide for 2026: Dates, Limits, Licenses &amp; Where to Hunt"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>This guide covers confirmed 2026 season dates, license costs for residents and non-residents, land access options, and gear recommendations. Always confirm final dates and regulations at&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/georgiawildlife.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">GeorgiaWildlife.com<\/a>&nbsp;before you hunt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The guide is useful for both Georgia residents and non-resident hunters planning a legal 2026 small game season. Here&#8217;s what it covers:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Confirmed 2026 season dates &amp; bag limits<\/strong>&nbsp;for every small game species<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>License costs and requirements<\/strong>&nbsp;for residents and non-residents<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Where to hunt<\/strong>\u2014public land options plus private leases through&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Hunting Locator<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"572\" src=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/e924d9fc-b4c4-46df-bb26-c8832883b314.jpeg\" alt=\"Georgia small game\" class=\"wp-image-7107\" srcset=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/e924d9fc-b4c4-46df-bb26-c8832883b314.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/e924d9fc-b4c4-46df-bb26-c8832883b314-300x168.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/e924d9fc-b4c4-46df-bb26-c8832883b314-768x429.jpeg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Quick Overview: Georgia Small Game Seasons at a Glance<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The table below summarizes key dates, limits, and notes for every Georgia small game species. See the notes below for migratory and public land considerations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<table id=\"tablepress-500\" class=\"tablepress tablepress-id-500\">\n<thead>\n<tr class=\"row-1\">\n\t<th class=\"column-1\">Species<\/th><th class=\"column-2\">Season Dates<\/th><th class=\"column-3\">Daily Bag Limit<\/th><th class=\"column-4\">Notes<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody class=\"row-striping row-hover\">\n<tr class=\"row-2\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Squirrel<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Aug 15, 2026 \u2013 Feb 28, 2027<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">$12<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Gray &amp; fox combined; one of GA&#8217;s longest seasons<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-3\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Rabbit<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Nov 14, 2026 \u2013 Feb 28, 2027<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">12<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">\u2014<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-4\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Quail<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Nov 7, 2026 \u2013 Feb 28, 2027<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">12<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Bobwhite quail<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-5\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Ruffed Grouse<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Oct 15, 2026 \u2013 Feb 28, 2027<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">3<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Found primarily in North Georgia mountains<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-6\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Woodcock<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Dec 5, 2026 \u2013 Jan 18, 2027<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">\u2014<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Migratory \u2014 federal rules apply<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-7\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Snipe<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Nov 14, 2026 \u2013 Feb 28, 2027<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">\u2014<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Migratory \u2014 federal rules apply<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-8\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Dove (Migratory)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Sept 6 \u2013 Oct 12; Nov 22 \u2013 30; Dec 18 \u2013 Jan 31*<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">15\/day<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Segmented season; federal rules apply<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-9\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Fox &amp; Bobcat<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Dec 1 \u2013 Feb 28<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">No limit<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Furbearer<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-10\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Opossum &amp; Raccoon<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">No closed season (private land)<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">No limit<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Public land differs<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<!-- #tablepress-500 from cache -->\n\n\n<p><strong>Important notes:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Dates reflect the most recent published cycle. Always confirm final 2026\u201327 dates at&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/georgiawildlife.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">GeorgiaWildlife.com<\/a>\u2014the Georgia DNR is the official authority.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Dove and other migratory birds are subject to additional federal frameworks and season segments.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>As noted by&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.eregulations.com\/georgia\/hunting\/small-game-trapping-seasons-dates-limits\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">eRegulations<\/a>, &#8220;Hunting seasons, dates, and bag limits on WMAs, PFAs, State Parks, and federal lands may differ from those below.&#8221; Always check site-specific rules.