When does whitetail season open in Delaware in 2026?

Delaware's 2026 whitetail archery season opens September 1 and runs through January 31. Always confirm exact dates with the state wildlife agency before hunting.

What big-game species can you hunt in Delaware?

In 2026, Delaware has hunting seasons for whitetail.

How much is a Delaware hunting license for nonresidents?

A hunting license (annual) in Delaware is $199.50 for nonresidents and $39.50 for residents.

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Delaware Hunting Seasons & Prices

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

Delaware offers 2026 hunting seasons for whitetail across archery, firearm, and muzzleloader methods. Seasons run from September 1, 2026 through January 31, 2027. A hunting license (annual) costs $39.50 for residents and $199.50 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

Season	Method	Opens	Closes	Notes	Track
Archery & Crossbow	Archery	Sep 1, 2026	Jan 31, 2027		🔔
Youth / Non-ambulatory	Firearm	Sep 26, 2026	Sep 27, 2026	Also Nov 7–8	🔔
Muzzleloader (October)	Muzzleloader	Oct 9, 2026	Oct 18, 2026		🔔
Shotgun (November)	Firearm	Nov 13, 2026	Nov 22, 2026		🔔
Shotgun (January)	Firearm	Jan 16, 2027	Jan 24, 2027		🔔
Muzzleloader (January)	Muzzleloader	Jan 25, 2027	Jan 31, 2027		🔔

License & tag prices

License	Resident	Nonresident	Notes
Hunting License (annual)	$39.50	$199.50
Deer Tag (antlered combo)	$20	$50

A hunting license plus deer tags is required; the nonresident license includes 4 antlerless tags.

Source: Delaware DNREC Fish & Wildlife license fees (dnrec.delaware.gov)

Delaware hunt units

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

Zone 10 Whitetail Zone 11 Whitetail Zone 12 Whitetail Zone 13 Whitetail Zone 14 Whitetail Zone 15 Whitetail Zone 16 Whitetail Zone 17 Whitetail Zone 1A Whitetail Zone 1B Whitetail Zone 2 Whitetail Zone 3 Whitetail

Browse all Delaware harvest data →

Delaware hunting FAQ

When does whitetail season open in Delaware in 2026?: Delaware's 2026 whitetail archery season opens September 1 and runs through January 31. Always confirm exact dates with the state wildlife agency before hunting.
What big-game species can you hunt in Delaware?: In 2026, Delaware has hunting seasons for whitetail.
How much is a Delaware hunting license for nonresidents?: A hunting license (annual) in Delaware is $199.50 for nonresidents and $39.50 for residents.

📊 Delaware harvest trends

How Delaware's harvest has moved season to season, from official state reports.

Whitetail16,745 in 2025-11.0%