ODNR to Release More Than 15,000 Pheasants Statewide

October dates set for youth hunting only; statewide season begins Nov. 2

COLUMBUS, OH – The Ohio Department of Natural Resources' (ODNR) Division of Wildlife will release thousands of pheasants at 28 public hunting areas this fall. More than 15,000 ring-necked pheasants are being released to encourage pheasant hunting within the state of Ohio.

Youth-only hunts will be held Oct. 20-21 and Oct. 27-28 prior to the statewide season, which begins Friday, Nov. 2.

Ring-necked pheasants will be released on Friday, Oct. 19 and Friday, Oct. 26 in anticipation of the small-game weekends for youth hunters. Hunters age 17 and younger can hunt statewide for rabbit, pheasant and all other legal game in season during two designated weekends, Oct. 20-21 and Oct. 27-28.

Ohio's small game hunting season begins on Nov. 2, with pheasant releases to take place on Friday, Nov. 1 and the evening of Friday, Nov. 9. The final release of the fall is scheduled for the evening of Wednesday, Nov. 21 to increase pheasant hunting opportunities during the Thanksgiving holiday weekend.

Youth and regular pheasant hunting within the Ringneck Ridge Area in Sandusky County requires a free permit from the Sandusky County Park District. For more information regarding the issuance of these free hunting permits, contact the Sandusky County Park District Ranger Office at 419-334-4495 or 419-355-706.

Pheasant hunting season opens Nov. 2 and remains open through Jan. 6, 2013, with a daily bag limit of two rooster (male) birds. Statewide hunting hours are sunrise to sunset.

ODNR ensures a balance between the wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at www.ohiodnr.com.