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">License, Permit &amp; Education Requirements<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Before you head afield, here&#8217;s what you need to be legal. For species-specific rules, visit our&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/georgia-small-game-hunting-season\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">full Georgia small game hunting overview<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Hunting License:<\/strong>&nbsp;Required for all hunters pursuing small game in Georgia. Resident landowners and immediate family hunting their own property are&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/georgia-hunting-seasons\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">generally exempt<\/a>, but must still follow all season dates, bag limits, and reporting requirements. Detailed pricing is in the licenses section below.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Hunter Education:<\/strong>&nbsp;According to&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/georgiawildlife.com\/hunting\/hunter-resources\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">GeorgiaWildlife.com<\/a>, &#8220;Hunter education is required for anyone born on or after Jan. 1, 1961 before buying a license, with some exceptions.&#8221; Online and in-person formats are both accepted.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Migratory Bird Requirements (HIP):<\/strong>&nbsp;For dove, woodcock, and snipe, federal Harvest Information Program (HIP) participation is required in addition to your state license. A free Non-Resident Waterfowl &amp; Migratory Bird License is also required for applicable license holders 16 and older. Confirm current federal requirements at&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/georgiawildlife.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">GeorgiaWildlife.com<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Digital Tools:<\/strong>&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/statehunting.org\/hunting-seasons\/georgia\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Download the Outdoors GA mobile app<\/a>&nbsp;for digital licenses, check-in capabilities, and regulation updates.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Georgia Small Game Hunting Seasons<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/georgia-small-game-hunting-season\">Georgia&#8217;s small game hunting<\/a>&nbsp;spans a wide range of species and habitats\u2014hardwood ridge squirrels, brushy-field rabbits, dove fields, and grouse cover in the northern mountains. As&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/georgia-hunting-seasons\/\">Hunting Locator&#8217;s overview<\/a>&nbsp;notes, &#8220;Georgia offers abundant opportunities for hunting small game, migratory birds, and furbearers. These hunts provide extended seasons and diverse experiences for hunters.&#8221; Migratory species carry federal requirements on top of your state license, covered in the relevant sections below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"572\" src=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/a4dda976-51e5-4c89-941f-da8178d69075.jpeg\" alt=\"Georgia small game\" class=\"wp-image-7108\" srcset=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/a4dda976-51e5-4c89-941f-da8178d69075.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/a4dda976-51e5-4c89-941f-da8178d69075-300x168.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/a4dda976-51e5-4c89-941f-da8178d69075-768x429.jpeg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Squirrel Season<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Georgia squirrel season runs&nbsp;<strong>August 15, 2026 through February 28, 2027<\/strong>, with a daily bag limit of&nbsp;<strong>12 squirrels (gray and fox combined)<\/strong>.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/georgia-hunting-seasons\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Legal weapons include rimfire rifles, muzzleloaders, air guns, and shotguns<\/a>. The season is long, the population is healthy, and hardwood forest edges with mature oaks and hickories are reliable starting points for new hunters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Rabbit Season<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Georgia rabbit season opens&nbsp;<strong>November 14, 2026 and runs through February 28, 2027<\/strong>, with a daily bag limit of&nbsp;<strong>12 rabbits<\/strong>. As confirmed by&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/georgia-hunting-seasons\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Hunting Locator&#8217;s Georgia seasons guide<\/a>, this is one of the more liberal limits in the region. Brushy field margins, briar thickets, and overgrown fence rows hold rabbits throughout the state and suit hunters running beagles well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Quail Season<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Georgia quail season opens&nbsp;<strong>November 7, 2026 and closes February 28, 2027<\/strong>, with a daily bag limit of&nbsp;<strong>12 bobwhite quail<\/strong>. The season length gives both resident and traveling hunters good opportunity to work a dog over quality cover. Georgia DNR actively monitors bobwhite populations and offers a&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/georgiawildlife.com\/small-game-and-furbearers-info\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">harvest and hunter effort survey<\/a>&nbsp;for quail hunters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Ruffed Grouse Season<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Ruffed grouse season opens&nbsp;<strong>October 15, 2026 and runs through February 28, 2027<\/strong>, with a daily bag limit of&nbsp;<strong>3 birds<\/strong>. Georgia grouse are found in dense rhododendron tangles and steep hardwood draws in the northern mountains\u2014a different kind of hunting than quail or dove. The conservative bag limit reflects the species&#8217; naturally limited range within the state. Expect physical terrain and focus your efforts in the northern mountain counties.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Migratory Birds: Dove, Woodcock &amp; Snipe<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Migratory game birds require your Georgia hunting license plus HIP registration and any applicable migratory bird permits. Always verify current federal requirements at&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/georgiawildlife.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">GeorgiaWildlife.com<\/a>&nbsp;before pursuing migratory species. For a full breakdown, visit our&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/georgia-migratory-bird-hunting-season\">Georgia migratory bird hunting guide<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Georgia Dove Season 2026<\/strong>&nbsp;runs in three segments:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Early season:<\/strong>&nbsp;September 6 \u2013 October 12<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Second season:<\/strong>&nbsp;November 22 \u2013 30<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Third season:<\/strong>&nbsp;December 18 \u2013 January 31<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>The daily bag limit is&nbsp;<strong>15 doves<\/strong>. As&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/georgiawildlife.com\/small-game-and-furbearers-info\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">GeorgiaWildlife.com confirms<\/a>, &#8220;In addition to State regulations, Federal rules apply to the taking, possession, shipping, transporting, and storing of migratory game birds.