Raccoon Hunting in Kentucky

Raccoon hunting in Kentucky is a popular pastime for many people. The state is home to a large population of raccoons, and hunting them can be a great way to get outdoors and enjoy the scenery. If you’re thinking about going raccoon hunting in Kentucky, there are a few things you should know first. In this blog post, we will cover everything you need to know about raccoon hunting in Kentucky, from regulations to tips and tricks.

Raccoon Hunting Laws in Kentucky

In Kentucky, raccoon hunting is only legal during specific seasons and with the proper permits. The hunting season for raccoons typically runs from mid-October to early February, but dates can vary depending on the county. A hunting license and a permit from the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources are required to hunt raccoons.

There are several methods that can be used to hunt raccoons, but the most common is dogsledding. This involves using dogs to track and chase down the animal. Other methods include traps, baiting, and shooting.

When hunting with dogs, it is important to be familiar with the laws regarding dog use. Dogs must be under the direct supervision of the hunter at all times. They also must be leashed when not actively pursuing game. It is illegal to allow dogs to run free in areas where hunting is taking place.

Trapping is another popular method of raccoon hunting. Traps must be placed in areas where there is evidence of recent raccoon activity, such as tracks or droppings. Once a trap has been set, it must be checked every 24 hours and any animals that are caught must be humanely euthanized.

Baiting is also an option when hunting raccoons. However, this method is only legal if the bait is placed more than 100 yards away from any dwelling or occupied area. Baits that are commonly used include marshmallows, bread, fruit, and bacon grease.

Do you need a license to hunt Raccoons in Kentucky?

In Kentucky, you need a hunting license to hunt raccoons. You can get a hunting license from the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources. The cost of a hunting license varies depending on the type of license you get. A basic hunting license for residents costs $10. A non-resident hunting license costs $50. You can also get a lifetime hunting license for residents and non-residents. The cost of a lifetime hunting license is $300 for residents and $1,000 for non-residents.

Raccoon Hunting Seasons in Kentucky

In Kentucky, the raccoon hunting season generally falls between October 1 and February 28. However, there are some areas of the state where the season may be different. For instance, in the western part of the state, the hunting season usually starts a bit earlier, on September 10.

The best time to hunt raccoons is typically early in the morning or late in the evening, when they are most active. However, they can be hunted during daylight hours as well.

When hunting raccoons, it is important to remember that they are a protected species in Kentucky and that there are limits on how many can be killed each year. The limit is 10 raccoons per hunter per season in most parts of the state. In some areas, such as national forests, the limit is 5 raccoons per hunter per season.

Can you hunt Raccoons at night in Kentucky?

Yes, you can hunt raccoon at night in Kentucky. There are no state laws prohibiting night hunting of raccoon. However, please check with your local county ordinances as some counties do have ordinances against night hunting. A good rule of thumb is to always get permission from the landowner before hunting on their property, regardless of the time of day.

Bag limits for hunting Raccoons in Kentucky

The daily bag limit for raccoons is 10 in Kentucky. The possession limit is 20. There is no season limit. Raccoons may be hunted with dogs, but only from October 1-March 31. From April 1-September 30, raccoons may only be pursued with dogs if they are doing damage to property or pose a threat to public safety.

A hunting license is required to hunt raccoons in Kentucky and can be obtained online or from any agent of the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources. A trapping license is also required if traps are used to take raccoons.

Legal ways to hunt Raccoons in Kentucky

There are a number of ways to hunt raccoons legally in Kentucky. The first is to get a hunting license from the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources. This will allow you to purchase a permit to hunt raccoons during the open season. You can also trap raccoons with a live trap, which must be approved by the department. Trapping is only allowed on private property with the landowner’s permission. Another legal way to hunt raccoons is with dogs. Dogs must be trained and registered with the department before they can be used for hunting. Finally, you can shoot raccoons with a .22 caliber or smaller rifle on private property with the landowner’s permission.

Can you use dogs to hunt Raccoons in Kentucky?

Yes, dogs can be used to hunt raccoons in Kentucky. Raccoons are nocturnal animals, so the best time to hunt them is at night. Dogs can help flush them out of hiding places and tree cavities. Be sure to keep your dogs under control, as raccoons can be aggressive when cornered. Use a 22 caliber rifle or shotgun loaded with #6 shot for best results.

Can you hunt Raccoons from a vehicle in Kentucky?

It is legal to hunt raccoons from a vehicle in Kentucky if the vehicle is being used only as a means of transportation and not as a stationary hunting platform. The use of artificial lights to spot and shoot raccoons is also allowed, as long as the lights are attached to the vehicle in a manner that does not allow them to be used while the vehicle is in motion.

Final Thoughts

In Kentucky, raccoon hunting is a popular pastime. There are many different ways to hunt raccoons, but the most common method is still with dogs. Raccoon hunting with dogs can be a great way to spend time with your family and friends, while also getting some exercise.

If you’re thinking about going raccoon hunting in Kentucky, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First of all, make sure you have a good pair of binoculars. You’ll need them to spot the raccoons in the trees. Secondly, bring along plenty of water for both you and your dog. It can get hot out in the woods, and you don’t want either of you to get dehydrated. Finally, be patient. Raccooning is not a fast-paced sport, so take your time and enjoy the experience.