Rhode Island hunters have an excellent 2023-2024 deer season. The archery season in Zone 1 runs from September to January and in Zone 2 from October to January, extending hunting season. Muzzleloader season in Zones 1 and 2 in November adds a new hunting challenge. Hunters have more options with shotgun season in December in Zone 1 and early December in Zone 2. Hunters may anticipate a season full of diversity, difficulties, and unforgettable experiences in Rhode Island’s beautiful landscapes during December and January antlerless seasons.
Here is a comprehensive guide to the 2023-2024 deer hunting seasons for RI, including regulations, limits, and license/permit information for Rhode Island.
Rhode Island Deer Hunting Season Dates
Several deer seasons allow hunting with different methods in Rhode Island:
Archery Deer Season
- Zone 1: September 15, 2023 – January 31, 2024
- Zone 2: October 1, 2023 – January 31, 2024
- Zone 3: November 1, 2023 – January 31, 2024
- Zone 4: Dates set locally on Block Island
Muzzleloader Deer Season
- November 4-26, 2023 (Zones 1 & 2)
- December 26, 2023 – January 2, 2024 (Zones 1 & 2, antlerless only on private lands)
Shotgun Deer Season
- December 2-17, 2023 (Zone 1)
- December 2-10, 2023 (Zone 2)
- December 26, 2023 – January 2, 2024 (Zones 1 & 2, antlerless only on private lands)
Youth Hunting Days
- September weekends before regular seasons
Rhode Island Deer Hunting Regulations
Hunters must follow these regulations when deer hunting in Rhode Island:
- Purchase required licenses, permits, and stamps. Carry paper copies while hunting.
- Take hunter education safety course if required.
- Hunt only with legal methods for each season – bow, crossbow, muzzleloader, shotgun.
- Use legal ammunition – shotgun slugs, muzzleloader bullets, broadheads.
- Wear required hunter orange during shotgun and muzzleloader seasons.
- Report all deer harvested within 24 hours.
- Written landowner permission required for all private land.
- No hunting from motor vehicles, boats, or across roads.
- No driving deer with parties over 5 people.
- No electronic calls or unapproved deer attractants.
- Follow all RI DEM deer hunting regulations.
Rhode Island Deer Bag Limits
- Zone 1: 3 antlerless deer
- Zone 2: 2 antlerless deer
- Zone 3: 2 antlerless deer
- Zone 4: Unlimited antlerless deer
- 2 antlered deer statewide
Rhode Island Deer Permits and Licenses
To hunt deer in Rhode Island, you need:
Hunting License
- Resident: $21.00
- Non-resident: $55.00
Deer Permits
- Resident: $13.00
- Non-resident: $26.50
Other Permits
- RI game bird permit
- Federal duck stamp
- State waterfowl stamp
Tips for Hunting Deer in Rhode Island
Follow these tips for success during your Rhode Island deer hunt:
- Scout areas ahead of season to identify signs and patterns.
- Focus efforts near agricultural fields and oak trees where deer congregate.
- Be proficient with your weapon and practice ahead of time.
- Use scent control measures. Approach deer carefully from downwind.
- Sit still and remain quiet and alert from dawn till dusk.
- Be sure of your target and what lies beyond it before taking a shot.
- Follow blood trails carefully when tracking wounded deer.
- Field dress, cool, and butcher deer properly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some FAQs related to “Rhode Island Deer Season 2023-2024”:
What are the different deer hunting seasons in Rhode Island for 2023-2024?
Rhode Island hunters have several deer hunting options in 2023–2024. Zone 1 archery season is from September 15, 2023, to January 31, 2024, and Zone 2 from October 1, 2023, to January 31, 2024. Muzzleloader season is November 4–26, 2023, in Zones 1 and 2. Shotgun season is December 2-17, 2023, in Zone 1 and 2-10, 2023, in Zone 2. In December and January, antlerless seasons are held. These seasons provide a variety of hunting opportunities and difficulties in Rhode Island, enriching the hunting environment.
What are the bag limits for deer in RI during the 2023-2024 season?
Rhode Island’s 2023-2024 deer hunting season bag limitations vary by zone. Antlered deer are limited to 2 statewide. Hunters may shoot 3 antlerless deer in Zone 1 and 2 in Zone 2. Hunters may take 2 antlerless deer in Zone 3 and unlimited in Zone 4. These bag restrictions reflect each zone’s demands and conservation initiatives, giving Rhode Island deer hunters a balanced and controlled approach.
What are the hunter orange requirements for deer hunting in RI?
Hunter orange is required during muzzleloader and shotgun deer seasons in RI. Consult the regulations for exact requirements based on season and hunting method.
Can I use dogs to track wounded deer in Rhode Island?
Yes, you may use one leashed dog to track wounded deer in RI under certain restrictions – see the regulations for details.
When do I need to report my harvested deer in Rhode Island?
All deer must be reported within 24 hours of harvest, either online, by phone, or to an environmental police officer.
Where are some good public lands to deer hunt in RI?
Some top public lands for deer hunting are Arcadia Management Area, Big River Management Area, Durfee Hill Management Area, and George Washington Management Area.
Season & Rules source: Rhode Island DEM
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