New Jersey Hunting Seasons 2023-2024 New Dates & Regulations

Bookmark & Share it for Future Reference!

Pack your gear and get ready for an outdoor experience during the New Jersey hunting seasons 2023–2024. New Jersey is a hunter’s paradise because of its abundance of wildlife and many hunting opportunities throughout the year. Every season in the state offers a new and exciting hunting opportunity, whether for deer in the fall and winter or turkey in the spring and summer. To that end, we’ve compiled this comprehensive guide to New Jersey’s hunting seasons in a style that’s simple to read and follow. Learn more about hunting seasons, regulations, and laws to have the most rewarding hunting experience possible.

New Jersey Hunting Seasons

It’s important to note that hunting seasons can vary depending on the region, typically running from November or December to January or February. So, be sure to double-check with your local wildlife management for specific dates and regulations.

For those who love turkey hunting, there are two seasons to choose from in New Jersey: the fall season from the end of October to the beginning of November and the spring season from the end of April to the middle of May. But, don’t forget to check in with your municipality each year as the dates may change. And, duck hunting season also varies by zone, with the north zone offering the longest season and the south zone having the shortest. Make sure to familiarize yourself with the specific regulations in your hunting zone to ensure a successful and safe hunting experience.

Please find a complete list of hunting schedule guides with printable options for your perusal below.

New Jersey Deer Seasons

A specialized deer permit is available in New Jersey for ardent hunters who want to take part in the deer shooting seasons from 2023 through 2024. It’s crucial to remember that all hunting permits are good for a full calendar year, regardless of the kind of wildlife being pursued. Farmers have a small exemption in that they are not need to get a hunting license in order to shoot deer on their own property, but they are still required to report any deer they successfully harvest to the appropriate authorities.

New Jersey Deer Hunting
New Jersey Deer Hunting

Deer hunting in New Jersey is a thrilling experience for hunters, with three different seasons to choose from. Whether you prefer to hunt with a bow during the autumn bow season, the winter bow season, or with a firearm during the six-buck firearms season, there’s something for every hunter.

New Jersey Archery Deer Seasons

SeasonZonesStart DateEnd DateBag Limit
Fall Bow7, 8, 9*, 10, 11, 12, 13*, 14, 15, 17, 36, 41, 49, 50, 51Sept. 9, 2023Sept. 29, 2023Sept. 9-29: Must take 1 antlerless deer first. Sept. 30 - Oct. 27: First deer either sex. Unlimited antlerless and 1 antlered deer. 2 deer may be taken at a time.
Fall Bow7, 8, 9*, 10, 11, 12, 13*, 14, 15, 17, 36, 41, 49, 50, 51Sept. 30, 2023Oct. 27, 2023Unlimited antlerless and 1 antlered deer. 2 deer may be taken at a time.
Fall Bow5, 19, 25, 42, 48Sept. 9, 2023Oct. 27, 20239 antlerless and 1 antlered deer. 2 deer may be taken at a time.
Fall Bow2, 16, 27*, 28*, 29*, 31*, 35*, 47*Sept. 9, 2023Oct. 27, 20235 antlerless and 1 antlered deer
Fall Bow4, 6Sept. 9, 2023Oct. 27, 2023Unlimited antlerless and 1 antlered deer
Fall Bow1, 3*, 4, 18, 22, 26Sept. 9, 2023Oct. 27, 20231 antlerless and 1 antlered deer
Fall Bow21, 23, 24, 34*, 43, 45, 46Sept. 9, 2023Oct. 27, 20231 deer, either sex
Youth Day - ArcheryAll zonesSept. 23, 2023Sept. 23, 20231 deer, either sex
Permit Bow10, 11, 13*, 14, 15, 36, 49, 50, 51Oct. 28, 2023Dec. 31, 2023Unlimited antlerless and 1 antlered deer. 2 deer may be taken at a time.
Permit Bow7, 8, 9*, 12, 17, 41Oct. 28, 2023Dec. 31, 2023Unlimited antlerless and 1 antlered deer. 2 deer may be taken at a time.
Permit Bow5, 19, 25, 42, 48Oct. 28, 2023Nov. 26, 20239 antlerless and 1 antlered deer. 2 deer may be taken at a time.
Permit Bow2, 16, 27*, 28*, 29*, 31*, 35*, 47*Oct. 28, 2023Nov. 26, 20235 antlerless and 1 antlered deer
Permit Bow4, 6Oct. 28, 2023Nov. 26, 2023Unlimited antlerless and 1 antlered deer
Permit Bow1, 3*, 4, 18, 22, 26Oct. 28, 2023Nov. 26, 20231 antlerless and 1 antlered deer
Permit Bow21, 23, 24, 34*, 43, 45, 46Oct. 28, 2023Nov. 18, 20231 deer, either sex
Winter Bow7, 8, 9*, 10, 11, 12, 13*, 14, 15, 17, 36, 41, 49, 50, 51Jan. 1, 2024Feb. 17, 2024Unlimited antlerless and 1 antlered deer. 2 deer may be taken at a time.
Winter Bow5, 19, 25, 42, 48Jan. 1, 2024Jan. 31, 20249 antlerless and 1 antlered deer. 2 deer may be taken at a time.
Winter Bow2, 16, 27*, 28*, 29*, 31*, 35*, 47*Jan. 1, 2024Feb. 17, 20245 antlerless and 1 antlered deer
Winter Bow4, 6Jan. 1, 2024Feb. 17, 2024Unlimited antlerless and 1 antlered deer
Winter Bow1, 3*, 4, 18, 22, 26Jan. 1, 2024Feb. 17, 20241 antlerless and 1 antlered deer
Winter Bow21, 23, 24, 34*, 43, 45, 46Jan. 1, 2024Feb. 17, 20241 deer, either sex

