Latest Rock Hill's source for local news
64°F Cloudy · Rock Hill
ROCK HILL, SC · PIEDMONT EDITION · THURSDAY, APRIL 30, 2026
HERE City Network
HERERockHill

Rock Hill
Hunting
Report 2026

Live conditions, season status, solunar ratings, WMA profiles, and community hunting coverage for York County and Game Zone 2.

Hog: Open Year-Round Spring Turkey: Open Dove: Closed Deer: Closed Game Zone 2
6 WMAs Profiled
Live Hunt Conditions
Solunar Rating
2026 Season Guide
First Look • Hunt Conditions
🌔
Waxing Gibbous
Illumination: 93%
6:45 am
7:50 pm
62°F
7 mph
Fair — bright nights keep deer nocturnal. Hunt midday movement.
79
GOOD
Good conditions. Plan your approach and be patient.

Spartanburg Hunting Season Status

Whitetail Deer
CLOSED
Season DatesArchery: Sept 15 – Oct 10 | Primitive: Oct 1 – 10 | Gun: Oct 11 – Jan 1
Bag Limit:2 antlered per day, 5 antlered per season (residents). Game Zone 2 private land.
Next season opens September 15 on private lands.
SC hunting license + big game permit required. WMA license for public lands.
Feral Hog
OPEN YEAR-ROUND
Season DatesNo closed season on private land. On WMAs: any open hunting season.
Bag Limit:No bag limit on private land. No closed season. Any sex.
Invasive species — year-round control encouraged by on private lands.
SC hunting license required. Night hunting allowed with landowner permission.
Spring Turkey
OPEN
Season DatesSpring gobbler: April 3 – May 3 (private lands, Game Zone 2)
Bag Limit:2 per season, 1 per day. Gobblers only during spring season.
Spring gobbler season is OPEN. Dawn setup critical — be in place before first light.
SC hunting license + turkey license. Must report harvest via Game Check within 24 hours.
Mourning Dove
CLOSED
Season DatesSegment 1: Sept 1 – Oct 4, 2026 | Segment 2: Oct 15 – Nov 14 | Segment 3: Dec 12 – Jan 15
Bag Limit:15 doves per day. Possession limit: 30 doves.
Next dove opener: September 1, 2026. Scout planted fields and sunflower plots now.
SC hunting license required. Federal Migratory Bird stamp required age 16+. Wanton waste prohibited.
Season dates shown are for Game Zone 2 private lands. WMA dates, license requirements, and antlerless regulations may differ. Always verify current regulations with before hunting.
Report a Season Update

Spartanburg Hunting Weather Now

62F
Partly Cloudy
Feels like 59°F
Wind 7 mph SW
Humidity 58%
Pressure 1018 hPa
Moon Waxing Gibbous
Location Rock Hill, SC
Field Scout Tips
  • Calm winds are ideal for scent control. Play the wind carefully — enter and exit your stand downwind.

Spartanburg Hunt Conditions Today

Temperature
62°F
Optimal
Wind Speed
7 mph
Ideal — Calm
Barometric
1018 hPa
High — Active
Moon Phase
🌔
Fair
GOOD
Good conditions. Plan your approach and be patient.

Spartanburg Hunt Forecast — 5 Days

MON
Sunny
63° / 44°
7 mph wind • 50% humidity
PRIME
TUE
Partly Cloudy
67° / 48°
6 mph wind • 62% humidity
GOOD
WED
Light Rain
58° / 41°
12 mph wind • 45% humidity
FAIR
THU
Clear & Cool
55° / 39°
8 mph wind • 52% humidity
PRIME
FRI
Mostly Cloudy
71° / 52°
5 mph wind • 60% humidity
GOOD

Spartanburg SC Wildlife Management Areas

Six public hunting areas within reach of Rock Hill — from in-county dove fields to mountain bear country an hour west.
Cliff Pitts WMA
~1,000 acres STATE WMA
York County • In County
Whitetail Deer Turkey Small Game Dove

Cliff Pitts WMA is the closest public hunting ground to Rock Hill proper, managed by in Game Zone 2. The property features a mix of agricultural fields, pine stands, and hardwood bottoms. Known for dove field management and accessible deer hunting within York County.

