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State Guide

Delaware Hunting Guide 2026

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

Wildlife Agency

Delaware Division of Fish & Wildlife

Official Site

Hunter safety course required for first-time buyers

Delaware Hunting Seasons

Whitetail Deer

Res: $22 Non-res: $100
Season Type Opens Closes
Archery Sep 1 Jan 31
Shotgun Nov 17 Dec 2
Muzzleloader Oct 20 Oct 28

Bag limits: daily: 2, season: 10+ with bonus tags

Extremely generous bag limits to manage high deer density. No centerfire rifles. Bonus antlerless tags readily available and encouraged.

Turkey

Res: $22 Non-res: $100
Season Type Opens Closes
Shotgun Apr 20 May 25
Archery Apr 20 May 25

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

Spring bearded turkey season. Turkey populations rebounding well. Southern Delaware has better populations.

Duck/Waterfowl

Res: $22 Non-res: $100
Season Type Opens Closes
Shotgun Oct 14 Jan 27

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

Federal duck stamp and Delaware waterfowl stamp required. Delaware Bay marshes are prime waterfowl habitat. Atlantic Flyway.

Planning Tools

Delaware Hunting FAQ

Do I need a hunting license in Delaware?
Yes. All hunters in Delaware must hold a valid hunting license from the Delaware Division of Fish & Wildlife. Non-residents typically pay higher fees. A hunter safety course is required for first-time license buyers.
What is the hunting license cost in Delaware?
Delaware license costs vary by species. Whitetail Deer: resident $22, non-resident $100. Turkey: resident $22, non-resident $100.
When is deer season in Delaware?
Delaware deer seasons: Archery: Sep 1 - Jan 31, Shotgun: Nov 17 - Dec 2, Muzzleloader: Oct 20 - Oct 28.
Does Delaware require a hunter safety course?
Yes, Delaware 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 Delaware?
The Delaware Division of Fish & Wildlife manages all hunting licenses, regulations, and wildlife management in Delaware. Their website (https://dnrec.delaware.gov/fish-wildlife/) has current season dates, license purchasing, and regulation booklets.