Hunting is a popular pastime throughout New Jersey, offering an array of different game species. From deer to bear and turkey to waterfowl, there’s something for everyone in the Garden State.
Plenty of public Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) are available with access to thousands of acres of prime hunting grounds – each having its own set of regulations so make sure you check up before going out. Private hunting clubs and preserves can also be contacted directly for access to exclusive spaces. So grab your gear and head outside – it’s time for some unforgettable outdoor adventures.
In this complete guide, we have covered all you need to know about hunting in New Jersey. You will get to know what type of animals you can hunt here, where to hunt them, license information, and hunting seasons.
What Can You Hunt in New Jersey?
With a population estimated at over 100,000 strong in New Jersey alone, white-tailed deer are found throughout the rolling hills of Highlands to dense forests of Pine Barrens. Deer hunting here is certainly an adrenaline-pumping experience.
For those who like big game hunting, NJ got black bears too. Turkey and pheasant offer great small game hunts too – turkeys can be seen across 21 counties while pheasants mostly reside in South NJ offering fast-paced pursuits.
If waterfowl attracts you, then look no further than riverside marshes and wetlands that attract migratory birds by the thousands every year. On top of that rabbits, squirrels, and quails also inhabit this beautiful state
Deer
Welcome to the stunning state of New Jersey, where deer hunting is a lifestyle. Bow hunters have plenty of options here with over 750,000 acres of public land for their exploration and adventure. The terrain is challenging and the abundance of deer makes it an exciting experience that rewards any hunter who takes part in this beloved pastime.
For those looking for more thrill during their hunt, they can take advantage of New Jersey’s six-day firearm season in December when bucks are at their rutting peak – providing unforgettable memories as gunshots reverberate through nearby woods.
What truly sets apart this great state from others when it comes to deer hunting regulations is its commitment to conservation efforts such as antler point restrictions and bag limits which ensure only mature bucks are harvested while allowing younger ones to reach maturity so future generations may continue enjoying this activity responsibly.
Archery Deer Season in New Jersey
| Season | Dates | Zones |
| Fall Bow | Sep 09 – Sep 29 | 7-15, 17, 36, 41, 49, 50, 51 |
| Fall Bow | Sep 09 – Sep 29 | 5, 6, 19, 25, 42, 48 |
| Fall Bow | Sep 09 – Sep 29 | 2, 16, 27-29, 35, 35, 47 |
| Fall Bow | Sep 30 – Oct 27 | 1, 3, 4, 18, 21-24, 26, 30, 34, 43, 45, 46, 55, 63, 65 |
| Youth Day | Sep 23 | All Zones |
| Permit Bow | Oct 28 – Dec 24, Dec 26 – Dec 31 | 2, 5-17, 19, 25-29, 31, 35, 36, 41, 42, 47-51 |
| Permit Bow | Oct 28 – Nov 26 | 1, 3, 4, 18, 22, 26, 30, 55, 63, 65 |
| Permit Bow | Oct 28 – Nov 18 | 21, 23, 24, 34, 43, 45, 46 |
| Winter Bow | Jan 01 – Feb 17 | 7-15, 17, 36, 41, 49-51 |
| Winter Bow | Jan 01 – Jan 31 | 1-6, 16, 18, 21-31, 42, 43, 45-48, 55, 63, 65 |
Firearm Deer Season New Jersey
| Season | Dates | Zones |
| Permit Muzzleloader (Antlerless Only) | Nov 20 – Nov 22, Dec 04 – Dec 09 | 10, 11, 13, 14, 15, 36, 49, 50, 51 |
| Permit Muzzleloader (Either Sex) | Nov 27 – Nov 28, Dec 11 – Dec 12, Dec 16 – Dec 23, Dec 26 – Dec 30, Jan 01 – Feb 10 | 10, 11, 13, 14, 15, 36, 49, 50, 51 |
| Permit Muzzleloader (Antlerless Only) | Dec 04 – Dec 09 | 7, 8, 9, 12, 17, 41 |