Public access. Check current year hunting guide for designated parking areas and field maps. WMA license required in addition to hunting license.

Field Tip
Dove fields here are actively managed. Scout before season opener — fields rotate annually. Best deer hunting near the hardwood creek drainages.
Jocassee Gorges WMA
38,000 acres STATE WMA
Pickens / Oconee Counties • ~1 hour west
Whitetail Deer Turkey Black Bear Feral Hog Ruffed Grouse Small Game

One of the largest WMAs in South Carolina, Jocassee Gorges encompasses rugged Blue Ridge terrain in Pickens and Oconee Counties. This wilderness tract holds one of SC's best black bear populations. Deer and turkey hunting can be excellent for those willing to hike deep into the mountains. Ruffed grouse are a rare bonus.

Multiple trailhead access points off US-11 and SC-130. Remote terrain requires topographic maps and GPS. WMA license required. No motorized vehicles beyond designated roads.

Field Tip
For bear, locate white oak flats and persimmon trees in September. For deer, hunt ridge saddles and creek confluences. Bring waterproof boots — expect steep terrain and creek crossings.
Broad River WMA
18,422 acres STATE WMA
Newberry / Fairfield Counties • ~1 hour south
Whitetail Deer Turkey Feral Hog Waterfowl Small Game Dove

Broad River WMA covers the floodplain and upland terrain along the Broad River corridor. This large tract is known for its feral hog population — one of the most accessible year-round hunting opportunities in the region. Deer and turkey hunting is productive in the hardwood bottoms and planted pines.

Multiple access points along SC-34 and county roads. Portions subject to seasonal flooding — check conditions before hunting bottomlands. WMA license required.

Field Tip
Feral hogs concentrate near river bottoms and food plots year-round. Hunt creek crossings and wallows. For deer, the hardwood drainages hold rubs and scrapes during the rut.
Tyger River Complex
Multiple tracts acres STATE WMA
Rock Hill / Laurens Counties • In County / nearby
Mourning Dove Whitetail Deer Small Game Turkey

The Tyger River Complex consists of multiple smaller tracts managed along the Tyger River drainages in Rock Hill and Laurens Counties. These properties focus heavily on dove field management, with planting and managing fields for migratory dove hunting in September.

Access varies by individual tract. Check annual WMA guide for current field status and parking locations. Fields managed under dove program — some require pre-season registration.

Field Tip
The September 1 dove opener is a community event at these fields. Arrive early to secure position. Fields typically produce best during the first two weeks of season.
Poe Creek State Forest WMA
6,200 acres STATE FOREST WMA
Pickens County • ~45 minutes west
Whitetail Deer Black Bear Turkey Gray Squirrel Rabbit

Poe Creek State Forest WMA in Pickens County offers diverse hunting on state forest land managed cooperatively with . The property features a mix of planted pines, hardwood ridges, and stream bottomlands. Black bear season applies here — check zone-specific regulations carefully.

Primary access off SC-8 in Easley area. State forest roads provide interior access during dry conditions. WMA license and state forest permit may both be required — verify with .

Field Tip
Squirrel hunting is often overlooked but productive at Poe Creek — excellent scouting opportunity in early season that reveals deer sign before gun season opens.
Mountain Hunt Unit (Game Zone 1)
Variable acres MOUNTAIN ZONE
Cherokee / Greenville Counties • Adjacent to York County
Black Bear Whitetail Deer Ruffed Grouse Turkey Wild Boar

The Mountain Hunt Unit encompasses Cherokee and northern Greenville County lands bordering Rock Hill. This is the nearest access to Game Zone 1 regulations — including earlier bear seasons and different bag limits than Zone 2. Rugged terrain with significant elevation change.

Multiple public access points along the I-85 corridor into Cherokee County. Check current year hunting guide for Game Zone 1 specific dates and areas. Zone boundaries matter here.

