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Pennsylvania's Deer Hunting Season Welcomes Over 500,000 Hunters

11/29/2025

42 8 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

In Pennsylvania, the firearm deer hunting season runs from November 29 to December 13, with hunting permitted on two Sundays.
Over half a million hunters are expected to participate.
Last year, hunters harvested nearly 477,000 deer and donated 284,000 pounds of venison to food banks.
The Pennsylvania Game Commission says this season marks the first since new legislation allowed Sunday hunting.
Hunting is prohibited in state parks on December 7.

History

Historical Context

Pennsylvania's ban on Sunday hunting, rooted in historical blue laws dating back to William Penn's era, was lifted in 2025, allowing the Pennsylvania Game Commission to expand hunting opportunities. This change follows a 2020 law permitting three days of Sunday hunting annually. With over 500,000 hunters expected this season, the legislation reflects a growing interest in outdoor activities and community support for food security initiatives.

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Story summary

In Pennsylvania, the firearm deer hunting season runs from November 29 to December 13, with hunting permitted on two Sundays.
Over half a million hunters are expected to participate.
Last year, hunters harvested nearly 477,000 deer and donated 284,000 pounds of venison to food banks.
The Pennsylvania Game Commission says this season marks the first since new legislation allowed Sunday hunting.
Hunting is prohibited in state parks on December 7.

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