It is recommended that you cross-reference the dates with the Archery Deer hunting digest below before planning a hunt.

New Jersey Firearm Deer Seasons

SeasonZonesStart DateEnd DateBag Limit
Youth Day - FirearmAll zonesNov. 18, 2023Nov. 18, 20231 deer, either sex
Permit Muzzleloader1, 3*, 4, 18, 21, 22, 23, 24, 26, 34*, 43, 45, 46Nov. 27, 2023Nov. 28, 20231 antlerless and 1 antlered deer
Permit Muzzleloader1, 3*, 4, 18, 21, 22, 23, 24, 26, 34*, 43, 45, 46Dec. 11, 2023Dec. 12, 20231 antlerless and 1 antlered deer
Permit Muzzleloader1, 3*, 4, 18, 21, 22, 23, 24, 26, 34*, 43, 45, 46Dec. 16, 2023Dec. 23, 20231 antlerless and 1 antlered deer
Permit Muzzleloader1, 3*, 4, 18, 21, 22, 23, 24, 26, 34*, 43, 45, 46Dec. 26, 2023Dec. 30, 20231 antlerless and 1 antlered deer
Permit Muzzleloader1, 3*, 4, 18, 21, 22, 23, 24, 26, 34*, 43, 45, 46Jan. 1, 2024Feb. 10, 20241 antlerless and 1 antlered deer
Permit Muzzleloader2, 16, 27*, 28*, 29*, 31*, 35*, 47*Nov. 27, 2023Nov. 28, 20235 antlerless and 1 antlered deer
Permit Muzzleloader2, 16, 27*, 28*, 29*, 31*, 35*, 47*Dec. 11, 2023Dec. 12, 20235 antlerless and 1 antlered deer
Permit Muzzleloader2, 16, 27*, 28*, 29*, 31*, 35*, 47*Dec. 16, 2023Dec. 23, 20235 antlerless and 1 antlered deer
Permit Muzzleloader2, 16, 27*, 28*, 29*, 31*, 35*, 47*Dec. 26, 2023Dec. 30, 20235 antlerless and 1 antlered deer
Permit Muzzleloader2, 16, 27*, 28*, 29*, 31*, 35*, 47*Jan. 1, 2024Jan. 5, 20245 antlerless and 1 antlered deer
Permit Muzzleloader4, 6Nov. 27, 2023Nov. 28, 2023Unlimited antlerless and 1 antlered deer
Permit Muzzleloader4, 6Dec. 11, 2023Dec. 12, 2023Unlimited antlerless and 1 antlered deer
Permit Muzzleloader4, 6Dec. 16, 2023Dec. 23, 2023Unlimited antlerless and 1 antlered deer
Permit Muzzleloader4, 6Dec. 26, 2023Dec. 30, 2023Unlimited antlerless and 1 antlered deer
Permit Muzzleloader4, 6Jan. 1, 2024Feb. 10, 2024Unlimited antlerless and 1 antlered deer
Permit Muzzleloader5, 19, 25, 42, 48Nov. 27, 2023Nov. 28, 20239 antlerless and 1 antlered deer. 2 deer may be taken at a time.
Permit Muzzleloader5, 19, 25, 42, 48Dec. 11, 2023Dec. 12, 20239 antlerless and 1 antlered deer. 2 deer may be taken at a time.
Permit Muzzleloader5, 19, 25, 42, 48Dec. 16, 2023Dec. 23, 20239 antlerless and 1 antlered deer. 2 deer may be taken at a time.
Permit Muzzleloader5, 19, 25, 42, 48Dec. 26, 2023Dec. 30, 20239 antlerless and 1 antlered deer. 2 deer may be taken at a time.
Permit Muzzleloader5, 19, 25, 42, 48Jan. 1, 2024Jan. 31, 20249 antlerless and 1 antlered deer. 2 deer may be taken at a time.
Permit Muzzleloader7, 8, 9*, 12, 17, 41Dec. 4, 2023Dec. 9, 2023Unlimited antlerless deer
Permit Muzzleloader7, 8, 9*, 12, 17, 41Nov. 27, 2023Nov. 28, 2023Unlimited antlerless and 1 antlered deer. 2 deer may be taken at a time.
Permit Muzzleloader7, 8, 9*, 12, 17, 41Dec. 11, 2023Dec. 12, 2023Unlimited antlerless and 1 antlered deer. 2 deer may be taken at a time.