| Permit Muzzleloader (Either Sex) | Nov 27 – Nov 28, Dec 11 – Dec 12, Dec 16 – Dec 23, Dec 26 – Dec 30, Jan 01 – Feb 10 | 7, 8, 9, 12, 17, 41 |
| Permit Muzzleloader | Nov 27 – Nov 28, Dec 11 – Dec 12, Dec 16 – Dec 23, Dec 26 – Dec 30, Jan 01 – Jan 31 | 5, 19, 25, 42, 48 |
| Permit Muzzleloader | Nov 27 – Nov 28, Dec 11 – Dec 12, Dec 16 – Dec 23, Dec 26 – Dec 30, Jan 01 – Jan 05 | 2, 6, 16, 27-31, 35, 47, 55, 63, 65 |
| Permit Muzzleloader | Nov 27 – Nov 28, Dec 11 – Dec 12, Dec 16 – Dec 23, Dec 26 – Dec 30 | 1, 3, 4, 18, 22, 26 |
| Permit Muzzleloader | Nov 27 – Nov 28, Dec 16 – Dec 23, Dec 26 – Dec 30 | 21, 23, 24, 34, 43, 45, 46 |
| Permit Shotgun (Antlerless Only) | Nov 20 – Nov 22, Dec 04 – Dec 09 | 10, 11, 13-15, 36, 49-51 |
| Permit Shotgun (Either Sex) | Nov 20 – Nov 22, Dec 04 – Dec 09 | 10, 11, 13-15, 36, 49-51 |
| Permit Shotgun (Antlerless Only) | Dec 04 – Dec 09 | 7-9, 12, 17, 41 |
| Permit Shotgun (Either Sex) | Dec 13 – Dec 15, Jan 06 – Feb 10 | 7-9, 12, 17, 41 |
| Permit Shotgun | Dec 13 – Dec 15, Jan 06 – Jan 31 | 5, 19, 25, 42, 48 |
| Permit Shotgun | Dec 13 – Dec 15, Jan 13 – Jan 20 | 2, 16, 27-29, 31, 35, 47 |
| Permit Shotgun | Dec 13 – Dec 15 | 30, 55, 63, 65, 1, 3, 4, 6, 18, 21-24, 26, 34, 43, 45, 46 |
| Six-day Firearm | Dec 04 – Dec 09 | All Zones |
| Youth Day | Nov 18 | All Zones |
Bear
At an impressive 300-600 pounds, black bears are a formidable game animal. But with the right preparation and strategies, you can have a successful hunt in New Jersey.
Before heading out into the field, make sure to get all necessary permits and licenses from the State’s Division of Fish and Wildlife so that your safety is ensured as well as our wildlife’s future for generations to come.
Black bears usually inhabit dense vegetation like oak-hickory forests or swamps near water sources; they may also be found roaming around farmland at certain times of the year.
When it comes to hunting techniques, baiting is popular among many hunters like setting up bait stations with sweet treats such as doughnuts or honey near bear activity spots and then waiting patiently for that perfect shot.
Spot-and-stalk hunting is another great option which involves scouting them from afar before carefully stalking on foot for close-range shots – this technique requires finesse but can pay off big time while hunting in New Jersey!
Black Bear Season
| Season | Dates | Segment |
| Archery | Oct 09 – Oct 14 | Segment A |
| Archery/Muzzleloader | Oct 12 – Oct 14 | Segment A |
| Shotgun/Muzzleloader | Dec 04 – Dec 09 | Segment B |
| Shotgun/Muzzleloader | Dec 13 – Dec 16 | Segment B Extension |
Wild Turkey
Wild turkeys can be found in all 21 counties of New Jersey, with populations ranging from sparse to plentiful. They thrive in habitats like old-growth forests and grassy fields, making them prime targets for hunters during the spring and fall seasons.
When gearing up for a turkey hunt in New Jersey, make sure you have the necessary equipment: a 20 gauge or larger shotgun; camouflage clothing; a blind or tree stand (optional); and most importantly – your trusty turkey call.
Safety should always come first when hunting wild turkeys so ensure that you know precisely what you’re shooting at before pulling the trigger. Also, remember that these birds are protected by state law so double check regulations prior to setting out into nature’s playground.
The Spring season runs from April 17th through May 28th where only male gobblers may be hunted while Fall starts on October 28th until November 4th allowing both males and females to be pursued.
