New Hampshire Deer Season 2025-2026: Latest Hunting Dates & Regulations
Planning your Granite State wilderness pursuits? This comprehensive breakdown covers everything you need to know about New Hampshire’s white-tailed deer opportunities, regulations, and seasons for the upcoming cycle.
New Hampshire’s diverse landscapes—from the White Mountains to the southern woodlands—offer fantastic opportunities for pursuing white-tailed deer. With its mix of archery, muzzleloader, and firearm seasons, understanding the specific dates and regulations is key to planning your outdoor adventure. This guide covers all you need for the 2025-2026 cycle, from season dates to license information and essential rules. Whether you’re a resident or visiting from out of state, let’s explore what makes New Hampshire a special destination for deer enthusiasts! 🍂
🗓️ At a Glance: New Hampshire’s White-Tailed Deer Seasons
Table: Quick Overview of Key Seasons
| Season Type | 2025-2026 Dates | Legal Game | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Archery | Sept 15 – Dec 15, 2025 | Either sex | Ends Dec 8 in WMU A |
| Youth Weekend | Oct 25 – 26, 2025 | Either sex | Statewide |
| Muzzleloader | Nov 1 – Nov 11, 2025 | Varies by WMU | Antlered only in some units |
| Firearm | Nov 12 – Dec 7, 2025 | Varies by WMU | Ends Nov 30 in WMU A |
📅 Detailed Season Breakdown
🏹 Archery Seasons
The archery period offers the longest window to pursue whitetails in New Hampshire’s woods:
- Dates: September 15 to December 15, 2025
- WMU A Note: Season closes one week early on December 8
- New for 2025: Crossbows are now permitted during the archery season in WMUs D2W, G1, G2, H1, H2, I1, I2, J1, J2, K, L, and M for anyone holding an archery license
- Equipment: Traditional bows must have minimum 40-pound draw weight; crossbows now permitted in specified WMUs
This extended timeframe allows enthusiasts to enjoy the changing foliage of September, the rut in November, and even some late-season opportunities in December.
🔫 Firearms Seasons
The firearm season is the most popular time to be in the field:
- Dates: November 12 to December 7, 2025
- WMU A Note: Season closes one week early on November 30
- Registration Note: Online registration will be unavailable for the first three days of the firearm season (Nov 12-14). Hunters must register deer in-person at a registration station during this time
- WMU-specific rules: Either-sex hunting dates vary significantly by Wildlife Management Unit
⚙️ Muzzleloader Seasons
For those who enjoy traditional hunting methods:
- Dates: November 1 to November 11, 2025
- Registration Note: Online registration will be unavailable for the first two days of the muzzleloader season (Nov 1-2). Hunters must register deer in-person at a registration station during this time
- WMU-specific rules: Either-sex hunting dates vary by Wildlife Management Unit, with some units allowing any deer harvest only on specific days
👧 Youth Seasons
New Hampshire offers special opportunities for young hunters:
- Dates: October 25-26, 2025
- Eligibility: Youth from any state may participate with a properly licensed adult
- Opportunity: Either-sex harvest is permitted statewide during this weekend
🦌 Other Deer-Related Game
While New Hampshire’s primary focus is on its white-tailed deer population, the state offers limited opportunities for other species:
- Moose: Limited draw-only opportunities with season running October 18-26, 2025
- Elk: Not currently found in New Hampshire
- Non-Native Species: New Hampshire does not have established populations of exotic deer species like axis, fallow, or sika deer
Moose hunting is particularly limited, with tags available only through a competitive drawing process .
⏳ Late Season Snapshot
Table: Late Season Opportunities (2025)
| Season | Dates | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Archery | Through Dec 15 | WMUs B-M only |
| Firearm | Through Dec 7 | WMUs B-M only |
📜 Regulations to Know
Following New Hampshire’s rules ensures both your safety and the sustainability of the herds:
- Tagging: You must immediately validate your tag upon harvesting an animal
- Hunter Education: Required for all hunters unless using an apprentice license
- Blaze Orange: Required during firearm seasons for safety
- CWD Precautions: Hunters are asked not to use natural urine-based deer lures to prevent potential spread of Chronic Wasting Disease
- New Air Rifle Regulations: Air rifles may now be used for harvesting deer if they are .35 caliber or larger and produce at least 400 foot-pounds of energy at the muzzle
🎟️ License & Tag Fees
Understanding the cost structure helps budget for your adventure:
- Resident Hunting License: Required for all resident hunters
- Archery License: Required for archery season participation
- Nonresident Licenses: Available at higher fees than resident licenses
- Special Permits: Required for certain either-sex opportunities in specific WMUs
For the most accurate and current pricing, always check the official New Hampshire Fish and Game Department website.
✅ License Requirements
- Residency: A resident is someone who has established New Hampshire residency
- Hunter Education: Required for all hunters unless using an apprentice license
- Apprentice Licenses: Available for people age 16 and older who want to try hunting but haven’t taken Hunter Education
- Age Restrictions: Youth under 16 have specific license requirements and opportunities
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can nonresidents hunt deer in New Hampshire?
Yes, nonresidents can purchase licenses and participate in all seasons, though they must pay higher fees than residents .
Are there antler restrictions in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire does not have statewide antler restrictions, but there are specific regulations regarding either-sex harvesting that vary by Wildlife Management Unit and season .
What is the bag limit for deer in New Hampshire?
The bag limit varies depending on the season and Wildlife Management Unit. Some units allow multiple deer through special permits .
Can I use a crossbow during archery season?
Yes, crossbows are now permitted during the archery season in WMUs D2W, G1, G2, H1, H2, I1, I2, J1, J2, K, L, and M for anyone holding an archery license .
When is the best time to hunt deer in New Hampshire?
The firearm season (Nov 12-Dec 7) is most popular, but archery season offers the longest window (Sept 15-Dec 15). The muzzleloader season (Nov 1-11) provides a traditional hunting experience between the two .
🎯 Conclusion
New Hampshire’s 2025 deer seasons offer diverse opportunities for pursuing white-tailed deer across the state’s beautiful landscapes. From the extended archery period starting in September through the firearm season in November and December, there’s something for every preference and skill level. Remember to check the specific regulations for your Wildlife Management Unit, obtain the proper licenses, and most importantly—practice safe and ethical hunting practices. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Granite State veteran, the upcoming seasons promise adventure and the chance to create lasting memories in New Hampshire’s great outdoors.
Disclaimer: This guide is intended for informational purposes only and is based on proposed regulations for the 2025-2026 seasons. Hunting regulations are subject to change. Always confirm the most current rules, zones, and license requirements directly on the official 🔗 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department website before heading into the field.
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