Deer Hunting Limits Reduced in Several Indiana Counties

The Indiana Department of Natural Resources has announced new deer hunting limits for the 2025 - 2026 season following a significant outbreak of epizootic hemorrhagic disease, or EHD, in Southern Indiana.

EHD is a common viral disease in deer, and it is transmitted by biting midges. Outbreaks of EHD happen annually. However, in some years, like 2025, Indiana DNR says they see wider, more severe impacts.

Indiana Lowers Deer Bag Limits After EHD Outbreak

In response, DNR has lowered the County Antlerless Bag Limits in the hardest-hit areas to help the deer population recover. The updated limits impact even Indiana counties

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Counties Impacted by New Hunting Limits

• Bartholomew County: 2 antlerless deer (reduced from 3)
• Jackson County: 3 antlerless deer (reduced from 4)
• Jefferson County: 3 antlerless deer (reduced from 4)
• Jennings County: 2 antlerless deer (reduced from 4)
• Martin County: 2 antlerless deer (reduced from 3)
• Scott County: 3 antlerless deer (reduced from 4)
• Switzerland County: 2 antlerless deer (reduced from 3)

Statewide Regulations and Next Steps for Hunters

Statewide, the antlerless bag limit remains at 6. Additionally, DNR says these county-level changes do not affect Deer Reduction Zones.

READ MORE: Help Hungry Hoosiers By Donating Deer

DNR Urges Public to Report Sick or Dead Deer

DNR biologists plan to continue monitoring the outbreak through the winter months and say they will reassess bag limits for the 2026 - 2027 season. Hunters and residents are encouraged to help by reporting sick or dead deer through the Sick & Dead Wildlife online tool.

To learn more about EHD, as well as full details on bag limit changes, visit Indiana DNR Online.

In a public post to Facebook, DNR thanks the public for submitting reports that helped map the outbreak and guide management decisions.