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

Hunting season is a time-honored tradition in Vermont. Whether you're a first-time hunter or a seasoned pro, it's important to know the rules and regulations before you head out into the field.

In this blog post, we will provide an overview of hunting seasons and licensing requirements in Vermont. We'll also touch on some of the most popular game species in the state. So whether you're planning a hunting trip to Vermont or just want to learn more about our hunting laws, read on for all the information you need!

Hunting In Vermont

Hunting in Vermont is a tradition that extends back before the country’s founding. Vermont was the first state with constitutional language that protects its citizens’ right to hunt. With the state’s combination of rolling farmland and thick woods, hunting remains popular and a way to put truly fresh local food on the table. hunting is also a way to connect with the state’s rich history and culture.

For many, hunting in Vermont is about more than just putting food on the table – it’s about connecting with the state’s rich history and culture. hunting has been an important part of Vermont life for centuries, and it remains an important part of the state’s economy and identity today.

If you’re interested in hunting in Vermont, there are a few things you should know. First, you need to have a hunting license. You can get a hunting license from the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department. Second, you need to be aware of the different hunting seasons. Each season has different rules and regulations, so be sure to do your research before heading out. Finally, always practice hunting safety and be respectful of private property.

With a little planning and preparation, hunting in Vermont can be a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

Vermont Deer Seasons

Archery	Oct. 1-Dec. 15
Youth Weekend	Oct. 23-24
Novice Weekend	Oct. 23-24
Muzzleloader Antlerless	Oct. 28-31
November Regular	Nov. 13-28
Muzzleloader	Dec. 4-12

Vermont hunters are limited to four deer per year, and only one may be legal bucks. Youth and novice hunters are permitted to bag two legal bucks, and no more than four deer. Antler restrictions do not apply to young hunters during Youth Deer Weekend.

Vermont Black Bear Seasons

Early Season	Sept. 1-Nov. 12
Late Season	Nov. 13-21

Vermont has ample black bear populations — approximately one bear for every three square miles of the state — allowing for an intriguing and likely successful hunt. Vermont requires a separate Early Bear Season tag to hunt during the early season. Hunters may take one bear per year and are prohibited from using bait. Hunting with dogs is legal so long as the hunter has a bear-dog permit and uses no more than six dogs.

Vermont Moose Seasons

Archery	Oct. 1-7
General Season	Oct. 16-21

Moose hunting is only possible through a permit lottery. Residents and nonresidents are able to apply, though fees vary by resident status. For nonresidents, permits are more difficult to obtain as the state only awards up to 10% of its moose hunting permits to out of state residents.

Vermont Turkey Seasons

Fall Archery	Oct. 2-22
Fall Shotgun or Archery	Oct. 23-Nov. 7**

**Season dates vary by zone. Vermont boasts huge turkey populations, sometimes with flocks of more than 100 turkeys in one location. Dates may vary by region.

Vermont Small Game Seasons

Gray Squirrel	Sept. 1-Dec. 31
Rabbit and Hare	Sept. 25-March 13
Ruffed Grouse	Sept. 25-Dec. 31
Quail and Partridge	Open Season

How To Get A Hunting License In Vermont?

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 Vermont hunter education certification requirements.
Choose the correct license type.
Buy the license through the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department website or a Vermont–approved agent.

Vermont License Expiration

Hunting licenses expire on Dec. 31 of each year. Vermont residents and non-residents are able to purchase a lifetime hunting license. Residents must have lived in Vermont for at least 12 months to be eligible for the resident lifetime license.

Where to Buy a Vermont Hunting License

Visit the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department website.
Visit a Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department office or an approved license agent.
Mail in a paper application.

Vermont bagging totals and available licenses vary by region and lottery. For information on how to obtain season licenses for harvest, visit the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department website.