KY Elk Hunting

Kentucky Elk Season Dates 2026

Elk season in Kentucky runs Sep 13 – Dec 31 across 1 Zone.

6 Seasons2 Weapon Types

Rifle

ZoneTypeDatesHarvestPressurePublic
Elk ZoneBull Firearm Hunt 1Sep 27Oct 1
Elk ZoneBull Firearm Hunt 2Oct 4Oct 8
Elk ZoneCow Firearm Hunt 1Nov 29Dec 3
Elk ZoneCow Firearm Hunt 2Dec 27Dec 31

Archery

ZoneTypeDatesHarvestPressurePublic
Elk ZoneEarly Archery (Either-Sex)Sep 13Sep 26
Elk ZoneLate Archery (Either-Sex)Dec 6Dec 12

Elk in Kentucky: FAQ

When is elk season in Kentucky?

Elk season in Kentucky currently runs Sep 13 to Dec 31, across 6 season rows, split by weapon (Archery, Rifle).

Where is the best place to hunt elk in Kentucky?

The best Zones for elk in Kentucky depend on harvest success and public-land access, both shown per Zone above. Compare units before you apply for a tag or plan your hunt.

Plan your Elk hunt in Kentucky

View Zone boundaries, public land, and walk-in access areas on our interactive map.

Also see Kentucky seasons, public land, and license.

Elk seasons in Kentucky — offline