Hunting is a popular outdoor activity in New Hampshire, offering a variety of game animals such as deer, turkey, pheasant, black bear, and even moose.
With more than 200,000 acres of state land and over 750,000 acres in the White Mountain National Forest, the Granite State provides ample opportunities for hunting enthusiasts.
But when does the hunting season begin, and what are the rules you need to follow?
In this article, we aim to answer all of these questions and more.
New Hampshire Hunting Landscapes:
New Hampshire is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, and hunters are no exception. The state’s diverse landscapes range from the rugged White Mountains to rolling hills and dense forests, offering a variety of habitats for game animals like deer, turkey, and black bear.
Whether you’re stalking deer in the hardwood forests or setting up a duck blind near a secluded pond, the natural beauty of New Hampshire adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the hunting experience.
American Black Bear:
The New Hampshire landscape would not be complete without the presence of the American black bear.
These majestic creatures are an integral part of the state’s ecosystem and a popular target for hunters. However, the methods used to hunt bears, particularly the use of hounds, have been a subject of debate.
Critics argue that using dogs to chase bears not only gives hunters an unfair advantage but also stresses the animals and disrupts other wildlife.
This has led to calls for more ethical hunting practices that respect both the animal and the land.
The Impact of Hunting Methods
One particular method of bear hunting that has been scrutinized is “hounding,” where hunters use dogs to chase bears until they are treed or cornered.
This practice has been criticized for its impact on the bear population, particularly on sows and their cubs.
Studies indicate that the stress and energy expenditure from being chased can affect the bears’ overall well-being and survival.
Furthermore, if a sow is killed, her orphaned cubs have a low survival rate, facing threats from predators, starvation, and disease.
Landowner Concerns
The use of hounds in bear hunting also raises concerns among landowners in New Hampshire. The chase often crosses multiple properties, potentially leading to issues of trespassing and conflicts with pets and livestock.
This has led to an increasing number of landowners posting “No Trespassing” signs, especially during hounding season.
The issue highlights the need for a balanced approach to hunting that respects both the rights of hunters and landowners.
When Does the Hunting Season Begin?
Unfortunately, specific dates for the 2023-2024 hunting season in New Hampshire are not readily available. However, general information suggests that the hunting seasons for various game animals are as follows:
- Deer/Regular Firearms: November 8 – December 3, 2023
- Archery (Any deer): September 15 – December 8
- Muzzleloader (Antlered deer only): Specific dates not available
| Game Animal | General Season Dates | Additional Notes |
| Deer (Firearms) | November 8 – December 3, 2023 | |
| Archery (Any deer) | September 15 – December 8 | |
| Muzzleloader | Not Available | Specific dates not provided |
| Black Bear | Varies by Region | Chocolate as bait is prohibited |
| Moose | Regulated by Lottery | Being selected is rare |
| Wild Turkey | Varies by Zone | One permit for both spring and fall |
| Small Game | Varies by Animal and Season | Check NH Fish and Game for details |
For a complete summary of season dates and bag limits, it is advisable to consult the NH Hunting and Trapping Digest, published each year in August.
General Regulations
Before you head out into the wilderness, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with New Hampshire’s hunting regulations.
These rules are in place to ensure both the safety of hunters and the conservation of wildlife.
Licenses and Permits
Both residents and non-residents must obtain a hunting license before they can hunt in New Hampshire. These licenses can be purchased online, by mail, or from a licensed agent.
Also, the general hunting license and specific permits are required for hunting certain game animals like deer, moose, and turkey. Failure to obtain the necessary permits can result in fines and penalties.
Sunday Hunting
Unlike many states, New Hampshire allows hunting on Sundays.
This gives hunters an extra day to enjoy their outdoor activities but remember to follow all the same rules and regulations as any other day.
Specific Game Rules
For specific animals, following are the game rules:
Deer Hunting
Deer hunting in New Hampshire comes with its own set of rules. A deer permit is required, and hunters are allowed to harvest only one deer per permit.
Both antlered and antlerless deer can be harvested within the same season, but regulations may differ depending on the region.
Some areas may also have early closures for deer hunting, so it’s essential to check the specific dates for your region.
Black Bear Hunting
For those interested in black bear hunting, New Hampshire has specific regulations, including a prohibition on the use of chocolate as bait.
This is because chocolate can be toxic to bears if consumed in large quantities.
The season dates for black bear hunting can also vary by region, so be sure to check the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department website for the most current information.
Moose Hunting
Moose hunting is regulated through a lottery system. While the moose population in New Hampshire has been growing, being selected for a moose hunt is still considered rare.
If you’re lucky enough to be chosen, make sure you understand all the rules and regulations surrounding moose hunting, as they can be quite different from those for other game animals.
Wild Turkey
Wild turkey hunting is permitted in both the spring and fall seasons. One permit gives you access to a year’s worth of turkey hunting in New Hampshire.
However, the season dates can vary by zone, so it’s important to check the specific dates for your area.
Small Game
Small game hunting, which includes animals like pheasants and squirrels, also has its own set of rules.
Bag limits, special seasons, and specific hunting regulations can vary based on the animal and the season. Always consult the NH Hunting and Trapping Digest for the most up-to-date information.
Safety Regulations
Safety is a top priority when hunting. Always make sure to wear the appropriate safety gear, including high-visibility clothing.