Field Tip
Zone 1 deer season opens earlier than Zone 2 — if you hunt this area, carry a copy of zone boundary maps. The ridge lines between Cherokee and Greenville hold excellent ruffed grouse habitat.
Did We Miss a Spot?

Know a Rock Hill-area hunting land, WMA, or public access parcel that should be on this list? Let us know.

Report a Hunting Spot

Spartanburg Hunting Reviews

Cliff Pitts WMA
Mike • Apr 11, 2026
Solid public land deer hunting within 45 minutes of Spartanburg. Not crowded midweek. Saw 6 deer in 3 hours from a creek bottom stand. Took a doe at 70 yards.
Species: Whitetail Deer
Key Gear: Climber stand and a 30-06. Could not get in without the climber.
Jocassee Gorges WMA
Shelly • Apr 7, 2026
Hiked 3 miles in with my husband. Glassed a bear on a persimmon tree at about 150 yards. Did not get a shot but it was the most incredible wildlife experience. We will be back in October.
Species: Black Bear
Key Gear: Good boots. The terrain is no joke. Waterproof everything.
Spartanburg County Dove Field
Travis • Apr 4, 2026
Opening day was packed but the birds were flying. Got 11 of my 15 in the first hour. Great community feel -- everyone was friendly and sharing the field well.
Species: Mourning Dove
Key Gear: 12 gauge with improved cylinder choke. Bring a bucket to sit on.
Broad River WMA
Dan • Apr 1, 2026
Spring gobbler season on public land. Had 3 toms gobbling at first light. Worked one in to 25 yards with a slate call. Clean harvest. The WMA is big enough that you can get away from other hunters.
Species: Turkey
Key Gear: Slate call and a Mossberg 835 with TSS loads. The slate call worked better than the box call here.
See All Reviews
Share Your Hunt
Hunted a Rock Hill-area WMA or private land? Tell us about it in 280 characters or fewer.
Here We...
Bag Them Big...
Trophy harvests, personal bests, and record-book moments from Rock Hill hunters.
Randy — Cliff Pitts WMA
Opening morning of gun season. Had him patterned for three weeks on a hardwood creek bottom. 80-yard shot from a climber stand. Biggest buck I have taken in Spartanburg County.
Whitetail Deer
Tammy — Private Land - Inman
Both birds responded to a slate call at sunrise. First one came in at 30 yards. Second followed 20 minutes later from the opposite direction. Best morning in the turkey woods ever.
Eastern Wild Turkey
Jackson — Spartanburg County Dove Field
First time ever getting a full limit on doves. Field off Goldmine Road in Pacolet. Wind was right and they were flying in waves. Used 38 of my 50 shells. My 12-year-old son got his first dove too.
Mourning Dove
Don't Drink by the Swig...
Your favorite post-hunt watering hole. Where do you go when the hunt is done?
Chris
Downtown Spartanburg. Tacos after a cold morning in the stand. They do not care if you show up in camo. Outdoor patio is perfect for telling hunting stories.
Willy Taco -- Margarita on the rocks
Dale
Straight from the deer stand to the taproom. Local craft beer, easy parking, and they have a big screen for watching hunting shows. The burger is solid too.
RJ Rockers Brewing -- Bell Ringer brown ale
Beth
Old school Spartanburg. After a morning dove hunt my whole group goes to Ikes. Cheap, fast, and they have been feeding hunters and everyone else for decades. Get the cheeseburger.
Ikes Korner Grill -- Sweet tea and a Bud Light

Spartanburg Hunting News

Local — Rock Hill and Piedmont
Coming Soon
Local
Rock Hill Hunting Coverage Coming Soon
Local WMA reports, season openers, deer and turkey harvest news, and Piedmont hunting coverage from the HERERockHill newsroom.
National — Whitetail, CWD, and Conservation
Coming Soon
National
National Hunting Coverage Coming Soon
Whitetail news, CWD updates, conservation legislation, gear reviews, and national hunting stories with a Rock Hill perspective.
More at Outdoor Sports
Fishing, camping, hiking, and all outdoor sports coverage for Rock Hill and Piedmont SC
See All Outdoor Sports Coverage
Partner
Advertise Here
Reach Rock Hill hunters — advertise on the Hunting Report
Advertise Here

