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Connecticut Hunting Seasons & Prices

2026 big-game season dates and license/tag prices.

Connecticut offers 2026 hunting seasons for whitetail across archery, firearm, and muzzleloader methods. Seasons run from September 15 through December 31, 2026. A hunting license (annual) costs $19 for residents and $91 for nonresidents.

Planning reference only — always confirm dates and prices with the state wildlife agency before applying, buying a license, or hunting.

Season dates

Whitetail

SeasonMethodOpensClosesNotesTrack
Archery (private land)ArcherySep 15, 2026Dec 31, 2026State land: Sept 15–Nov 17 & Dec 23–31. Zones 11–12 extend Jan 1–31🔔
Firearms (shotgun/rifle)FirearmNov 18, 2026Dec 8, 2026State land lottery 'A' season closes Nov 27🔔
MuzzleloaderMuzzleloaderDec 9, 2026Dec 31, 2026State land closes Dec 22🔔

License & tag prices

LicenseResidentNonresidentNotes
Hunting License (annual)$19$91
Small Game & Deer Archery Permit$41$135
Nonresident Deer Tag (big game)$38

Deer hunting needs a hunting license plus a deer permit/tag (the Small Game & Deer Archery permit covers bow).

Source: CT DEEP hunting licenses & permits (portal.ct.gov/deep)

Connecticut hunt units

Explore harvest history, success rates, and draw odds by unit.

Browse all Connecticut harvest data →

Connecticut hunting FAQ

When does whitetail season open in Connecticut in 2026?
Connecticut's 2026 whitetail archery season opens September 15 and runs through December 31. Always confirm exact dates with the state wildlife agency before hunting.
What big-game species can you hunt in Connecticut?
In 2026, Connecticut has hunting seasons for whitetail.
How much is a Connecticut hunting license for nonresidents?
A hunting license (annual) in Connecticut is $91 for nonresidents and $19 for residents.