Permit Muzzleloader7, 8, 9*, 12, 17, 41Dec. 16, 2023Dec. 23, 2023Unlimited antlerless and 1 antlered deer. 2 deer may be taken at a time.
Permit Muzzleloader7, 8, 9*, 12, 17, 41Dec. 26, 2023Dec. 30, 2023Unlimited antlerless and 1 antlered deer. 2 deer may be taken at a time.
Permit Muzzleloader7, 8, 9*, 12, 17, 41Jan. 1, 2024Feb. 10, 2024Unlimited antlerless and 1 antlered deer. 2 deer may be taken at a time.
Permit Muzzleloader10, 11, 13*, 14, 15, 36, 49, 50, 51Nov. 20, 2023Nov. 22, 2023Unlimited antlerless deer
Permit Muzzleloader10, 11, 13*, 14, 15, 36, 49, 50, 51Nov. 24, 2023Dec. 9, 2023Unlimited antlerless deer
Permit Muzzleloader10, 11, 13*, 14, 15, 36, 49, 50, 51Nov. 27, 2023Nov. 28, 2023Unlimited antlerless and 1 antlered deer. 2 deer may be taken at a time.
Permit Muzzleloader10, 11, 13*, 14, 15, 36, 49, 50, 51Dec. 11, 2023Dec. 12, 2023Unlimited antlerless and 1 antlered deer. 2 deer may be taken at a time.
Permit Muzzleloader10, 11, 13*, 14, 15, 36, 49, 50, 51Dec. 16, 2023Dec. 23, 2023Unlimited antlerless and 1 antlered deer. 2 deer may be taken at a time.
Permit Muzzleloader10, 11, 13*, 14, 15, 36, 49, 50, 51Dec. 26, 2023Dec. 30, 2023Unlimited antlerless and 1 antlered deer. 2 deer may be taken at a time.
Permit Muzzleloader10, 11, 13*, 14, 15, 36, 49, 50, 51Jan. 1, 2024Feb. 10, 2024Unlimited antlerless and 1 antlered deer. 2 deer may be taken at a time.
Six-Day FirearmAll zonesDec. 4, 2023Dec. 9, 20232 antlered deer. Only 1 buck at a time.
Permit Shotgun1, 3*, 4, 18, 21, 22, 23, 24, 26, 34*, 43, 45, 46Dec. 13, 2023Dec. 15, 20231 antlerless and 1 antlered deer
Permit Shotgun2, 16, 27*, 28*, 29*, 31*, 35*, 47*Dec. 13, 2023Dec. 15, 20235 antlerless and 1 antlered deer
Permit Shotgun2, 16, 27*, 28*, 29*, 31*, 35*, 47*Jan. 13, 2024Jan. 20, 20245 antlerless and 1 antlered deer
Permit Shotgun4, 6Dec. 13, 2023Dec. 15, 2023Unlimited antlerless and 1 antlered deer
Permit Shotgun5, 19, 25, 42, 48Dec. 13, 2023Dec. 15, 20239 antlerless and 1 antlered deer. 2 deer may be taken at a time.
Permit Shotgun5, 19, 25, 42, 48Jan. 6, 2024Jan. 31, 20249 antlerless and 1 antlered deer. 2 deer may be taken at a time.
Permit Shotgun7, 8, 9*, 12, 17, 41Dec. 4, 2023Dec. 9, 2023Unlimited antlerless deer
Permit Shotgun7, 8, 9*, 12, 17, 41Dec. 13, 2023Dec. 15, 2023Unlimited antlerless and 1 antlered deer. 2 deer may be taken at a time.
Permit Shotgun7, 8, 9*, 12, 17, 41Jan. 6, 2024Feb. 10, 2024Unlimited antlerless and 1 antlered deer. 2 deer may be taken at a time.
Permit Shotgun10, 11, 13*, 14, 15, 36, 49, 50, 51Nov. 20, 2023Nov. 22, 2023Unlimited antlerless deer
Permit Shotgun10, 11, 13*, 14, 15, 36, 49, 50, 51Nov. 24, 2023Dec. 9, 2023Unlimited antlerless deer
Permit Shotgun10, 11, 13*, 14, 15, 36, 49, 50, 51Dec. 13, 2023Dec. 15, 2023Unlimited antlerless and 1 antlered deer. 2 deer may be taken at a time.
Permit Shotgun10, 11, 13*, 14, 15, 36, 49, 50, 51Jan. 6, 2024Feb. 10, 2024Unlimited antlerless and 1 antlered deer. 2 deer may be taken at a time.