Hunting Gear Guide

Gear reviews and picks for the Rock Hill hunter — boots, optics, packs, and more.
Presented by
Tuff Toe
Triple the life of your hunting boots. Made in the USA.
Become a Sponsor
Gear Reviews — Tested for Piedmont SC Hunting
Tuff Toe Boot Guard
Boot Protection

Ballistic-grade polyurethane adhesive that triples the life of any hunting boot. Originally developed with NASA-grade materials and tested by MLB pitchers for 30+ years. Waterproof, chemical-resistant, and puncture-proof. Applies in 30 minutes, cures in 24 hours. One kit covers both boots. Available in black, brown, and tan to match your leather.

Made in USA Boot Care Lifetime Guarantee
★★★★☆ 4.5 / 5
$29.99
Best for: Any hunter tired of replacing boots every season
Kenetrek Mountain Extreme 1000
Mountain Hunting Boot

Italian-made mountain hunting boot built for heavy loads over rough terrain. 1000g Thinsulate insulation handles SC piedmont cold snaps through January gun season. K-73 outsole grips wet rock and creek crossings. Reinforced toe rand and full-grain leather upper. The go-to boot for serious Jocassee Gorges and mountain zone hunters packing out heavy game.

1000g Insulated Waterproof Mountain
★★★★☆ 4.7 / 5
$450
Best for: Mountain hunters, heavy pack-outs, cold weather
Crispi Nevada GTX
All-Around Hunting Boot

Consistently rated the best overall hunting boot year after year. The ankle bone support system (ABSS) prevents rolling on uneven WMA trails. Gore-Tex waterproof lining keeps feet dry through creek crossings and morning dew. Zero break-in time out of the box. Available in uninsulated or 200g insulated for early-to-mid season versatility across Game Zone 2.

Gore-Tex ABSS Ankle Support Zero Break-In
★★★★☆ 4.8 / 5
$399 - $429
Best for: All-season, all-terrain — the one-boot solution
Sitka Equinox Turkey Vest
Turkey Hunting Vest

Purpose-built for spring gobbler season with Optifade Subalpine camouflage pattern. Multiple call pockets keep mouth calls, box calls, and slates organized and accessible. Flip-down padded seat cushion for long sits against hardwoods. Lightweight mesh construction stays cool during April mornings that warm up fast in the SC piedmont.

Optifade Camo Call Storage Padded Seat
★★★★☆ 4.6 / 5
$249
Best for: Spring turkey hunters who sit and call
Danner Sharptail Snake Boot
Snake-Proof Hunting Boot

Full snake-proof protection from sole to shin — essential for spring turkey and early-season dove hunts in York County when copperheads and timber rattlers are active. 360-degree snake guard with lightweight polyurethane footbed. The CamoHide leather and textile upper is quieter in brush than rubber alternatives. ASTM-rated snake protection.

Snake Proof ASTM Rated Lightweight
★★★★☆ 4.4 / 5
$210
Best for: Spring turkey, dove fields, and warm-weather hunts
Vortex Diamondback HD 10x42
Binoculars

Best-in-class optics at a price point that makes sense for deer and turkey hunters. HD optical system with anti-reflective coatings delivers sharp edge-to-edge clarity at dawn and dusk when game is most active. Fully waterproof and fog-proof with argon purging. Rubber armor absorbs impacts from tree stand drops. Backed by Vortex's unconditional VIP lifetime warranty.

HD Glass Lifetime Warranty Waterproof
★★★★☆ 4.7 / 5
$229
Best for: Deer hunters glassing fields and food plots
Outfitter, Guide Service, or Hunting Retailer?

Get featured in the Essential Gear section and reach active hunters across the HERE City Network — 100+ cities.

