Each year, the Ohio Division of Wildlife offers a limited number of controlled hunting access permits, granting lucky applicants the chance to hunt prime, state-owned locations otherwise off-limits to the public. If you’re serious about pursuing white-tailed deer, waterfowl, dove, turkey, small game or trapping furbearers, now’s the time to plan your application strategy.
These permits are in high demand, but applying is straightforward and affordable.
If you live in Ohio or a nearby state such as Indiana, Michigan or Pennsylvania, here’s everything you need to know to get in on the 2025 Ohio Controlled Access Lotteries.
Species Covered in Ohio’s Hunting Lotteries
Permits are available for:
- White-Tailed Deer
- Waterfowl & Waterfowl Blinds
- Dove & Quail
- Ring-Necked Pheasant
- Small Game
- Turkey
- Trapping (Beaver, Otter, Raccoon and Furbearers)
Application Windows for 2025 Permits
- Deer, Waterfowl, Dove, Small Game & Waterfowl Blinds: Apply July 1–31
- Trapping & Furbearer Lotteries: In-person only on the first Saturday of October at Ohio’s five wildlife district offices.
- The window for turkey hunts (March 1–31) has passed.
Each application costs just $3 online or $5.50 by phone. You may apply for each hunt once per year, and you must hold a valid hunting license for the species you’re targeting.
Who Can Apply?
Ohio’s lottery hunts are open to a variety of participants:
- Youth Hunters (under 18 at time of application and hunt)
- Adult Hunters
- Mentor & Mentee Teams
- Mobility-Impaired Hunters
- Veterans
- Open Category (for general applicants)
Mentor hunts are a great way to introduce someone new to hunting. If your mentee hasn’t harvested that species in the past 5 years (or is under 18), you both can join the hunt if selected.
How to Apply for Ohio Hunting Lotteries
- Visit the Ohio Wildlife Licensing System or use the HuntFish OH mobile app.
- Log in using your Customer ID (found on your hunting/fishing license).
- Select the lottery hunt(s) you want to apply for during the correct month.
- Pay your application fee.
- Wait for your results (drawings occur the week after each application window ends).
How Will I Know If I’m Drawn?
Successful applicants will receive an email notification and can also:
- Check results through their online account
- View and download their permit, hunt map and rules
- Print or digitally store the permit for the hunt day
You’ll need to study your unit map, understand the specific rules of your assigned hunt and show up prepared.
A Reminder on Permit Transfer Rules
Under Ohio Administrative Code 1501:31-15-06, it is illegal to sell, trade or barter a controlled hunt permit. Permits may only be transferred if nothing is received in return. Violators risk losing their permits and facing enforcement action.
Can I Bring My Dog?
In most cases, yes, dogs are allowed during controlled hunts unless the species being pursued prohibits it. Always consult the Ohio Hunting & Trapping Regulations or the specific hunt rules provided with your permit.
Next Steps After You’re Drawn
- Print or store your digital permit
- Read the rules and confirm your assigned unit
- Know the hunt dates and location
- Call 1-800-WILDLIFE with any questions about your hunt
Let AimHi Help Gear You Up
From scouting tools to ammo, optics and firearms, AimHi Family Firearms Center is your trusted shop for hunting season prep. If you’re selected for a controlled access hunt or planning to apply, stop by our facility in New Albany or our online shop to make sure you’re fully outfitted and ready.