Hunters still have several days of small game season

ALBANY — 

Although deer season has closed, and turkey season is almost two months away, there’s still a small window of opportunity to keep hunting for a few more days. Georgia’s small game seasons are open through Feb. 28. Small game species covered under this category include fox, bobcat, grouse, quail, rabbit, raccoon, opossum and squirrel.

For those who do not have access to private land, Georgia hunters are fortunate to have access to more than 1 million acres of public land, including more than 100 Wildlife Management Areas, where small game hunting is typically allowed. On these properties, hunting seasons, including dates and bag limits on Wildlife Management Areas, Public Fishing Areas, state parks and federal lands may differ, so it is necessary to check the regulations for each site online or in the regulation book for site-specific information.

For those who hunt on private property and have been cussing the predations of squirrels and raccoons on their deer feeders, now is a great time to get even and harvest some of these corn-fed fatties. If you have turkey on your property, it is also an excellent opportunity to harvest predators, including raccoon, opossum, bobcat and fox, prior to the nesting season. Recent studies indicate that an unintended consequence of supplemental feeding of deer is an increase in these nest predators, particularly when feeding is not done on a year-round basis.

Unless otherwise specified, it is lawful to train dogs for the hunting of small game or fur-bearers on WMAs when a particular WMA has an open season for that small game species. Some WMAs allow bird dog training year-round during daylight hours, including pigeons and pen-raised quail for the training of pointing, flushing and retrieving in designated areas. Dog trainers must have proof of purchase for the pen-raised quail they are using for this training. Shotguns may be used to harvest the released quail using No. 6 or smaller shot. Other restrictions may be in place, so it is advisable to check the specific site regulations.

For those hunting or visiting the WMAs, it is advisable to read the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ regulations relating to lawful and unlawful activities on the properties. Many activities permitted on private property are not legal on WMAs. These regulations are not overly restrictive and are aimed at public safety and conservation.

Now is a great time to scout areas for next season. Scrapes and rubs are still evident, and the brush has not greened up, making it easier to get an idea what the area will look like next season. If you plan to hunt Georgia’s WMAs, camping and hiking are generally open year-round, so it’s a great way to get a jump on the next season.

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