New Law Opens More Sundays for Pennsylvania Hunters

By Blake Jackson

The Pennsylvania Game Commission has announced expanded Sunday hunting opportunities for the 2025-26 hunting season. Starting September 14 through December 7, all Sundays that fall within existing hunting seasons will now be open for hunting.

However, migratory game bird seasons remain excluded due to federal regulations that prevent adding Sundays without reducing overall hunting days.

The authorized Sundays for hunting in 2025 are: September 14, 21, and 28; October 5, 12, 19, and 26; November 2, 9, 16, 23, and 30; and December 7. The regular firearms deer season will still conclude on Saturday, December 13. Sundays must fall within the designated start and end dates of each season to be valid for hunting.

Foxes, coyotes, and crows will continue to be huntable on previously approved Sundays.

These changes follow the signing of House Bill 1431 into law on July 9, becoming Act 36 of 2025. The law, effective September 7, repeals the longstanding ban on Sunday hunting and grants the Game Commission authority to regulate it fully.

To implement the new Sunday opportunities promptly, the Pennsylvania Board of Game Commissioners directed Executive Director Steve Smith to issue an executive order, bypassing the lengthy process of board votes that could have delayed the new dates until after most fall seasons.

Before making this decision, the Board reviewed potential effects on wildlife. Commission staff confirmed no negative impacts are expected from adding these Sundays. This careful approach ensures alignment with wildlife management goals.

Looking ahead, the 2026-27 season planning will allow Sundays to be integrated from the outset, potentially altering future season structures.

“Hunters have sought expanded Sunday hunting for decades, but state law limited the opportunities we could provide,” said Executive Director Smith. “Now, with the action taken by the General Assembly and the Governor, those restrictions finally have been lifted and the Game Commission is prepared to offer additional Sunday hunting opportunities throughout the fall hunting seasons.”

“These aren’t just extra days in the field,” Smith added. “They’re a reflection of our commitment to removing barriers, making hunting more accessible, and ensuring that Pennsylvania’s rich hunting heritage is passed on to the next generation.”

Photo Credit: pexels-jim-fawns