It is recommended that you cross-reference the dates with the Firearm Deer hunting digest below before planning a hunt.

NJ Turkey seasons

Season/PeriodStart DateEnd DateBag Limit
Fall TurkeyOct. 28, 20231 turkey (either sex) per permit
Fall TurkeyOct. 30, 2023Nov. 4, 20231 turkey (either sex) per permit
Youth Turkey Day20-Apr-24April 20, 2024 (noon)1 male turkey per permit (no bearded hens)
Spring Turkey Period Y20-Apr-2412-May-241 male turkey per permit (no bearded hens)
Spring Turkey Period Y13-May-2424-May-241 male turkey per permit (no bearded hens)
Spring Turkey Period A22-Apr-24April 26, 2024 (noon)1 male turkey per permit (no bearded hens)
Spring Turkey Period B29-Apr-24May 3, 2024 (noon)1 male turkey per permit (no bearded hens)
Spring Turkey Period C6-May-24May 10, 2024 (noon)1 male turkey per permit (no bearded hens)
Spring Turkey Period D13-May-24May 17, 2024 (noon)1 male turkey per permit (no bearded hens)
Spring Turkey Period D20-May-2424-May-241 male turkey per permit (no bearded hens)
Spring Turkey Period EApril 27, 2024 (noon)27-Apr-241 male turkey per permit (no bearded hens)
Spring Turkey Period EMay 4, 2024 (noon)4-May-241 male turkey per permit (no bearded hens)
Spring Turkey Period EMay 11, 2024 (noon)11-May-241 male turkey per permit (no bearded hens)
Spring Turkey Period E18-May-2418-May-241 male turkey per permit (no bearded hens)

Regulations for spring and fall turkey hunting

  • Artificial decoys are allowed; decoys that operate electronically are not.
  • A weapon may not be carried when turkey hunting within 300 feet of a baited area.
  • From a blind or tree stand, you may go turkey hunting.
  • Coyotes may be accidentally killed by turkey hunters before they reach their daily bag limit. Call 1-855-448-6865 to report coyote harvests, or report them online at NJ.WildlifeLicense.com
  • It’s illegal to stalk a turkey.
  • Fanning or reaping is the practice of sneaking up on a turkey using a hand-held decoy or tail as a protection cover.

NJ Bear Season

SegmentMethod/TypeStart DateEnd DateBag Limit
Segment AArcheryOct. 9, 2023Oct. 14, 20231 bear, >75 lbs live weight
Segment AArchery/MuzzleloaderOct. 12, 2023Oct. 14, 20231 bear, >75 lbs live weight
Segment BShotgun/MuzzleloaderDec. 4, 2023Dec. 9, 20231 bear, >75 lbs live weight
Segment B ExtensionShotgun/MuzzleloaderDec. 13, 2023Dec. 16, 20231 bear, >75 lbs live weight

Additional details:

  • Only from October 9–11 is archery hunting permitted in Segment A. Between October 12 and 14, muzzleloaders are permitted.
  • Shotguns and muzzleloaders are permitted in segment B.
  • Segment B may get an extension from December 13–16.
  • No sows with cubs or bear cubs may be captured.
  • There are required bear checks and baiting regulations. Details in full are in the digest.
  • Only one bear may be taken per permit, although if the hunter possesses licenses for more than one zone, only one bear may be taken in each section.

Coyote Season

Coyote SeasonHunting Start DatesHunting End DatesBag Limit
Regular Season
Bow Only30-Sep-2310-Nov-23No daily or seasonal bag limit
Bow / Shotgun11-Nov-2315-Mar-24No daily or seasonal bag limit
Special Permit Season
Bow/Shotgun/Riffle (Day)1-Jan-2415-Mar-24No daily or seasonal bag limit
Shotgun Only (Night)1-Jan-2415-Mar-24No daily or seasonal bag limit

Fox Season

Fox SeasonHunting Start DatesHunting End DatesBag Limit
Regular Season
Bow Only30-Sep-2310-Nov-23No daily or seasonal bag limit
Bow / Shotgun11-Nov-2315-Mar-24No daily or seasonal bag limit
Special Permit Season
Bow/Shotgun/Riffle (Day)1-Jan-2415-Mar-24No daily or seasonal bag limit
Shotgun Only (Night)1-Jan-2415-Mar-24No daily or seasonal bag limit

Small Game Season

Squirrel Season

SpeciesMethod/TypeStart DateEnd DateBag Limits
Gray SquirrelMuzzleloading RifleSept. 30, 2023Nov. 10, 2023Daily: 5, No season limit
Muzzleloading RifleJan. 6, 2024Feb. 24, 2024Daily: 5, No season limit
Gray SquirrelAir Gun, Bow, ShotgunSept. 30, 2023Feb. 24, 20245 squirrel

Rabbit Season

SpeciesMethod/TypeStart DateEnd DateBag Limits
Rabbit/Hare SeasonAir Gun, Bow, ShotgunSept. 30, 2023Feb. 24, 20241 hare or jackrabbit, and 4 cottontail (No season limit.)