&#8221;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Woodcock season<\/strong>&nbsp;runs&nbsp;<strong>December 5, 2026 through January 18, 2027<\/strong>. Woodcock favor moist, low-lying areas with young alder and birch thickets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Snipe season<\/strong>&nbsp;opens&nbsp;<strong>November 14, 2026 and closes February 28, 2027<\/strong>. Snipe are found in wet meadows and marsh edges; hunting them well takes patience and solid shooting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Furbearers: Fox, Bobcat, Raccoon &amp; Opossum<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Fox &amp; Bobcat:<\/strong>&nbsp;Season runs&nbsp;<strong>December 1 \u2013 February 28<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>no bag limit<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Raccoon &amp; Opossum:<\/strong>&nbsp;On&nbsp;<strong>private land, there is no closed season<\/strong>&nbsp;and no bag limit. On public land, regulations differ\u2014<a href=\"https:\/\/georgiawildlife.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">confirm current rules at GeorgiaWildlife.com<\/a>&nbsp;before heading out.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>As noted in&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.eregulations.com\/georgia\/hunting\/small-game-trapping-seasons-dates-limits\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">eRegulations&#8217; Georgia small game table<\/a>, public land seasons for these species may differ from private land rules. Night hunting with dogs is the traditional method for raccoon. For more detail, see our&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/georgia-furbearer-hunting-season\">Georgia furbearer hunting season guide<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Georgia Hunting Licenses and Permits<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Georgia Hunting Licenses<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Georgia offers tiered resident and non-resident licensing options. As confirmed by&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/georgia-hunting-seasons\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Hunting Locator&#8217;s Georgia hunting guide<\/a>, here&#8217;s the current cost structure:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<table id=\"tablepress-501\" class=\"tablepress tablepress-id-501\">\n<thead>\n<tr class=\"row-1\">\n\t<th class=\"column-1\">License Type<\/th><th class=\"column-2\">Who It&#8217;s For<\/th><th class=\"column-3\">Cost<\/th><th class=\"column-4\">Notes<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody class=\"row-striping row-hover\">\n<tr class=\"row-2\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Basic Annual Hunting License<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Residents<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">$15\/year<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Covers small game hunting<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-3\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Sportsman&#8217;s License<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Residents<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">$65\/year<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Broader hunting and fishing privileges<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-4\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Senior Sportsman&#8217;s License<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Residents age 65+<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">$7\/year<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Discounted combination license<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-5\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Annual Hunting License<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Non-Residents<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">$100\/year<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Covers small game hunting statewide<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-6\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Short-Term License<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Residents<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">$5\/day<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Ideal for occasional hunters<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-7\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Short-Term License<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Non-Residents<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">$20\/day<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Up to 10 consecutive days may be added<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<!-- #tablepress-501 from cache -->\n\n\n<p>Non-resident annual license pricing is confirmed at&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.hunter-ed.com\/blog\/cost-to-get-a-georgia-hunting-license\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">$100<\/a>. Licenses can be purchased online at&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/georgiawildlife.com\/licenses-permits-passes\/help\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">GoOutdoorsGeorgia.com<\/a>, through a local license agent, or by calling 800-366-2661. Always verify current pricing directly with Georgia DNR, as fees are subject to change.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"572\" src=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/20934770-8613-4659-8e33-4d985918bade.jpeg\" alt=\"Georgia small game\" class=\"wp-image-7109\" srcset=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/20934770-8613-4659-8e33-4d985918bade.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/20934770-8613-4659-8e33-4d985918bade-300x168.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/20934770-8613-4659-8e33-4d985918bade-768x429.jpeg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Georgia Hunting Permits<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Beyond your base license, certain situations and species require additional permits or registrations:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Migratory Bird Hunting (HIP):<\/strong>&nbsp;Required for anyone pursuing dove, woodcock, snipe, or waterfowl. HIP registration is typically free and can be completed when purchasing your license.