Hunting is one of the primary forms of entertainment in the Midwestern region of the United States. It helps regulate the populations of different animals and preserve species diversity. Among the many places, the Ohio forests are best suited for hunting. They are full of living creatures that can become good trophies for any hunter. We invite you to study the features of hunting in the state, consider popular locations and determine the most popular game.
Features of hunting in the Ohio forests
Ohio is known for its abundant plains and areas where people carry out agricultural activities. They are found in most territories, and forests occupy the remaining free space. They are pretty diverse in Ohio, and they can be used for hunting in almost all cases. While preparing for this event, studying all the small nuances in detail is necessary. This approach will allow you to avoid various troubles and get the most out of the process.
In order to legally hunt in the forests of Ohio, you must have a standard hunting license and a special permit for shooting certain species of animals. The latter is paid, so hunters must be prepared for additional expenses. Among other features of local hunting legislation, it is necessary to highlight the need to use only certain weapons and cartridges. This rule does not apply to all game types, so you must determine your priority goals in advance and carefully study the rules for hunting a particular animal. Also, do not forget about observing the ban on shooting certain species, which are rare representatives of the fauna.
Hunting in the forests of Ohio is always unpredictable. In some cases, you will be able to get several valuable trophies, and in others, you will have to be left empty-handed. In this regard, you must come to the state to hunt for at least a week. In Ohio, as in most other states, night hunting is allowed. However, before you go on it, you need to study the local rules for using thermal imaging devices and other optics. This is the only way to avoid problems with the law and get the opportunity to enjoy your favorite pastime fully.
You can hunt in the forests of Ohio all year round. Considering the weather features of a particular time of year is essential. In summer, most of the state is always hot and humid; winter is cold. In this regard, many call spring and autumn the best time for hunting. However, do not forget about the hunting seasons for different species of animals, so you always need to adapt to the rules regarding your priority game. Precipitation in Ohio is not a rare occurrence. It interferes with hunters, mainly in the warm season. Snowstorms also often occur in the state.
Famous hunting locations
Shawnee State Forest
This location is the most popular among hunters. It is located on the territory of Scioto and Adams counties, occupying an area of more than 60 thousand acres. Shawnee is the largest such object in Ohio. Wildlife reigns here, which is distinguished by the maximum species diversity. Hunting, fishing, and collecting various nature gifts are allowed on the territory of this location. For hunters, Shawnee is attractive for its large population of White-tailed deer. This animal is a tangible symbol of the state, so everyone who comes to Ohio with a gun is obliged to get it. In addition to them, there are many wild turkeys, squirrels, hazel grouse and raccoons. They will all help diversify the hunt and make this event as exciting as possible.
Wayne National Forest
This famous forest is located in the southeast of the state. It is a National Forest, which is unique for Ohio. This object has an area of 240 thousand acres. It is located in several counties at once, so getting to it from any part of the state will be easy. The main feature of Wayne is its hilly terrain, which is not typical for other similar objects in Ohio. Due to this, many animals are found in the forest, most of which can be hunted. The most popular here are different types of deer, beavers, and wild turkeys. Also, you can meet hawks and osprey in Wayne, mainly near local lakes.
Zaleski State Forest
This relatively small property is located in Vinton and Athens counties. It covers an area of only 28 thousand acres, but despite its relative compactness, this forest is one of the best places for hunters. Here, this activity is allowed only during specific periods, so you must carefully monitor compliance with existing regulations. In Zaleski State Forest, you can hunt a wide variety of game. The most popular of them are birds such as wild turkeys and grouse. Among other representatives of the fauna, white-tailed deer, rabbits and raccoons are popular with hunters. It should also be noted that many rare species live in this forest, so you should take shots only after you have identified the target.
Hocking State Forest
This forest in Hocking County is a great place for wildlife lovers. There are many picturesque places where you can enjoy beautiful views, breathe in clean air and forget about the city noise for a while. Waterfalls, rock formations, and much more are on the territory of this object. All of them become an ideal habitat for various animals. In Hocking State Forest, hunting is allowed for almost all game types. You need to have the desire to follow the existing rules. Deer are always the main trophies of all hunters who come to this forest. Rabbits, wild turkeys, squirrels, and grouses are often hunted here. The opossum should be highlighted Among the exotic animals allowed to hunt in Hocking.
Popular game animals
White-tailed deer
The most popular animal among hunters who come to Ohio is the White-tailed deer. It is a medium-sized deer and lives almost throughout the entire state. This mammal easily stands out from other ungulates with its white tail, which it raises in case of danger. The White-tailed deer feeds on vegetation, so you need to look for it in the state’s dense forests. They also sometimes enter agricultural lands to feast on fruits and corn. The hunting season for these mammals is open from December 2 to December 8, 2024. During this time, animals can be killed by permitted types of firearms. The hunting season is open for bowhunters from September 28 to February 2.
Coyote
Among the many hunting species, the coyote is the most exciting opponent. It is intelligent, cunning and extremely cautious, so only true professionals can track it down in the Ohio forests. This animal is a predator. It feeds on various mammals and kills its victims in much the same way as wolves. Coyotes are common throughout the state. They settle mainly in open, flat areas in the middle of the forest. It is rare to meet them in dense thickets. The excellent news for hunting enthusiasts is that you can shoot coyotes all year round. At the same time, you must never forget to comply with current rules and laws regarding the choice of weapons and ammunition.
Wild boar
Wild boars are very common in Ohio forests. These animals, which are close relatives of the domestic pig, live throughout the state. They live in groups and inhabit mainly heavily overgrown areas. It is best to look for them in places with many bushes and at least one body of water. Wild boars in Ohio are often found in oak, beech and mixed forests. Since these animals are pests that usually enter fields and destroy crops, they can be hunted all year round. It is best to do this from late summer to mid-winter. At this time, the chances of a successful hunt will be the highest.
Wild turkey
Since ancient times, there have been many wild turkeys in the forests of Ohio. They have adapted well to the local forests and become one of the most popular game types. These birds are common wherever there is a deciduous or mixed forest. You should look for them near small open areas and agricultural lands. Wild turkeys are also frequent guests on the banks of rivers and in swampy areas. The hunting season for these birds opens on April 27 and lasts 30 days. In some parts of Ohio, it is extended until mid-May. You can shoot wild turkeys only with legally permitted weapons, so you should be careful when preparing for the hunt.
Hunting in the Ohio forests is always interesting. They are home to many game animals, which can be excellent prey for beginners and professionals. To increase your chances of success, you must carefully prepare for the hunt, choose a suitable location in advance, and study the features of shooting animals in the state. In our article, we briefly told you about all this, so we hope you will get your desired trophy in the Ohio forests shortly.
