Some state hunting and fishing rules changing for 2026-27

Oklahoma hunters and anglers will see multiple rule changes for the 2026-27 season under regulations released by the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation. On the hunting side, thermal and night-vision devices are prohibited on wildlife management areas, and drone restrictions apply on certain private and department-owned lands. A new license is required for waterfowl and sandhill crane outfitters and guides, while the black bear quota has been eliminated. Nonresident deer license purchases require a 48-hour waiting period during the open season. Elk dates and zone quotas have changed, antlerless deer zone bag limits and dates were updated, and the definition of “youth” for special youth and veteran days shifts from age 15 to 17. Fishing changes include new access-area additions on the upper Illinois River and updated crappie limits, such as a daily cap of 20 at Eufaula and Atoka.