The Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is reducing antlerless deer bag limits in seven southern Indiana counties this hunting season due to the impact of epizootic hemorrhagic disease (EHD) on local deer populations.
In Martin County, hunters will now be allowed to harvest two antlerless deer, down from three. Bartholomew and Switzerland counties have the same reduction. In Jennings County, the limit drops from four to two, while Jackson, Scott, and Jefferson counties will see a decrease from four to three antlerless deer. The statewide antlerless bag limit remains six, and Deer Reduction Zones will not be affected.
EHD is a viral disease that affects white-tailed deer and is spread by biting midges, sometimes called “no-see-ums.” It is most common in late summer and early fall, especially following a wet spring and hot, dry summer. While the disease can be fatal, some deer recover and develop immunity. Symptoms include lethargy, disorientation, excessive salivation, and fever, often causing deer to seek water. Hunters are encouraged to report any sick or dead deer found in or near water at on.IN.gov/sickwildlife.
The DNR will assess the effects of EHD after the hunting season and may adjust bag limits further for 2026–2027. Hunters are also encouraged to complete the Deer After Hunt Survey to report hoof conditions, including any signs of sloughing or damage, which can indicate recovery from EHD.
For more information, visit on.IN.gov/EHD-quotas or dnr.IN.gov.
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