Nebraska Hunting Seasons & Licensing: What You Need To Know (2024)

If you're a Nebraska resident, or if you plan to visit our great state to hunt during the upcoming season, it's important that you familiarize yourself with the hunting regulations and licensing requirements.

In this blog post, we will provide an overview of the licensing process and outline the hunting seasons for deer, elk, antelope, and other game species. So whether you're a first-time hunter or a seasoned pro, make sure to read on for all the information you need to enjoy a successful hunting trip in Nebraska!

Hunting In Nebraska

Nebraska is a great place to go hunting. The state has a variety of game species, including deer, elk, bighorn sheep, and pronghorn antelope. You can also find a variety of bird species, such as pheasant, quail, and grouse.

The best time to go hunting in Nebraska is in the fall when the animals are actively feeding and preparing for winter. However, you can also find success in the spring and early summer, when the animals are more active and their fur is in prime condition.

When you go hunting in Nebraska, be sure to bring the proper gear. You will need a good rifle or shotgun, as well as ammunition and a hunting license. You should also wear proper clothing, including boots, gloves, and a hat.

Nebraska is home to some of the best hunting in the country. With a variety of game species and good access to public land, it is a great place to go hunting. Be sure to bring the proper gear and clothing, and you will have a successful hunt.

Nebraska Deer Seasons

Archery	Sept. 1-Dec. 31
November Firearm	Nov. 13-21
Muzzleloader	Dec. 1-31
Antlerless Late Season	Jan. 1-16

Nebraska Antelope Seasons

Archery	Aug. 20-Dec. 31
Muzzleloader	Sept. 18-Oct. 3
Firearms	Oct. 9-24
November Late Doe/Fawn	Nov.1-Jan. 31

Nebraska Elk Seasons

Archery Bull	Sept. 1-Oct. 31
Firearm Bull	Sept. 21-Oct. 31
Early Antlerless	Aug. 1-Jan. 1
Late Antlerless	Nov. 1-Jan. 31

Nebraska Wild Turkey Seasons

Fall General Season	Sept. 15-Jan. 31
Spring Archery	Mar. 25-May 31
Spring Youth Shotgun	Apr. 17-May 31
Spring Shotgun	Apr. 17-May 31

Nebraska Bighorn Sheep Seasons

General Season

Nov. 30-Dec. 22

*Big Horn Sheep hunting permits are available by lottery only. Only one permit is awarded, and the hunt is considered once-in-a-lifetime. Only Nebraska residents are able to apply, and a $25 nonrefundable application fee is required.

Nebraska Mountain Lion Seasons

2021 Season

Jan. 2-Feb. 28

*Mountain lion hunts greatly vary by region, as do harvest quotas. For some regions, it is required to confirm that the season is open each day prior to hunting, as closure could happen at any time due to harvest quotas being filled. Permits can be obtained through auction or lottery. For more information on mountain lion regulations, be sure to visit the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission website.

Nebraska Small Game Seasons

Squirrel	Aug. 1-Jan. 31
Rabbit	Sept. 1-Feb. 28
Grouse	Sept. 1-Jan. 31
Pheasant, Quail, Partridge	Oct. 30-Jan. 1

How To Get A Hunting License In Nebraska?

Depending on your age, you may be required to have the Hunter Education Certificate in order to legally buy a license or permit to hunt.

Complete the Nebraska hunter education certification requirements.
Choose the correct permit type.
Buy the permit through the Nebraska Game & Parks Commission website or a Nebraska–approved vendor.

Nebraska Permit and Stamp Expiration

Permits and stamps are good for the calendar year. Nebraska residents and non-residents are able to purchase a lifetime hunting permit and stamp.

Where to Buy a Nebraska Hunting Permit

Visit the Nebraska Game & Parks Commission website.
Visit a Nebraska Game & Parks Commission office or an approved permit vendor.

Bag limits, special seasons and hunting regulations for Nebraska hunting seasons do vary based on animal and region. For more information on obtaining licenses, permits and regulations, visit the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission website.