Quick Answer
First-time hunters in New Hampshire should familiarize themselves with the state's deer hunting regulations, including seasons, bag limits, and licensing requirements, as well as obtain a hunting license and complete a hunter education course.
Licenses and Permits
New Hampshire requires a hunting license for all deer hunters, which can be obtained through the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department’s website or at a local license vendor. The license fee is currently $35 for residents and $135 for non-residents. Hunters also need to obtain a free deer permit, which is available online or at a license vendor. A hunter education course is required for all first-time hunters, and a $15 fee is charged for the course. The course typically includes both classroom and field instruction.
Hunting Seasons and Bag Limits
The deer hunting season in New Hampshire typically runs from mid-November to mid-December, with a statewide bag limit of one antlered deer and two antlerless deer. However, antlerless deer seasons are also held in late August and early September, and hunters can harvest up to two antlerless deer during these seasons. Hunters are required to report their harvest online or by phone within 24 hours of taking a deer.
Additional Regulations
New Hampshire has several other regulations that hunters should be aware of, including a requirement to wear at least 500 square inches of fluorescent orange clothing while hunting deer during the firearms season, and a prohibition on hunting deer with dogs. Hunters are also required to check in with a wildlife biologist or a conservation officer to have their deer checked for Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD).
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