Pennsylvania hunters are enjoying a rare opportunity: three consecutive Sundays of legal hunting, beginning this weekend. The Pennsylvania Game Commission has granted these special allowances for in-season hunting, marking a significant shift in the state’s traditionally strict Sunday hunting restrictions.
This weekend, archers can pursue deer and bear in select wildlife management units, including 2B (Allegheny County area), 5B (York, Lancaster, and Lebanon areas), 5C (Lehigh and Berks Counties), and 5D (Delaware and Philadelphia Counties). For all hunters, species like squirrel, pheasant, rabbit, and grouse are also fair game. However, turkey and migratory game birds remain off-limits during these Sundays.
The following Sundays bring even more excitement for outdoor enthusiasts. Next weekend, bear season officially opens, while the final Sunday of the three will kick off rifle deer season. Hunters on private lands are reminded to carry written permission from landowners.
These Sundays of hunting align with growing calls to lift Pennsylvania’s longstanding Sunday hunting ban. Advocates argue the restrictions are outdated and limit recreational opportunities for those who can only hunt on weekends. The Pennsylvania Game Commission has been vocal about its support for the change, with Communications Director Travis Lau expressing hope for progress.
A bill to lift the ban passed the State House in June but stalled in the Senate before the legislative session ended. Hunters and conservationists are optimistic that the bill will be reintroduced in the new year’s legislative session.
For now, Pennsylvania hunters are encouraged to enjoy the next three Sundays to the fullest. Share your experiences with hashtags like #SundayHuntingPA, #PAHuntersUnite, and #HuntForChange to spread awareness and support this potential shift in hunting law.
Whether you’re pursuing game or simply supporting the movement, these Sundays are a big step for Pennsylvania’s hunting community—and possibly for future generations.
