Knox County continues to be a hotspot for deer hunters, with a strong archery harvest so far this season.
Through Nov. 18, 2025, hunters reported a total of 2,289 deer, including 1,205 antlered and 1,084 antlerless deer.
The numbers reflect a healthy deer population and high hunter participation, placing Knox County among the top counties in Ohio for total harvests. Knox County ranked fourth in total deer harvested, trailing only Coshocton (3,031), Tuscarawas (2,616) and Ashtabula (2,450).
Ohio’s 2025–26 archery deer season runs from Saturday, Sept. 27, 2025, through Sunday, Feb. 1, 2026.
As in previous years, hunters are allowed to harvest only one antlered deer during the season, a rule that helps manage the state’s deer population while supporting quality hunting opportunities.
From young first-time hunters to seasoned veterans, Knox County’s 2025 archery season has showcased the area’s thriving deer population and the dedication of local hunters.
Young hunters have made headlines, including 9-year-old Aubrey Smith, who harvested her first 8-point buck.
Aubrey Smith with her first buck harvested in Knox County. (Facebook / Fin Feather Fur Outfitters)
Experienced hunters also had notable successes, such as Todd Wells, whose buck required a 35-hour recovery effort with assistance from ThermalTrail Drone Recovery.
The viewfinder captures Todd Wells’ Knox County buck as it’s located by ThermalTrail Drone Recovery,
part of a 35-hour effort to recover the deer. (Facebook / ThermalTrail Drone Recovery)
ThermalTrail Drone Recovery operator Cory Michael Frazier, holding the drone, stands with Mount
Vernon’s Todd Wells, Owner & CEO of Knox Recovery, after locating Wells’ Knox County buck.
(Facebook / ThermalTrail Drone Recovery)
Other trophy hunters also shared a range of impressive harvests on social media.
Josh McLaughlin, from Fredericktown, with a 12-point buck harvested in Knox County.
(Facebook / Runzo’s Outdoor Sports)
Trinity Webb, from Marlboro, with her second-ever deer, a nice doe harvested in Knox County.
(Facebook / Runzo’s Outdoor Sports)
Ava with a massive buck harvested in Knox County. (Facebook / The Ohio Hunt Club)
Jake poses with a massive Joker buck harvested in Knox County. (Facebook / Trophy Bucks of OHIO)
Brandon with a monster buck harvested in Knox County. (Facebook / The Ohio Hunt Club)
Ryan with a massive buck harvested in Knox County. (Facebook / The Ohio Hunt Club)
