Whitetail Deer Harvest Insights: State-by-State Reports for the 2025-2026 Season

As we kick off the new year in 2026, the 2025-2026 whitetail deer hunting season is well underway in many states, with preliminary data starting to emerge alongside final reports from the prior year. These insights from wildlife agencies highlight trends in harvests, population management, and hunter success. While some states provide early numbers for the current season, others reference the most recent complete data (2024-2025) as a benchmark. Below, we break down key reports from select states, focusing on total harvests, buck/doe breakdowns, and notable trends to help hunters gauge opportunities and herd health.

Kentucky

Kentucky's 2024-2025 season saw a robust total harvest of 149,868 whitetail deer across the state, including 86,071 bucks and 63,797 does. This equates to about 1.3 deer per successful hunter, with 108,320 successful hunters reported. Regional breakdowns show strong adult buck representation, with 68-72% of antlered harvests being mature bucks in most areas. For the ongoing 2025-2026 season, monthly reports indicate steady activity through September, October, and November 2025, though specific totals are pending full compilation. Population growth has been tracked since 2011, supporting stable herds despite varying regional pressures.

Louisiana

In Louisiana's 2024-2025 season, the reported harvest reached 143,527 deer—a 5% increase from the prior year—while hunter surveys estimated 239,000 total deer taken. Bucks made up 56% of the harvest, with does at 44%. Modern firearms accounted for 81% of takes, and top parishes like Union (6,686 deer) and Vernon (5,896) led the way. Trends show upward reported harvests over the past five years, but Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) detections in areas like Tensas Parish have prompted restrictions, potentially influencing future seasons. Hunter participation remains stable, with about 213,500 deer hunters afield.

Michigan

Preliminary data for Michigan's 2025 firearm deer season (November 15-30, part of the 2025-2026 overall season) shows 129,471 deer harvested during that period, including 81,344 antlered and 48,127 antlerless. Overall to date (including archery), the total sits at 214,968 deer, down about 5.2% from 2024. The Upper Peninsula saw a 12.7% drop, while the Southern Lower Peninsula held steady. Counties like Kent and Jackson topped buck harvests. Experts note possible population declines in northern regions, but statewide reporting efficiency is high, with 92% of reports submitted in under five minutes.

Ohio

Ohio's Department of Natural Resources provides weekly updates for the 2025-2026 season, though detailed totals are available via summaries. Building on the 2024-2025 harvest of over 200,000 deer (a high since 2011), early indicators suggest continued strong participation. The state emphasizes population studies, with forecasts predicting stable to increasing herds in key areas. Hunters should monitor for updates on antlered vs. antlerless breakdowns as the season progresses.

Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania's 2024-2025 harvest totaled 476,880 whitetail deer, a notable 11% increase from the previous year, driven by a 17% rise in antlerless takes (301,600 does and fawns). Antlered bucks numbered 175,280. This marks one of the highest totals in recent decades, reflecting effective management amid growing herds. For 2025-2026, preliminary trends suggest similar momentum, with agencies monitoring CWD and habitat impacts. Historical data shows consistent growth in overall big game harvests.

Virginia

Virginia's 2024-2025 season yielded 205,759 deer, slightly down 0.4% from 2023-2024 but up 4% from the 10-year average. Breakdowns include 101,238 antlered bucks and 90,837 does, with does comprising 44.1% of the total—an increase that aids in herd stabilization. Currently, 51% of deer management units exceed population goals. Early 2025-2026 data points to continued balance, with emphasis on private land management.

Wisconsin

For Wisconsin's 2025 gun deer season (November 22-30), hunters registered 182,084 whitetail deer, down 0.8% from 2024. This includes 86,068 antlered and 96,016 antlerless, with antlerless up 0.9% year-over-year. License sales dipped slightly to 790,044. Regional successes varied, with counties like Marathon and Waukesha leading. The state notes a late season start may have influenced activity, but overall herd health remains solid per metrics systems.

Wrapping Up These reports underscore the dynamic nature of whitetail management, with factors like weather, disease, and regulations shaping outcomes. States like Pennsylvania and Louisiana show harvest growth, while Michigan and Wisconsin report minor dips amid ongoing monitoring. For hunters planning late-season pursuits or next year's tags, check your state's wildlife agency for real-time updates. Stay safe and ethical in the field—happy hunting!