Hunting Seasons & Licensing · CT
Connecticut Hunting Seasons & Licensing
2025–2026 SeasonConnecticut offers white-tailed deer, wild turkey, small game, and waterfowl hunting on a relatively compact landscape. The state manages an overabundant deer population and actively encourages harvest through liberal bag limits and extended seasons. Public hunting is available on over 100 state forests, wildlife management areas, and other public lands totaling approximately 150,000 acres. Despite its small size, Connecticut provides productive hunting close to major population centers.
Dates shown are for the 2025–2026 season based on the most recent published regulations. Always verify current dates with the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection before hunting.
Season Dates by Game Type
Big Game
| Species | Season | Dates | Bag Limit | Methods |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| White-tailed Deer | Archery | Sep 15 – Dec 31, 2025 | Liberal — multiple tags available | Bow and arrow, crossbow |
| White-tailed Deer | Firearms | Nov 19 – Dec 10, 2025 | Multiple deer — check zone-specific limits | Shotgun, muzzleloader, handgun |
| White-tailed Deer | Muzzleloader | Dec 11 – Dec 31, 2025 | Included in season total | Muzzleloader only |
White-tailed Deer (Firearms): Shotgun-only in most areas. No rifles for deer.
Turkey
| Species | Season | Dates | Bag Limit | Methods |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wild Turkey | Spring | May 1 – May 31, 2026 | 2 bearded turkeys | Shotgun, bow |
| Wild Turkey | Fall | Oct through Nov (select areas) | 1 turkey either sex | Shotgun, bow |
Upland Game Birds
| Species | Season | Dates | Bag Limit | Methods |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ring-necked Pheasant | General | Oct 18 – Nov 29, 2025 | 2 daily | Shotgun |
| Ruffed Grouse | General | Oct 18 – Dec 31, 2025 | 2 daily | Shotgun |
Ring-necked Pheasant (General): Stocked birds on state lands
Waterfowl
| Species | Season | Dates | Bag Limit | Methods |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ducks | General | Varies by zone — Oct through Jan | 6 daily (species-specific limits) | Shotgun (non-toxic shot required) |
Ducks (General): Federal duck stamp + HIP required. Atlantic Flyway.
Small Game
| Species | Season | Dates | Bag Limit | Methods |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cottontail Rabbit | General | Oct 18 – Feb 28, 2026 | 3 daily | Rifle, shotgun, handgun |
| Gray Squirrel | General | Sep 1 – Dec 31, 2025 | 5 daily | Rifle, shotgun, handgun |
Licensing
| License Type | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Resident Hunting License | $19 | — |
| Non-Resident Hunting License | $91 | — |
| Resident Deer Permit (firearms) | $19 | — |
| Non-Resident Deer Permit | $91 | — |
| Resident Turkey Permit | $10 | — |
| Youth (under 15) | Free with hunter education | — |
| Federal Duck Stamp | $25 | Required for waterfowl |
Tags, Draws & Lotteries
Most Connecticut hunting licenses and permits are available over the counter. There is no drawing system for deer or turkey. Antlerless deer permits may be available in select zones. The state actively encourages deer harvest to manage an overabundant population.
Harvest Reporting
Connecticut requires mandatory harvest reporting for all deer and turkey through the CT DEEP online system or by phone. Reporting must be completed within 24 hours of harvest.
Connecticut Wildlife Resources
- Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection — Hunting Home →
- Current Hunting Regulations →
- Hunter Education →
- Violation Hotline: TIP Line: 1-800-842-4357
- USFWS Waterfowl Frameworks →
Disclaimer: This page is for informational purposes only. Season dates, bag limits, license fees, and regulations shown here are based on the most recently published data from the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection and may not reflect last-minute changes, emergency closures, or special regulations. Always verify current regulations directly with your state wildlife agency before hunting. FirearmSelect does not provide legal advice and is not responsible for actions taken based on this information.