The Guide to Hunting in Connecticut This Season

Ready to plan when to go hunting in Connecticut this year? We're here to help! Keep reading for the information you need for hunting licenses, bag limits, season dates, and more.

We'll also help you find the best areas to hunt so you can plan for success.

Why Do Hunters Hunt in Connecticut?

Comparatively, Connecticut has far less available hunting acreage than, say, California or Texas. But hunters in Connecticut know you don't need a lot of land for an excellent (and successful) hunt. You just need to know the best times to get out in the field and the best spots to hunt based on animal movement and the weather!

Connecticut may not have the largest variety of animals to hunt, either – but there's no shortage of wild game to pursue. Extend your deer hunting season by participating in archery, rifle, and muzzleloader seasons. Or, head out and try your hand at a wide range of game birds, including ducks, quail, geese, and pheasants.

It's an excellent state for hunting year-round, whether you live there or visit Connecticut.

Where Should I Hunt?

We mentioned that Connecticut may not have the same volume of acreage available in larger states. Still, the state makes a significant amount of its public lands available for hunting — including some state parks and forests. You'll also find availability on private lands (with permission from landowners, of course).

If you plan to hunt deer, you're likely to find the biggest trophies in the state's northwest areas. However, whitetail hunting is available throughout the state.

HuntWise can help you target (and mark) the best hunting areas while also helping you navigate landowner boundaries. So, when hunting in Connecticut this year, use the app to scout the best places to hunt and mark the terrain on your map — so you're ahead of other hunters before the season starts!

When Can I Hunt?

So, when should you plan your first hunt of the year? Our guide will help you pinpoint the dates to put on your calendar, whether you're after deer, turkey, or waterfowl.

Note that the information we provide is the latest available from the Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection. As new information becomes available, we'll update this guide.

Additionally, we recommend checking official resources for the latest hunting and trapping season dates before finalizing your hunt plans.
 

For additional details about specifics for the game animals listed above (and any animals not listed in this guide, including trapping for furbearers), visit the CT.gov website or reference the Hunting and Trapping Season Guide.

What Do I Need to Know About Connecticut Hunting Regulations?

While Connecticut doesn't require hunter education, it's always a good idea. The state offers firearm and bowhunting safety courses, and you can also take an online hunter education course to learn about safety in the field.

All hunters must have a valid license before hunting. You can purchase the license you need 24/7 through the state's online licensing system. Hunters can also buy licenses in person at several official locations.

If you're 65 or older and a resident of the state, your license is free – just make sure you have one.  

Depending on the game you hunt, you might also need stamps or permits. If you're hunting during a lottery season, make sure you've applied during the open application dates.

What are the Bag Limits for Hunting in Connecticut?

How many mergansers, deer, or turkeys can you bring home this year? To comply with Connecticut's hunting regulations, make sure you know the bag limits for every animal you plan to hunt. 

Here's a quick look:

What Else Do I Need Before I Can Hunt?

You need the right gear! 

Make sure you have everything you need in the field for successful hunts, including the right hunting knife, a good tree stand, a solid pair of binoculars, and a good rifle for firearm hunts.

If you're starting from scratch or looking to build on your current gear set, use your gear discounts through our HuntWise partners. From clothing to optics and odor control, HuntWise hunting app users can save hundreds on gear.

HuntWise Helps You Tag Out When Hunting in Connecticut

We hope the dates and details we shared today help you plan a successful hunt (or several) in Connecticut this season! It's a lot of information, so be sure to consult official resources, too.

What else do you need for a successful hunt? The HuntWise hunting app!

Our app connects you to up-to-date information on hunting seasons, including links to the latest license information and regulations. With the app, you can also scout and plan your hunt before heading out — helping you gain an advantage over other hunters.

HuntWise is the best tool for e-scouting public or private hunting land. Plus, Elite subscribers can check out exclusive FieldGuide+ content with hunting tips from our Pros and save up to 40% on gear from our partners.

Download the app and start your free trial so you're ready to hunt on opening day!