Learn About Gear Advertising

SC Hunting Season Calendar

Sept 1, 2026
Dove Season Opens — Segment 1
Private lands and managed fields. Limit 15/day.
Statewide
Sept 15, 2026
Deer Archery Season Opens
Private lands, Game Zone 2. Bow and crossbow.
Zone 2
Oct 1, 2026
Primitive Weapons Season Opens
Muzzleloader and primitive equipment only.
Zone 2
Oct 4, 2026
Dove Season 1 Closes
Segment 1 closes. Segment 2 opens Nov 15. Per .
Statewide
Oct 11, 2026
Deer Gun Season Opens
Private lands. All legal weapons. Peak rut Nov.
Zone 2
Nov 15, 2026
Dove Season Segment 2 Opens
Nov 15 – Nov 29. 15 doves per day limit. Per migratory bird seasons.
Statewide
Nov (Peak)
Peak Whitetail Rut
Estimated peak rut for SC Piedmont: Nov 1-15.
Zone 2
Nov 29, 2026
Dove Season Segment 2 Closes
Segment 3 opens Dec 22. Per migratory bird seasons.
Statewide
Dec 22, 2026
Dove Season Segment 3 Opens
Dec 22, 2026 – Jan 31, 2027. 15 doves per day limit. Per migratory bird seasons.
Statewide
Jan 1, 2027
Deer Gun Season Closes
Final day of Zone 2 deer gun season.
Zone 2
Apr 3, 2027
Spring Turkey Gobbler Season Opens
Private lands, Zone 2. Gobblers only. 2 per season.
Zone 2
May 3, 2027
Spring Turkey Season Closes
30-day spring gobbler season ends.
Zone 2
Dates reflect 2026 SC hunting regulations for Game Zone 2. Always verify with the current Hunting and Fishing Guide. Regulations are subject to change. Hogs are legal year-round on private land with a hunting license — no closed season.

Spartanburg Hunting FAQ

Common questions about hunting in the Rock Hill area, answered.
  • In York County (Game Zone 2) on private lands, deer archery season opens September 15. Primitive weapons season runs October 1-10. Gun season opens October 11 and runs through January 1. WMA seasons may have different dates — check the current South Carolina Hunting and Fishing Guide each year.
  • Public hunting near Rock Hill includes Cliff Pitts WMA (in York County — deer, turkey, small game), the Tyger River Complex (dove fields in Rock Hill and Laurens Counties), Jocassee Gorges WMA (38,000 acres about 1 hour west — deer, turkey, bear), Broad River WMA (18,000+ acres about 1 hour south — deer, turkey, hog), and Poe Creek State Forest WMA (about 45 minutes west — deer, bear). A WMA license is required on all public hunting lands in addition to your basic hunting license.
  • Yes. All hunters in South Carolina need a state hunting license. Deer and turkey require an additional big game permit. Hunting on any Wildlife Management Area (WMA) requires a WMA license. Federal migratory bird hunters age 16 and older need a federal duck stamp for waterfowl. Licenses and permits are available through at dnr.sc.gov or at authorized license agents throughout York County.
  • Yes. South Carolina allows Sunday hunting on private lands and on most WMAs. There are no statewide Sunday hunting restrictions. However, some counties or local jurisdictions may have ordinances — always verify local rules before hunting on Sundays. Sunday hunting with firearms is permitted on all WMAs.
  • In Game Zone 2 (which includes York County), the deer bag limit for SC residents is 2 antlered deer per day with a season limit of 5 antlered deer total. For antlerless deer, quota permits apply on WMAs — check the specific WMA regulations. On private lands, antlerless deer limits depend on the county. Always consult the current South Carolina Hunting and Fishing Guide for updated limits, as they can change each season.
  • Black bear are present in the mountain regions adjacent to York County — particularly in Cherokee County (Mountain Hunt Unit, Game Zone 1), Jocassee Gorges WMA (Pickens/Oconee Counties), and Poe Creek State Forest WMA (Pickens County). Bear hunting in SC requires a bear tag in addition to a big game permit. The Mountain Hunt Unit (Game Zone 1) in Cherokee County borders York County and is the closest designated bear hunting area. Bear sightings in York County itself are occasional but not common.