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Non-Resident Waterfowl &amp; Migratory Bird License:<\/strong>&nbsp;Required for Sportsman&#8217;s license holders age 16 and over pursuing migratory birds. This is a&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.gooutdoorsgeorgia.com\/ViewPackage.aspx?pid=12&amp;lrtid=2&amp;annual=0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">free license<\/a>&nbsp;but must be obtained before hunting.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Federal Duck Stamp:<\/strong>&nbsp;Required for all hunters age 16 and older pursuing migratory waterfowl.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>WMA Quota Hunts:<\/strong>&nbsp;Some Wildlife Management Areas run quota hunts requiring a separate application and permit. Check site-specific listings at&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/georgiawildlife.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">GeorgiaWildlife.com<\/a>&nbsp;well in advance.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Hunter Education Card:<\/strong>&nbsp;If you were born on or after January 1, 1961, carry your&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/georgiawildlife.com\/hunting\/hunter-resources\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">hunter education certification<\/a>&nbsp;in the field\u2014it&#8217;s required for hunters ages 16\u201325.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Georgia Small Game: Where to Hunt<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best Public Lands<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/statehunting.org\/hunting-seasons\/georgia\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Georgia&#8217;s WMA system<\/a>&nbsp;includes &#8220;over 100 Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) spanning more than one million acres, plus private lands and national forests.&#8221; Small game and furbearers on WMAs may generally be hunted under&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.eregulations.com\/georgia\/hunting\/wma-regulations-i-p\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">statewide seasons and bag limits<\/a>, &#8220;except during quota hunts and unless otherwise specified in a specific area listing.&#8221;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Strong public land options for Georgia small game hunters include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Chattahoochee National Forest (North Georgia)<\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 Ruffed grouse and squirrel habitat in the mountainous northern tier; access is generally open under standard national forest rules.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Piedmont WMA<\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 Diverse habitat in the central Piedmont supporting squirrel, rabbit, and quail.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Ocmulgee WMA<\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 Large central Georgia tract with good small game variety including rabbit and squirrel.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Alapaha WMA<\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 South Georgia bottomland with rabbit and squirrel hunting across a mix of pine and hardwood habitat.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Chickasawhatchee WMA<\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 Southwest Georgia swamp and hardwood habitat, popular for squirrel and raccoon.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Oconee National Forest<\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 Central Georgia forest system with dispersed access for squirrel and rabbit hunters.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Always confirm site-specific rules and any applicable quota hunt requirements at&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/georgiawildlife.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">GeorgiaWildlife.com<\/a>&nbsp;before visiting any WMA.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"572\" src=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/ab1b4927-1e88-4234-8515-e71623383300.jpeg\" alt=\"Georgia small game\" class=\"wp-image-7110\" srcset=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/ab1b4927-1e88-4234-8515-e71623383300.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/ab1b4927-1e88-4234-8515-e71623383300-300x168.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/ab1b4927-1e88-4234-8515-e71623383300-768x429.jpeg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Private Land Hunting with Hunting Locator<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Public land is accessible, but private land typically means less pressure, more flexibility, and habitat you can scout and manage on your own schedule. For hunters without landowner connections, leasing is the most direct path to consistent private access. Lease arrangements range from single-season agreements to year-round access with camping and fishing privileges.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/fieldreport.caes.uga.edu\/publications\/C971\/tips-for-creating-a-hunting-lease-agreement\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">In 2022, deer hunting leases in Georgia averaged approximately $16.00 per acre, ranging from $10.00 to $30.00 or more<\/a>\u2014a useful benchmark when evaluating small game lease pricing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Hunting Locator<\/a>&nbsp;connects hunters directly with landowners ready to lease or sell, with a searchable database of verified Georgia hunting properties filterable by acreage, location, game type, and price. Hunters regularly report securing leases within two weeks of joining the platform.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Browse current&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/leases\/state\/georgia\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Georgia hunting leases on Hunting Locator<\/a>&nbsp;to find land for your 2026 season\u2014from dove fields in the southern agricultural belt to squirrel and rabbit country in the central hardwoods.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Guided Hunts<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>For non-resident hunters making a first trip to Georgia, or anyone targeting a specific species, a guided hunt is worth considering. A good guide brings local knowledge, established land access, and species-specific experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Georgia has guided small game options worth exploring, particularly for:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Dove hunting<\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 Guides provide field access, decoys, and setup for the high-volume early-season shoots Georgia is known for. The segmented season gives out-of-state hunters multiple trip windows.