Plan to apply for Ohio controlled hunts in July

COLUMBUS — Applications for hunting opportunities on controlled public lands in Ohio will be accepted beginning July 1, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Wildlife.

These hunts provide special opportunities for hunters to pursue deer, waterfowl, doves and more on public lands during the 2022-23 season. The application period is open for all hunters until July 31. Controlled hunts take place in select areas of Ohio and are available through the Division of Wildlife and the Division of Parks and Boats.

Available hunts for the 2022-23 season include deer, waterfowl, doves, pheasants, squirrels and quail. The Wildlife Division offers hunts for adults, youth, people with reduced mobility and mentors with trainees. Firearms and archery options are available.

Hunters can apply for controlled hunts by completing the application process online using the Ohio Wildlife Licensing System or by calling 1-800-703-1928. There is a $5.50 service fee for the phone option. Each hunt requires payment of a $3 non-refundable application fee. Clients can apply for more than one hunt, but can only apply for each hunt once a year.

All applicants, youth and adults, must possess a valid Ohio hunting license and meet age requirements. Junior hunters must be under the age of 18 at the time of the hunt to participate. Adults must be 18 years or older at the time of application. Those applying to hunt deer will also need a valid deer permit to apply.

Find more information at wildohio.gov on the controlled hunting page.

Participants may use a deer management permit during controlled deer hunts. Deer management permits are $15 and can be used to hunt antlerless deer only. Deer management permits are valid on private land and select public hunting areas through Nov. 27. They are also valid during authorized controlled hunts between September 10 and February 5, 2023.

Hunters are randomly drawn from submitted requests. Selected applicants will be notified and provided additional information about the hunt by August 8, including a permit, rules, and a map of the hunt area.

Each controlled hunt opportunity is unique, and applicants are encouraged to thoroughly review all site-specific information, including rules and requirements, before applying. Application statuses can be viewed through the Ohio Wildlife Licensing System.

Explore detailed information about each hunting area, its habitats and its species through the Find a Destination web page at ohiodnr.gov. For more information about hunting in Ohio, download the HuntFish OH mobile app or visit wildohio.gov. Follow Your Wild Ohio Hunter’s Facebook page for hunting tips and helpful information as this season comes out.