North Carolina Hunting Seasons & Licensing: What You Need To Know

If you're a hunter, you need to be familiar with the North Carolina hunting seasons and licensing requirements.

In this blog post, we will provide an overview of the hunting season dates and license requirements for residents and non-residents. We will also discuss the different types of licenses available, as well as the application process.

So, whether you're a first-time hunter or a seasoned pro, read on to learn more about hunting in North Carolina!

Hunting In North Carolina

Hunting is a popular and economically significant recreational activity in North Carolina. Each year, hunting generates more than $400 million of sales revenues and taxes for the state. The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission manages hunting opportunities and regulations in the state.

There are different types of hunting that you can do in North Carolina. Big game hunting includes hunting deer, bear, elk, boar, and squirrel. Small game hunting includes hunting rabbits, doves, quail, and Woodcock. There is also waterfowl hunting which includes hunting ducks and geese.

Before you go hunting in North Carolina, you need to get a hunting license. You can get a hunting license from the Wildlife Resources Commission. You also need to take a hunting safety course if you are born on or after January 1, 1969.

When hunting, it is important to be aware of hunting regulations. These regulations vary depending on the type of hunting, the animal being hunted, and the county where you will be hunting. It is also important to be aware of hunting seasons.

Hunting is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and spend time with friends and family. It is also an important part of North Carolina’s economy.

North Carolina Black Bear Seasons

General Season

Oct. 18-Jan. 1**

**Season dates vary by zone. Visit the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission website for specific county dates. It is illegal to take cubs (less than 75 pounds) or female bears with cubs. Nonresidents must obtain a bear hunting license prior to hunting.

North Carolina Deer Seasons

Youth Day	Sept. 25
Urban Archery	Jan. 15-Feb. 20
Archery	Sept. 11-Nov. 5**
Muzzleloader/Blackpowder	Oct. 2-Nov. 19**
Firearms	Oct. 16-Jan. 1**

**Season dates vary by zone. Urban archery deer seasons are open in only specific cities. For more information on specific season start and end dates in your area, visit the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission website.

North Carolina Wild Turkey Seasons

Spring Youth Season	Apr. 2-8
Spring General Season	Apr. 9-May 7

North Carolina Small Game Seasons

Raccoon and Opossum	Oct. 18-Feb. 28
Gray and Red Squirrel	Oct. 18-Feb. 28
Fox Squirrel	Oct. 18-Jan. 31
Rabbit	Oct. 18-Feb. 28
Quail	Nov. 20-Feb. 28
Grouse	Oct. 18-Feb. 28
Bobcat	Oct. 18-Feb. 28
Pheasant	Nov. 20-Feb. 1

How To Get A Hunting License In North Carolina?

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 North Carolina hunter education certification requirements.
Choose the correct license type.
Buy the license through the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission website or a North Carolina–approved agent.

North Carolina License Expiration

Hunting licenses are good for 12 months from the date of purchase. North Carolina residents and non-residents are able to purchase a lifetime hunting license.

Where to Buy a North Carolina Hunting License

Visit the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission website.
Call 1-888-248-6834.
Visit the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission office or an approved agent.
Mail in a paper application.

**Season dates vary by zone. Some areas of North Carolina limit hunting to particular dates.

Bag limits, special seasons and hunting regulations for North Carolina hunting seasons do vary based on animal and seasons. For more information on obtaining licenses, permits and regulations, visit the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission website.