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Quail hunting<\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 Guided quail hunts typically include trained pointing dogs, bird boys, and access to managed habitat. This is one of Georgia&#8217;s most established guided experiences.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Rabbit hunting<\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 Some guides offer beagle-assisted hunts on private land for hunters who want the full experience without running their own pack.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\">Hunting Locator&#8217;s outfitter and guide directory<\/a>&nbsp;connects hunters with experienced Georgia guides offering small game packages across the state. For waterfowl-adjacent guided options, see our&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/georgia-waterfowl-hunting-season\">Georgia waterfowl hunting season guide<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Small Game Hunting Tips for Georgia Success<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Stock up on the right gear at the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.huntinglocator.com\/store\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Hunting Locator Store<\/a>&nbsp;before the season opens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Start with squirrel<\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 Georgia squirrel season opens August 15, ahead of every other small game species. Those early weeks are useful for sharpening woods reading, shot selection, and patience before the rest of the calendar fills in. A&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.huntinglocator.com\/store\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">.22 LR rifle or a light 20-gauge shotgun<\/a>&nbsp;handles most situations cleanly.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Scout dove fields before the September opener<\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 The September 6 opener draws some of the highest hunter participation of any Georgia small game day. Scout cut grain fields and water sources in late August. A&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.huntinglocator.com\/store\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">12-gauge or 20-gauge semi-auto with a modified choke<\/a>&nbsp;and quality dove loads gives you good pattern density and fast follow-up shots.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Use dogs for rabbit and quail<\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 Dogs cover ground faster, push game into open shooting lanes, and make the day more productive. A well-fitted&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.huntinglocator.com\/store\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">blaze orange vest for both hunter and dog<\/a>&nbsp;keeps everyone visible in thick cover.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Go prepared for North Georgia grouse<\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 Target north-facing slopes with young forest growth in the dense rhododendron and hardwood draws of the northern mountains. A lightweight&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.huntinglocator.com\/store\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">20-gauge side-by-side or over\/under<\/a>&nbsp;handles well in tight cover where shots come quickly and close.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Keep your digital licenses current<\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 Download the Outdoors GA app and store your digital license before you leave the truck. It keeps you compliant and delivers regulation updates if questions come up in the field.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Scout private land before opening day<\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 If you&#8217;ve secured a lease through&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/leases\/state\/georgia\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Hunting Locator<\/a>, get on the property early. Identify food sources, travel corridors, and water before the season opens.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Layer up for late-season hunts<\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 Grouse, woodcock, and the late dove segment run into December and January. Quality&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.huntinglocator.com\/store\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">base layers, a mid-layer fleece, and a waterproof outer shell<\/a>&nbsp;keep you comfortable on cold Georgia mornings.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">More Resources from Hunting Locator<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/georgia-hunting-season-guide\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Georgia Hunting Season Guide<\/a>&nbsp;\u2013 The complete master guide covering all major Georgia hunting seasons.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/georgia-small-game-hunting-season\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Georgia Small Game Hunting Season<\/a>&nbsp;\u2013 A detailed companion to this guide covering small game species, regulations, and access strategies.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/georgia-migratory-bird-hunting-season\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Georgia Migratory Bird Hunting Season<\/a>&nbsp;\u2013 Dove, woodcock, snipe, and all Georgia migratory bird seasons, including federal regulation guidance.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/georgia-waterfowl-hunting-season\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Georgia Waterfowl Hunting Season<\/a>&nbsp;\u2013 Duck and goose seasons, zone information, and public\/private land access.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/georgia-deer-hunting-season\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Georgia Deer Hunting Season<\/a>&nbsp;\u2013 All deer-specific dates, licenses, and access options.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/georgia-turkey-hunting-season\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Georgia Turkey Hunting Season<\/a>&nbsp;\u2013 Spring and fall turkey seasons, including public land access and private lease opportunities.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/georgia-bear-hunting-season\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Georgia Bear Hunting Season<\/a>&nbsp;\u2013 North Georgia bear seasons, quota hunt information, and permit requirements.