Raccoon Season

SpeciesMethod/TypeStart DateEnd DateBag Limits
Raccoon Season (Night Hunting)Air Gun, .22 cal. rifle, ShotgunOct. 2, 2023Mar. 1, 2024No limit
Raccoon SeasonClosed Dec. 4–9 & 13, 2023

Opossum Season

SpeciesMethod/TypeStart DateEnd DateBag Limits
Opossum Season (Night Hunting)Air Gun, .22 cal. rifle, ShotgunOct. 2, 2023Mar. 1, 2024No limit
Opossum Season (Night Hunting)Closed Dec. 4–9 & 13, 2023

Woodchuck Season

Woodchuck SeasonStart DateEnd DateBag Limits
Bow or Shotgun11-Nov-23No daily or seasonal bag limits
Bow or Shotgun1-Mar-2324-Feb-24No daily or seasonal bag limits
Bow or ShotgunClosed Dec 4–9 & 13, 2023N/A
Bow or Shotgun9-Nov-24No daily or seasonal bag limits
Bow or Shotgun1-Mar-2422-Feb-25No daily or seasonal bag limits
Bow or ShotgunClosed Dec 2–7 & 11, 2024N/A
Modern or Muzzleloading Rifle1-Mar-2327-Sep-23No daily or seasonal bag limits
Modern or Muzzleloading Rifle1-Mar-2425-Sep-24No daily or seasonal bag limits

Upland Bird Season

Quail Season

SpeciesHunting Start DatesHunting End DatesBag Limit
Bobwhite quail (stocked)11-Nov-23 (8 am)31-Jan-244
Closed Dec 4–9 & 13, 2023
Bobwhite quail (wild), Ruffed grouseClosed statewide
Quail (Semi-Wild Preserves)Nov 11, 2023 at 8 am15-Mar-24No Limit
Quail (Commercial Shooting Preserves)1-Sep-231-May-24No Limit

Pheasant Season

SpeciesHunting Start DatesHunting End DatesBag Limit
Pheasant SeasonNov. 11, 2023 at 8 a.m.19-Feb-242
Closed Dec. 4–9 & 13, 2023
Youth Pheasant Days6-Nov-2310-Nov-232
Youth Upland Bird Day (Pheasant)Saturday, Nov. 4, 20232
Pheasant (Semi-Wild Preserves)Nov. 11, 2023 at 8 a.m15-Mar-24No Limit
Pheasant (Commercial Shooting Preserves)1-Sep-231-May-24No Limit

Partridge Season

SpeciesHunting Start DatesHunting End DatesBag Limit
Chukar partridge, Hungarian partridgeNov. 11, 2023 at 8 a.m.Feb. 19, 20247
Closed Dec. 4–9 & 13, 2023
Partridge (Semi-Wild Preserves)Nov 11, 2023 at 8 am15-Mar-24No Limit
Partridge (Commercial Shooting Preserves)1-Sep-231-May-24No Limit

Crow Season

SpeciesHunting Start DatesHunting End DatesBag Limit
Crow (Mon., Thurs., Fri. & Sat. only)14-Aug-232-Dec-23No limit
11-Dec-2316-Mar-24No limit

Migratory Bird Season

Duck Season

Duck SeasonHunting Start DateHunting End DateBag Limits
Ducks (North Zone)14-Oct-2321-Oct-236 in aggregate
Ducks(North Zone)11-Nov-2311-Jan-246 in aggregate
Ducks(South Zone)21-Oct-2328-Oct-236 in aggregate
Ducks(South Zone)18-Nov-2318-Jan-246 in aggregate
Ducks(Coastal Zone)9-Nov-2311-Nov-236 in aggregate
Ducks(Coastal Zone)23-Nov-2327-Jan-246 in aggregate
Harlequin duckClosedClosedNone