Also, be aware of your surroundings and ensure you are not hunting near residential areas or private property without permission.
By understanding and following these rules, you contribute to the conservation efforts in New Hampshire and help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all hunters.
Always remember to consult the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department for the most current and comprehensive information.
Where are the Public Hunting Areas in New Hampshire?
Here’s a detailed guide to the public hunting areas in New Hampshire:
State Lands
New Hampshire boasts over 200,000 acres of state land that are open to hunting. These areas are managed by the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department and offer a variety of habitats suitable for different types of game.
From the rolling hills to dense forests, these state lands provide excellent opportunities for hunting deer, turkey, and small game.
White Mountain National Forest
In addition to state lands, New Hampshire is home to the expansive White Mountain National Forest, which covers over 750,000 acres.
This area offers a different kind of hunting experience, with rugged terrains and the possibility of encountering larger game like moose and black bear.
Accessibility
Many of these public hunting areas are easily accessible, with parking lots and trailheads that lead into the hunting zones.
However, it’s always a good idea to check the specific regulations for each area, as some may have restrictions on the types of game that can be hunted or the methods that can be used.
What Guns and Equipment Can I Use During Hunting Season?
Following are a few guns and equipment that you can use during the hunting season:
Firearms
The type of firearms you can use during hunting season in New Hampshire varies depending on the game and the specific season.
For example, during the regular firearms season for deer, rifles and shotguns are generally permitted.
However, there may be caliber and magazine capacity restrictions, so it’s essential to check the rules.
Archery
During archery season, hunters are allowed to use bows.
Crossbows may also be permitted, but it’s crucial to check the specific regulations as they can vary by game and season.
Other Equipment
Hunters may also use various types of traps and snares for small game, but these must meet specific size and identification requirements.
Optics like scopes and binoculars are generally allowed, but electronic devices that assist in hunting may be restricted.
Safety Gear
High-visibility clothing is often required to ensure the safety of all hunters in the area. Blaze orange hats, vests, and other clothing items are commonly used.
What Are the Limits for New Hampshire Counties?
These are the limits for New Hampshire counties:
Wildlife Management Units (WMUs)
In New Hampshire, hunting limits often vary by county and are based on Wildlife Management Units (WMUs).
These units are geographical areas defined for the management of wildlife and their habitats.
Deer Hunting
For example, deer hunting seasons may close early in some WMUs due to population management goals. The bag limits can also differ, allowing only a certain number of deer to be harvested per hunter per season.
Other Game
Limits for other game like turkey, moose, and small game can also vary by WMU and are often determined based on population studies and conservation needs.
Special Restrictions
Some WMUs may have special restrictions, such as “antlered deer only” or “no baiting allowed.”
Always consult the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department website or the NH Hunting and Trapping Digest for the most current and comprehensive information on hunting limits.
What Are the Penalties for Illegal Hunting in New Hampshire?
Illegal hunting is a serious offense that not only jeopardizes the safety and well-being of both humans and animals but also undermines conservation efforts.
In New Hampshire, as in many other states, there are stringent penalties for those caught engaging in illegal hunting activities. Here’s what you need to know:
Fines
One of the most immediate consequences of illegal hunting is the imposition of fines. These fines can vary depending on the severity of the offense but can be substantial.
For example, hunting without a license or hunting out of season can result in fines ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars.
The fines are designed to be a deterrent, discouraging individuals from breaking the law.
Imprisonment
In more severe cases, illegal hunting can lead to imprisonment. This is particularly true for repeat offenders or those who engage in especially egregious activities, such as poaching endangered species.
Jail terms can range from several months to multiple years, depending on the nature of the offense and the individual’s prior criminal history.
Revocation of Hunting Licenses
If you are caught hunting illegally, you risk having your hunting license revoked, either temporarily or permanently.
This is a significant penalty, especially for avid hunters, as it not only bars you from hunting in New Hampshire but can also have implications for obtaining hunting licenses in other states.
Some states participate in a Wildlife Violator Compact, where violations in one state can affect your hunting privileges in others.
Additional Consequences
Beyond fines, imprisonment, and license revocation, there can be other consequences as well.
These may include the confiscation of any game that was illegally taken and the forfeiture of hunting equipment, including firearms and traps.
In some cases, individuals may also be required to attend hunter education courses to better understand the laws and ethics of hunting.
Legal Repercussions
It’s also worth noting that illegal hunting can result in civil lawsuits.
Landowners can sue for damages if you were hunting on their property without permission, and the state can take legal action to recover the value of any game animals that were taken illegally.
Moral and Ethical Considerations
Illegal hunting not only has legal ramifications but also ethical ones. Responsible hunting is based on the principles of conservation and respect for wildlife.
Engaging in illegal activities undermines these principles and can have long-term negative impacts on animal populations and ecosystems.
FAQs
Do I need a permit for hunting in New Hampshire?
Yes, you will need a hunting license and specific permits for different game animals.
Can I hunt on Sundays?
Yes, unlike many states, New Hampshire allows Sunday hunting.
Do I need landowner permission to place game cameras?
Effective January 1, 2024, hunters will be required to have written or verbal landowner permission to place game cameras on their property.
Where can I find more information?
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, visit the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department website.