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/georgia-alligator-hunting-season\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Georgia Alligator Hunting Season<\/a>&nbsp;\u2013 Alligator hunting permits, zones, and methods.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/georgia-feral-hog-hunting-season\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Georgia Feral Hog Hunting Season<\/a>&nbsp;\u2013 Feral hog regulations, methods, and land access.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/georgia-furbearer-hunting-season\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Georgia Furbearer Hunting Season<\/a>&nbsp;\u2013 Fox, bobcat, raccoon, and opossum seasons and regulations in detail.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/leases\/state\/georgia\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Georgia Hunting Leases on Hunting Locator<\/a>&nbsp;\u2013 Browse current private land lease listings, searchable by location, acreage, and game type.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.huntinglocator.com\/store\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Hunting Locator Store<\/a>&nbsp;\u2013 Gear for every species and season.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">When does Georgia squirrel season open in 2026?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Georgia squirrel season opens&nbsp;<strong>August 15, 2026<\/strong>&nbsp;and runs through&nbsp;<strong>February 28, 2027<\/strong>. The daily bag limit is 12 squirrels (gray and fox combined). Legal weapons include rimfire rifles, muzzleloaders, air guns, and shotguns.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How much does a Georgia hunting license cost for residents and non-residents?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Georgia residents pay&nbsp;<strong>$15<\/strong>&nbsp;for a basic annual hunting license,&nbsp;<strong>$65<\/strong>&nbsp;for a Sportsman&#8217;s License, or&nbsp;<strong>$7<\/strong>&nbsp;for a Senior Sportsman&#8217;s License (age 65 and older). Non-residents pay&nbsp;<strong>$100<\/strong>&nbsp;for an annual hunting license, with short-term options at&nbsp;<strong>$5 per day for residents<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>$20 per day for non-residents<\/strong>. Licenses are available at&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/georgiawildlife.com\/licenses-permits-passes\/help\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">GoOutdoorsGeorgia.com<\/a>, through local agents, or by calling 800-366-2661.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Do I need extra permits to hunt dove in Georgia?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes. Dove is a migratory species, so in addition to your Georgia hunting license you must register in the federal&nbsp;<strong>Harvest Information Program (HIP)<\/strong>. Non-residents may also need a free&nbsp;<strong>Non-Resident Waterfowl &amp; Migratory Bird License<\/strong>. Georgia dove season 2026 runs in three segments: September 6 \u2013 October 12, November 22 \u2013 30, and December 18 \u2013 January 31, with a daily bag limit of 15. Confirm current federal requirements at&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/georgiawildlife.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">GeorgiaWildlife.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can I hunt raccoon and opossum year-round in Georgia?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>On&nbsp;<strong>private land<\/strong>, yes\u2014raccoon and opossum have no closed season and no bag limit. On&nbsp;<strong>public land<\/strong>, different rules apply. Confirm current public land rules at&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/georgiawildlife.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">GeorgiaWildlife.com<\/a>&nbsp;before hunting these species on WMAs or other public properties.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Do I need hunter education to hunt small game in Georgia?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you were born on or after&nbsp;<strong>January 1, 1961<\/strong>,&nbsp;hunter education is required before purchasing a hunting license, with some limited exceptions. Both online and in-person formats are accepted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How do I find private land to hunt small game in Georgia?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/leases\/state\/georgia\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Hunting Locator&#8217;s Georgia lease listings<\/a>&nbsp;let you search verified private land available for seasonal lease by location, acreage, and game type. The platform connects you directly with landowners, and hunters regularly report securing leases within two weeks of joining. For longer-term access, Hunting Locator also connects buyers with landowners interested in selling hunting property.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Planning Your 2026 Season<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Georgia&#8217;s small game calendar runs from August squirrels through late-February quail and grouse, with dove, woodcock, snipe, and furbearers filling in across the fall and winter. Lock down your license, confirm your dates, and sort out land access before the season opens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For private land,&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/leases\/state\/georgia\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">search Georgia hunting leases on Hunting Locator<\/a>&nbsp;and connect with landowners ready to welcome hunters this season.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Georgia small game season is an interesting one! Read more here. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":10,"featured_media":7105,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[4],"tags":[115,68,10,111,189,16,200],"class_list":["post-7100","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-hunting-seasons","tag-dove","tag-hunting","tag-hunting-seasons","tag-quail","tag-rabbit","tag-season-dates","tag-small-game-hunting"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7100","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/10"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=7100"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7100\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":7111,"href":"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7100\/revisions\/7111"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/7105"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=7100"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=7100"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=7100"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}