HARRISBURG, Pa.- It’s almost go-time for Pennsylvania’s hunters.

The opening day for Pennsylvania’s 2026-27 hunting season is fast approaching.

“For hunters, we’re entering the best time of the year,” said Game Commission Executive Director Stephen Smith in a news release.

“The early season is upon us, marking the beginning of the new license year, a time when hunters across the state are making plans and preparing for all our exciting seasons ahead. On behalf of the Pennsylvania Game Commission, we wish all hunters a safe and successful year ahead,” Smith added.

Tuesday, Sept. 1, 2026, marks the beginning of statewide seasons for both Canada geese and mourning doves.

The Canada goose season runs Sept. 1-25 in most of the state. Mourning dove season begins Sept. 1 and continues through Nov. 27.

The start of deer season isn’t far behind. Statewide archery deer season gets underway on Oct. 3. The statewide rifle season begins on Nov. 28, the Saturday after Thanksgiving. 

The game commission’s board previously was considering a proposal to move the 2026-2027 season a week earlier but ultimately voted 6-3 to reject that plan and move ahead with a proposal that largely mirrors last year’s season.

Click here for a list of all 2026-2027 hunting season dates and bag limits. 

In the meantime, the Game Commission is also announcing a pair of tech updates. 

The agency has upgraded its online mapping center, which is a tool that allows users to view, customize, and print maps of State Game Lands, wildlife management units, and hunting zones across Pennsylvania.

According to the Game Commission, the new version includes a more user-friendly interface; faster access to maps and information; live data; and improved search and navigation features.

In addition, the Game Commission is alerting hunters that its current mobile app has been deactivated. The agency’s new “HuntFishPA” mobile app will be managed in conjunction with the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission and aims to provide a digital one-stop shop for hunters and anglers.

The new app is expected to launch in 2027.