Sea Duck Season

Sea Duck SeasonHunting Start DateHunting End DateBag Limits
Sea Ducks (North Zone)14-Oct-2321-Oct-23Not more than 4 sea ducks (not more than 3 scoters, 3 long-tailed ducks or 3 eiders [no more than 1 hen eider]), within total bag of 6 ducks.
Sea Ducks (North Zone)11-Nov-2311-Jan-24Not more than 4 sea ducks (not more than 3 scoters, 3 long-tailed ducks or 3 eiders [no more than 1 hen eider]), within total bag of 6 ducks.
Sea Ducks (South Zone)21-Oct-2328-Oct-23Not more than 4 sea ducks (not more than 3 scoters, 3 long-tailed ducks or 3 eiders [no more than 1 hen eider]), within total bag of 6 ducks.
Sea Ducks (South Zone)18-Nov-2318-Jan-24Not more than 4 sea ducks (not more than 3 scoters, 3 long-tailed ducks or 3 eiders [no more than 1 hen eider]), within total bag of 6 ducks.
Sea Ducks (Coastal Zone)9-Nov-2311-Nov-23Not more than 4 sea ducks (not more than 3 scoters, 3 long-tailed ducks or 3 eiders [no more than 1 hen eider]), within total bag of 6 ducks.
Sea Ducks (Coastal Zone)23-Nov-2327-Jan-24Not more than 4 sea ducks (not more than 3 scoters, 3 long-tailed ducks or 3 eiders [no more than 1 hen eider]), within total bag of 6 ducks.

Mergansers Season

Mergansers SeasonHunting Start DateHunting End DateBag Limits
Mergansers (North Zone)14-Oct-2321-Oct-235
Mergansers(North Zone)11-Nov-2311-Jan-245
Mergansers(South Zone)21-Oct-2328-Oct-235
Mergansers(South Zone)18-Nov-2318-Jan-245
Mergansers(Coastal Zone)9-Nov-2311-Nov-235
Mergansers(Coastal Zone)23-Nov-2327-Jan-245

Coot Season

Coot SeasonHunting Start DateHunting End DateBag Limits
Coot (North Zone)14-Oct-2321-Oct-2315
Coot (North Zone)11-Nov-2311-Jan-2415
Coot (South Zone)21-Oct-2328-Oct-2315
Coot (South Zone)18-Nov-2318-Jan-2415
Coot (Coastal Zone)9-Nov-2311-Nov-2315
Coot (Coastal Zone)23-Nov-2327-Jan-2415

Scaup Season

Scaup SeasonHunting Start DateHunting End DateBag Limits
Scaup (North Zone)14-Oct-2321-Oct-231
Scaup (North Zone)11-Nov-2319-Dec-232
Scaup (North Zone)20-Dec-2311-Jan-242
Scaup (South Zone)21-Oct-2328-Oct-231
Scaup (South Zone)18-Nov-2326-Dec-232
Scaup (South Zone)27-Dec-2318-Jan-242
Scaup (Coastal Zone)9-Nov-2311-Nov-231
Scaup (Coastal Zone)23-Nov-234-Jan-242
Scaup (Coastal Zone)5-Jan-2427-Jan-242

Brant Season

Brant SeasonHunting Start DateHunting End DateBag Limits
Brant (North Zone)11-Nov-2325-Nov-231
Brant (North Zone)23-Dec-2311-Jan-241
Brant (South Zone)21-Oct-2328-Oct-231
Brant (South Zone)18-Nov-2314-Dec-231
Brant (Coastal Zone)23-Nov-232-Dec-231
Brant (Coastal Zone)14-Dec-236-Jan-241

Goose Season

Goose SeasonHunting Start DateHunting End DateBag Limits
Canada Geese (North Zone)18-Nov-2325-Nov-233
Canada Geese (North Zone)16-Dec-2329-Jan-243
Canada Geese (South Zone)18-Nov-2325-Nov-233
Canada Geese (South Zone)16-Dec-2329-Jan-243
Canada Geese (Coastal Zone)9-Nov-2311-Nov-232
Canada Geese (Coastal Zone)23-Nov-2327-Jan-242
Canada Geese (September Season)1-Sep-2330-Sep-2315
Light Geese - Regular Season17-Oct-2315-Feb-2425, singly or in aggregate
Light Geese - Conservation Order16-Feb-246-Apr-24No limit
Canada Geese (Special Winter Season Areas) β€” Singly or in aggregate to include Cackling and White-fronted Goose30-Jan-2315-Feb-235

Youth-only Waterfowl Season

Youth-only Waterfowl SeasonHunting Dates
Youth-only Waterfowl Day (North Zone)Oct. 7, 2023
Youth-only Waterfowl Day (South Zone)Oct. 14, 2023
Youth-only Waterfowl Day (Coastal Zone)Oct. 28, 2023

Youth and Veterans/Active Military Day

SeasonHunting Dates
Youth and Veterans/Active Military Day3-Feb
4-Nov

Snipe Season

SpeciesHunting Start DateHunting End DateBag Limits
Snipe Season9-Sep-2311-Jan-238

