North Dakota Hunting Seasons, 2018 – 2019

Looking for a hunting adventure? North Dakota hunting seasons offer every hunter an unforgettable opportunity to catch animals in its scenic woods and explore numerous hunting areas.

North Dakota is a state where a hunter can enjoy the hunting experience at its finest. 

There are numerous big game species such as mule and white-tail deer, turkey, elk, bighorn and more, but also there are small game species like tree and ground squirrel, crow, pheasant, rabbit and many others.

The state of North Dakota is one of the best spots for pheasant hunting.

*NOTE: Season dates may vary by the zone.

What do you need to get a license in North Dakota? 

First, depending on your age, you may have to pass a Hunter Education Course to be able to buy a license. After that, you can choose the appropriate license for you.

Resident License – a resident is a person who has lived in North Dakota for minimum six months. Non-resident students and active duty military personnel are considered residents. You may need some additional licenses if you want to hunt a specific game.

Non-resident License requirements are similar like for the residents, just the prices for licenses are higher.

Youth License – residents and non-residents under 16 years old can purchase a youth license. For the first time hunters, there is an Apprentice License available, and it can be bought once in a lifetime. Apprentice hunters can hunt with this license without a hunter education passed.

North Dakota doesn’t offer different hunting licenses for senior citizens. Special hunting permits are available for people with disabilities.

For all license prices and special permits or stamps, you can visit the North Dakota Game and Fish website. All licenses can be purchased online.

For fox (red and gray) and coyote night hunting is allowed but only with natural light. Other species cannot be hunted at night. 

If you want to hunt fox or coyote at night, you must do it on foot, and you are only allowed to use a predator call.

Use of any artificial equipment, night vision, spotlight, thermal equipment and electronically enhanced light is strictly prohibited.

In North Dakota, you can hunt on private or public lands. For easier managing and finding the right land you want to hunt in, you can check the maps.

Private Lands – no hunting is allowed on private lands without permission from the landowner or lease. Landowners and North Dakota Game and Fish Department are working together in creating more opportunities for hunters. Regulations for private lands can change easily, so before every hunt be sure to check the most recent regulations.

Public Lands – there are various types of public areas on which you can hunt. Although you need to be careful, different regions have different regulations, and not all of them may be open for hunting. Be sure always to check the area where you plan to hunt.