Hunting Seasons & Licensing · HI
Hawaii Hunting Seasons & Licensing
2025–2026 SeasonHawaii offers unique hunting unlike anywhere else in the United States. Game species include feral pigs, feral goats, mouflon sheep, axis deer (Molokai and Lanai), blackbuck antelope, and various game birds including chukar, ring-necked pheasant, and several species of francolin. All game animals in Hawaii are non-native. Hunting occurs primarily on state Forest Reserves and designated hunting areas across the major islands. Public hunting access requires a valid state hunting license and often area-specific permits.
Dates shown are for the 2025–2026 season based on the most recent published regulations. Always verify current dates with the Hawaii Division of Forestry and Wildlife before hunting.
Season Dates by Game Type
Big Game
| Species | Season | Dates | Bag Limit | Methods |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Feral Pig | General | Year-round in most areas | Varies by area — often no limit | Rifle, bow, knife, dogs |
| Feral Goat | General | Year-round in most areas | Varies by area | Rifle, bow |
| Mouflon Sheep | General | Varies by island and area | Varies by area | Rifle, bow |
| Axis Deer | General | Varies by island | Varies | Rifle, bow |
Feral Pig (General): Dogs and knife hunting is a longstanding Hawaiian tradition. Area-specific rules apply.
Mouflon Sheep (General): Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa on Big Island
Axis Deer (General): Molokai and Lanai. Limited public access.
Turkey
| Species | Season | Dates | Bag Limit | Methods |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wild Turkey | General | Nov through Jan (varies by island) | 1 daily | Shotgun, bow |
Wild Turkey (General): Big Island, Maui, and Molokai
Upland Game Birds
| Species | Season | Dates | Bag Limit | Methods |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ring-necked Pheasant | General | Nov through Jan (varies by island) | 2 daily | Shotgun |
| Chukar | General | Nov through Jan (varies by island) | 6 daily | Shotgun |
| Francolin (multiple species) | General | Nov through Jan (varies by island) | Varies by species | Shotgun |
| Mourning Dove | General | Nov through Jan (varies by island) | 12 daily | Shotgun |
Chukar (General): Big Island and Maui primarily
Small Game
| Species | Season | Dates | Bag Limit | Methods |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Feral Rabbit | General | Year-round in most areas | No limit | Rifle, shotgun, handgun |
Licensing
| License Type | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Resident Hunting License | $20 | — |
| Non-Resident Hunting License | $105 | — |
| Game Bird Stamp | $10 | Required for game bird hunting |
| Youth (under 15) | Free with hunter education | — |
Tags, Draws & Lotteries
Hawaii does not use a traditional draw system for most hunting. Access to specific hunting areas requires checking in through the online check-in system or area-specific permits. Some areas operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Weekend hunting on popular areas may require advance sign-up. There is no preference point system.
Harvest Reporting
Hawaii requires hunters to check out of hunting areas and report harvest through the DOFAW system. Specific reporting requirements vary by area. Hunters must carry their license and any area-specific permits while hunting.
Hawaii Wildlife Resources
- Hawaii Division of Forestry and Wildlife — Hunting Home →
- Current Hunting Regulations →
- Hunter Education →
- Violation Hotline: DOCARE: (808) 643-3567
- 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 Hawaii Division of Forestry and Wildlife 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.