Rail Season

Rail SeasonHunting Start DateHunting End DateBag Limits
Rail (Sora, Clapper and Virginia)1-Sep-2321-Nov-23Sora & Virginia rail: 25 total or aggregate; Clapper rail: 10
King railClosedClosedNone

Gallinule Season

SpeciesHunting Start DateHunting End DateBag Limits
Gallinule Season1-Sep-2321-Nov-231

Woodcock Season

Woodcock SeasonHunting Start DatesHunting End DatesBag Limits
Woodcock - North Zone14-Oct28-Oct3
31-Oct25-Nov3
Woodcock - South Zone11-Nov2-Dec3
14-Dec2-Jan3

Swans Season

SpeciesHunting Start DatesHunting End DatesBag Limits
SwansClosedClosedNone

Sandhill Crane Season

SpeciesHunting Start DatesHunting End DatesBag Limits
Sandhill Crane SeasonClosedClosedNone

Dove Season

SpeciesHunting Start DatesHunting End DatesBag Limits
Mourning DoveClosedClosedNone

New Jersey Trapping Seasons

Trapping SeasonMethod/TypeHunting Start DatesHunting End DatesBag Limits
BeaverTrapping26-Dec-239-Feb-24Max 5 traps per day per zone 8 per Special Permit, 10 per Damage Permit
OtterTrapping26-Dec-239-Feb-24Up to 3 otter traps per day 1 per Season Otter carcass must be surrendered to Fish and Wildlife
CoyoteTrapping15-Nov-2315-Mar-24No daily or seasonal limit Coyote harvest must be reported by 8 pm on the day of harvest via the Automated Harvest Report System
Gray Fox, Red FoxTrapping15-Nov-2315-Mar-24No daily or seasonal limit Reporting of Gray Fox is also requested
MinkTrappingNorth Zone: Nov 15, 2023; South Zone: Dec 1, 202315-Mar-24No daily or seasonal limit
MuskratTrappingNorth Zone: Nov 15, 2023; South Zone: Dec 1, 202315-Mar-24No daily or seasonal limit
NutriaTrappingNorth Zone: Nov 15, 2023; South Zone: Dec 1, 202315-Mar-24No daily or seasonal limit
OpossumTrapping15-Nov-2315-Mar-24No daily or seasonal limit
RaccoonTrapping15-Nov-2315-Mar-24No daily or seasonal limit
Striped SkunkTrapping15-Nov-2315-Mar-24No daily or seasonal limit
WeaselsTrapping15-Nov-2315-Mar-24No daily or seasonal limit
BobcatTrappingClosed statewideNo take is allowedIf you find a bobcat in your trap, do not disturb the set; immediately call (877) 927-6337 to report capture, and await Fish and Wildlife's Response Team
FisherTrappingClosed statewideNo take is allowedIf you find a fisher in your trap, do not disturb the set; immediately call (877) 927-6337 to report capture, and await Fish and Wildlife's Response Team

It is recommended that you cross-reference the dates with the hunting digest below before planning a hunt.

New Jersey Hunting Regulations

  1. Firearm hunting is only allowed during designated hunting seasons.
  2. All hunters must have a valid hunting license.
  3. Hunting on private property without permission is illegal.
  4. Hunting is only allowed in designated areas, check with local wildlife management.
  5. Lead ammunition is banned for waterfowl hunting.
  6. Electronic and recorded bird calls are not allowed.
  7. Migratory bird hunting without proper permits is illegal.
  8. Hunting threatened or endangered species is not allowed.
  9. Hunters must wear fluorescent orange clothing while hunting.
  10. Hunting within 450 feet of a dwelling or occupied building without permission is illegal.
  11. Hunting with dogs is allowed in designated areas, check with local wildlife management.
  12. Big game hunting is only allowed during specific seasons with proper tags.
  13. Crossbow hunting during archery season is illegal.
  14. Lights while hunting are restricted, check with local wildlife management.
  15. Possession of illegally taken wildlife is not allowed.
  16. Game bird hunting is regulated by state and federal laws, check with local wildlife management.
  17. Decoy use for hunting is regulated, check with local wildlife management.
  18. Carrying a loaded pistol near a building or school playground without permission is illegal.
  19. Crossing a road with a rifle or bow is prohibited.
  20. Shooting from a moving vehicle is not allowed.
  21. Targeting game with laser or illumination sights is illegal.
  22. Artificial light for detecting or shooting game animals is forbidden except for specific seasons.
  23. Vehicle-mounted or portable lights for nighttime shooting or hunting is restricted.
  24. Hunting with bait is not allowed on national wildlife refuges, and Sunday hunting is prohibited.
  25. Injecting drugs into game animals with projectiles is illegal in all states.
  26. Carrying a loaded handgun on or near a moving vehicle is prohibited.
  27. Loaded weapons or cocked crossbows are not allowed in vehicles.
  28. Mutilation of wild birds or mammals is illegal.

