TOLEDO, Ohio — We're about halfway through deer gun hunting week in Ohio and hunters across the state have already tagged thousands of deer.
More than 26 thousand were checked Monday, the first day of the season, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. It's the most harvest Ohio has had since 2012. While it continues to rise the ODNR wants to remind the public to hunt safely.
State Wildlife Officer Michael Ohlrich advised hunters to follow rules and use caution when hunting.
"Being aware of your target knowing what you are shooting at, knowing what's behind that target what's beyond it, is important," said Ohlrich. "Hunter orange clothing is required to be worn. That offers visibility so that as a hunter you are being seen, and others are seeing you. That's all important for safe hunting this week."
Ohlrich said for safe hunting this week Hunters should:
- Have a hunting license and a deer permit
- Tag and game check every deer caught, meaning they call and report their deer to Ohio's division of wildlife
- Know their bag limit. In Lucas County you can check up to four deer
The ODNR officer said it's an exciting time to hunt and if everyone follows the regulations it's a fairly safe sport.
"Deer gun season is something I think a lot of people look forward to every year," said Ohlrich. "Not only is it good outdoor recreation, it gives you time with family it gives you time with friends. So, there's a lot of benefits to doing it."
Deer gun hunting season ends Sunday Dec. 8. There is an additional gun hunting weekend on Dec. 21 and 22.