USDA Forest Service
 
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USDA Forest Service
Daniel Boone
National Forest
1700 Bypass Road
Winchester, KY 40391

Phone: 859-745-3100
FAX: 859-744-1568

Recreation - Hunting

Thinking about hunting somewhere new this fall? Then visit the Daniel Boone National Forest; most of the forest is open for public hunting free of charge.

A variety of game is hunted each year on the Daniel Boone National Forest. White-tailed deer, wild turkey, ruffed grouse, quail, woodcock, squirrel, rabbit, fox, raccoon, waterfowl, elk and more can be found on the forest.

If you need to site in a rifle, or just practice, visit one of our shooting ranges.

Do I need a permit to hunt on national forest land?

The requirements for hunting on national forest land in Kentucky are that you must have a valid hunting license and follow all rules and regulations set forth by the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources. State deer, elk and turkey permits are also required.

May I hunt anywhere on national forest land?

Much of the general forest area is open for hunting. Designated recreation areas and administrative sites are not open for hunting. Five wildlife management areas are located on the Daniel Boone National Forest and have special seasons and hunting regulations. These wildlife management areas are: Pioneer Weapons, Mill Creek, Cane Creek, Beaver Creek, and Redbird. Be sure to review the regulations for hunting in these areas, found in "Kentucky Deer & Small Game Hunting and Trapping Guide," available from the Kentucky Dept. of Fish and Wildlife Resources. All wildlife management area boundaries are posted with yellow signs. Check with the district offices for more information.

It is important to stay at least 150 yards from trails, roads, recreation areas, buildings, and residences. (Supervisors Order DB-07-00) Pay close attention to the boundaries; what you may think is national forest land may be private. National forest land is marked with a yellow sign with black printing. These signs will be posted along the boundary. You may also purchase Daniel Boone National Forest maps, available from the district offices or the supervisor’s office in Winchester, Kentucky.

Even though you may be within the national forest proclamation boundary, there are pockets of private land within that boundary. Abide by posted "No Hunting" and "No Trespassing" signs. Permission from the private property owner must be obtained prior to hunting.

Are the seasons different for national forest land?

The seasons set by the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources for private land are the same for Kentucky’s national forest land, except for special regulations which govern wildlife management areas. The Kentucky Hunting and Trapping Guide contains relevant information about seasons, limits, and permits required.

May I carry a gun on national forest land?

Yes, you may. The laws and regulations concerning firearms for Kentucky also apply on national forest land. Please note these exceptions:

  • You may not hunt within 150 yards of a residence, building or developed recreation site. 261.58(v), and you may not display a firearm within a developed recreation site. 261.53(e). Supervisors Order DB-07-00. Please observe the general rules of gun safety and courtesy.
  • Firearms are excluded from Wildlife Management Areas except during special designated hunting seasons.

Where can I get more information?

You can visit, call, or write any of the district offices or the supervisor’s office, or you can contact:

Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources
#1 Game Farm Road
Frankfort, KY 40601
Phone 502-564-4336

Hunter Safety Tips

  • Tell someone where you’ll be hunting.
  • Avoid outings alone. If you go alone, be extra careful and hunt in familiar areas.
  • Dress properly: be prepared for the worst conditions; protect against hypothermia.
  • Check the weather forecast before going into the woods.
  • Always wear enough blaze orange to be highly visible to other hunters.
  • Identify your target before shooting.
  • Check hunting equipment before and after each outing, and maintain it properly. Familiarize yourself with its operation before using it in the field.
  • Know all the rules and regulations set forth by the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources.
  • Learn more...

Author: Wildlife Staff
Last Updated: March 22, 2005

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