Also, read more about NJ hunting regulations at the eregulation.com website.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does the New Jersey firearms deer hunting season start in 2023-2024?

The New Jersey firearms deer hunting season for 2023–2024 consists of several hunting periods with distinct dates and regulations. Permit bow, shotgun, muzzleloader, youth archery, and firearm hunts are all included in the season. The dates range from September 9, 2023, through February 10, 2024, depending on the kind of hunt and zone. Antlerless or either-sex deer may be pursued by hunters. All skill levels and preferences may find a hunting choice that suits them throughout the season.

What are the migratory bird season dates and hunting zones for 2023–2024?

There are three zones during the 2023–2024 Delaware Migratory Bird Season: North, South, and Coastal. From October 14 to October 21 and from November 11 to January 11 you may hunt ducks, mergansers, and coots in the North Zone. Scaup hunting is permitted from October 14 to October 21, November 11 to December 19, and December 20 to January 11. Nov. 11–25 and Dec. 23–Jan. 11 are prime times for brant hunting. Canada Cackling and White-fronted goose migration from Nov. 18 to Nov. 25 and Dec. 16 to Jan. 29 Hunting of geese is permitted. In the South Zone, you may go duck hunting from October 21 to November 28 and from November 18 to January 18. Scaup hunting occurs from December 27 to January 18 and from November 18 to December 28. Brant hunting season is from October 21–28 and November 18–December 14. Canada Goose hunting season runs from November 18 through to December 16 and from January 29. From November 9 to 11 and from November 23 to January 27 you may hunt ducks, mergansers, and coots in the coastal zone. Scaup hunting season is from November 9–11, 23–4, and 5-27. Brant hunting takes place from Nov. 23 to Dec. 2 and from Dec. 14 to Jan. 6. Canada There are bag limits for each species and zone for the hunting of geese from Nov. 9 to Nov. 11 and from Nov. 23 to Jan. 27.

Can you provide information about the black bear hunting season in New Jersey for the upcoming year?

The New Jersey black bear hunting season has been divided into segments and techniques. From October 9 through October 14, 2023, archery hunting is covered in segment A. One bear weighing more than 75 pounds may now be taken by hunters. From October 12 to 14, 2023, Segment A additionally provides archery/muzzleloader hunting with a bag limit of one bear weighing more than 75 pounds live weight. Hunters may take one bear weighing more than 75 pounds during Segment B, Shotgun/Muzzleloader hunting, which takes place from December 4 to 9, 2023. With the same bag limit of one bear above 75 lbs. live weight, Segment B, shotgun/muzzleloader hunting, is extended from December 13 to 16, 2023. The season for black bear hunting in New Jersey for the next year is determined by these dates and bag limits.

What is the turkey bag limit in New Jersey?

There is no season limit for the 2023–2024 turkey hunting season in New Jersey, and each permit is valid for one bird per day. The Spring Gobbler Season runs from April 20 to May 24, 2024, with a bag limit of one male turkey per permit. The Fall Either Sex Turkey Season runs from October 28 to November 4, 2023, with a bag limitation of one bird (either sex) per permit. With a “Y” licence, young hunters between the ages of 10 and 16 may hunt whenever they want throughout the spring, with a bag limit of one male turkey. Hunting licenses and turkey permits are required in New Jersey and may be obtained online or via authorized vendors.

What kinds of game animals are legal to hunt in New Jersey?

White-tailed deer, wild turkey, black bear, rabbits, squirrels, upland game birds like pheasants and quail, waterfowl like ducks and geese, and furbearers like coyotes, foxes, and raccoons are among the animals that may be hunted in New Jersey. These animals may be hunted from September to December or from October to May. Shotguns, rifles, bows, and airguns are permitted for certain species and hunting methods. It’s crucial to stay up to date with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection since hunting regulations change annually.

Regulation Source: DEP New Jersey

John Lewis

2 thoughts on “New Jersey Hunting Seasons 2023-2024 New Dates & Regulations”

  1. Hi I am a nonresident hunter interested in hunting black bear. Can you provide a list of property owners who are willing to allow a hunter to harvest a black bear. Also can you give me information on public land that nonresident hunters can access to harvest a bear.

    Reply
    • Contacting local hunting clubs or groups in New Jersey, such as the New Jersey State Federation of Sportsmen’s Clubs, to enquire about hunting prospects and possible property owners who permit hunting is one option. The New Jersey Hunter Access Program, which collaborates with private landowners to give public hunting access on their lands, is another alternative. It is essential to remember, however, that participating landowners maintain their rights as landowners and may create their own rules and boundaries for property usage.

      Reply

Leave a Comment