New Hampshire hunting seasons open Sept. 1

posted on 8/29/2024

New Hampshire’s fall hunting seasons kick off on Sunday, Sept. 1, with the opening of black bear and gray squirrel seasons. Archery seasons for turkey and white-tailed deer get underway Sept. 15, and the statewide resident Canada goose hunt runs Sept. 1–25.

Apprentice hunting licenses are an option for people age 16 and older who want to try hunting but have not taken Hunter Education or who have not been able to schedule a field day. The apprentice hunting license allows unlicensed people to hunt under the guidance of a licensed hunter age 18 or older. Apprentice licenses are available only at NH Fish and Game Headquarters, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord.

As the fall hunting seasons begin, the NH Fish and Game Department asks hunters not to use natural urine-based deer lures. These products can potentially spread chronic wasting disease (CWD), a neurological disorder that is always fatal to white-tailed deer and moose. Synthetic lures are suggested.

Hunters should remember to take proper care when handling wild game to minimize possible exposure to wildlife diseases. First and foremost, hunters should avoid shooting or handling any animal that appears sick.

New Hampshire hunting licenses and permits can be purchased online anytime at www.nhfishandgame.com.