Pennsylvania hunters will soon be able to take to the woods on Sundays throughout the fall, following a landmark vote by the Pennsylvania Game Commission to expand hunting access on those days.
The decision, announced earlier this week, adds 13 Sundays to the 2025 hunting calendar beginning September 14 and running through December 7. The new Sunday hunting dates fall within established seasons, except for migratory game birds due to federal restrictions that would reduce overall hunting days.
The approved Sunday dates include every Sunday between mid-September and early December, a significant increase from the limited number of Sundays previously permitted.
The commission said the move is aimed at removing barriers to participation and making hunting more accessible to Pennsylvania residents, particularly those who are unable to hunt on Saturdays due to work or other obligations.
For decades, Sunday hunting had been heavily restricted in Pennsylvania, with only a few days allowed in recent years. The new policy follows years of advocacy by hunters and conservation groups.
The change takes effect this September and applies to deer, small game, and other species as permitted under existing state seasons.
Key Points
- The Pennsylvania Game Commission approved expanded Sunday hunting from September 14 through December 7
- Sundays were added within existing hunting seasons, excluding migratory game birds
- The change marks a significant step after decades of effort to repeal restrictions on Sunday hunting
Expanded Sunday hunting gives Pennsylvania sportsmen and women more time in the field during the peak fall season.