Kentucky Bear Season 2026-27
Opens in 27 daysKentucky's bear season opens 2026-10-24 and closes 2026-12-16.
Last verified September 25, 2026Kentucky wildlife agency
Zones & dates
- Opens in 27 days
Zone 2
Archery/crossbow
- Opens
- October 24, 2026
- Closes
- October 28, 2026
- Bag limit
- Zone 1 Oct 24-26; Zone 3 also Sep 19-Oct 2
- Opens in 76 days
Zone 2
Firearms
- Opens
- December 12, 2026
- Closes
- December 16, 2026
- Bag limit
- Zone 1 Dec 12-14
Key rules
- Dates and units
- Use the zone or region shown for your hunt.
- Official regulations
- Confirm license, permit, legal shooting hours, bag limits, and special requirements with the state agency before hunting.
Frequently asked questions
Kentucky's bear season opens 2026-10-24 and closes 2026-12-16.
Nearby states
Regulations change every year and can vary by county or unit. Hunting Season by State is a reference tool, not a substitute for the official regulation book — always verify dates, zones, and bag limits with the state wildlife agency before you hunt.