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State Guide

Connecticut Hunting Guide 2026

Complete Connecticut hunting guide for 2026: seasons, license costs, draw odds, GMU boundaries, bag limits, and regulations. Compare every game species at a glance.

Wildlife Agency

Connecticut DEEP Wildlife Division

Official Site

Hunter safety course required for first-time buyers

Connecticut Hunting Seasons

Whitetail Deer

Res: $19 Non-res: $91
Season Type Opens Closes
Archery Sep 15 Dec 31
Shotgun Nov 15 Dec 9
Muzzleloader Dec 11 Dec 22

Bag limits: daily: 1, season: 2 antlered, additional antlerless with bonus tags

No centerfire rifle hunting. Shotgun slugs and muzzleloaders only. High deer density in suburban areas. Bonus antlerless permits available.

Turkey

Res: $19 Non-res: $91
Season Type Opens Closes
Shotgun May 1 May 31
Archery Oct 1 Oct 31

Bag limits: daily: 1, season: 2 (1 spring, 1 fall)

Spring bearded turkey. Fall archery season available. Strong turkey populations statewide. Youth hunt weekend in April.

Duck/Waterfowl

Res: $19 Non-res: $91
Season Type Opens Closes
Shotgun Oct 7 Jan 6

Bag limits: daily: 6, season: No season limit

Federal and Connecticut waterfowl stamps required. Atlantic Flyway. Long Island Sound and coastal marshes are key areas.

Planning Tools

Connecticut Hunting FAQ

Do I need a hunting license in Connecticut?
Yes. All hunters in Connecticut must hold a valid hunting license from the Connecticut DEEP Wildlife Division. Non-residents typically pay higher fees. A hunter safety course is required for first-time license buyers.
What is the hunting license cost in Connecticut?
Connecticut license costs vary by species. Whitetail Deer: resident $19, non-resident $91. Turkey: resident $19, non-resident $91.
When is deer season in Connecticut?
Connecticut deer seasons: Archery: Sep 15 - Dec 31, Shotgun: Nov 15 - Dec 9, Muzzleloader: Dec 11 - Dec 22.
Does Connecticut require a hunter safety course?
Yes, Connecticut requires hunter education certification for all first-time hunters. The course covers firearm safety, hunting laws, wildlife conservation, and ethical hunting practices.
Who manages hunting regulations in Connecticut?
The Connecticut DEEP Wildlife Division manages all hunting licenses, regulations, and wildlife management in Connecticut. Their website (https://portal.ct.gov/DEEP/Wildlife/Hunting) has current season dates, license purchasing, and regulation booklets.