Turkey Season New Jersey
| Season | Dates | Bag Limit |
| Fall Turkey | Oct 28, Oct 30 – Nov 04 | 1 turkey per permit (either sex) |
| Youth Turkey | Apr 20 | 1 male turkey per permit |
| Spring Turkey (Period Y) | Apr 20 – May 12, May 23 – May 24 | 1 male turkey |
| Spring Turkey (Period A) | Apr 22 – Apr 26 | 1 male turkey |
| Spring Turkey (Period B) | Apr 29 – May 03 | 1 male turkey |
| Spring Turkey (Period C) | May 06 – May 10 | 1 male turkey |
| Spring Turkey (Period D) | May 13 – May 17, May 20 – May 24 | 1 male turkey |
| Spring Turkey (Period E) | Apr 27, May 04, May 11, May 18 | 1 male turkey |
Coyote
When it comes to planning your coyote hunt in New Jersey, there are a few essential pieces of gear you’ll need. First is the right firearm – whether that be a rifle or shotgun, make sure it has an appropriate caliber for taking down these predators.
Furthermore, decoys and calls can come in handy when trying to attract them out into the open. Finally don’t forget about camouflage clothing; this will help keep you hidden from their sharp eyes.
Coyotes are incredibly wily animals so successful hunting requires time and patience – they’re most active around dawn and dusk. It’s important to use calling techniques combined with decoys if you want any chance of catching one within shooting range.
These adaptable creatures inhabit almost all habitats throughout The Garden State – woodlands, wetlands, agricultural fields wherever food is available.
Coyote Season
| Season | Dates | Bag Limit |
| Regular Season (Bow) | Sep 30 – Nov 10 | No Limit |
| Regular Season (Bow/Shotgun) | Nov 11 – Mar 15 | No Limit |
| Special Permit Season (Bow/Rifle/Shotgun) | Jan 01 – Mar 15 | No Limit |
| Special Permit Season (Shotgun at night only) | Jan 01 – Mar 15 | No Limit |
Rabbit
Hunting rabbits in New Jersey is a popular pursuit due to its diverse habitats and abundance of cottontails. From wooded areas, meadows, and fields to farms or other open spaces, they have plenty of food and cover – making late fall to early winter the ideal time for hunting them.
Though these small animals are naturally shy, you must be patient and stealthy when pursuing them. Best done with a shotgun or rifle equipped with a scope for accuracy, rabbit hunting can be an exciting challenge if done right.
Rabbit Season in New Jersey
| Species | Dates | Bag Limit |
| Rabbit/Hare | Sep 30 – Feb 24 | 4 Cottontail: 1 Jackrabbit |
Fox
Searching for a fox can be tricky, but with the right tools and know-how, you’ll have no problem. For starters, you’ll need a good rifle or shotgun plus appropriate ammo to bag your quarry.
Also, it’s wise to bring some decoys and calls along that will help lure them in. To get the most out of your hunt, plan on visiting their natural habitat during early mornings or late evenings when they’re more active; windy days also work well as this will mask your scent from prying noses!
It goes without saying that if you’re new to hunting foxes, then having friends with experience is beneficial so don’t forget to invite them along too. Stay alert and use all five senses since these cunning creatures are masters at camouflage.
Fox Season
| Season | Dates | Bag Limit |
| Regular Season (Bow) | Sep 30 – Nov 10 | No Limit |
| Regular Season (Bow/Shotgun) | Nov 11 – Mar 15 | No Limit |
| Special Permit Season (Bow/Rifle/Shotgun) | Jan 01 – Mar 15 | No Limit |
| Special Permit Season (Shotgun at night only) | Jan 01 – Mar 15 | No Limit |
Squirrel Season
| Season | Dates | Bag Limit |
| Gray Squirrel (Muzzleloader) | Sep 30 – Nov 10, Jan 06 – Feb 24 | 5 per day |
| Gray Squirrel (Bow, Shotgun, Airgun) | Sep 30 – Feb 24 | 5 per day |
Raccoon Season
| Season | Dates | Bag Limit |
| Raccoon (Night Hunting) | Oct 02 – Mar 01 | No Limit |
Opossum Season
| Season | Dates | Bag Limit |
| Opossum (Night Hunting) | Oct 02 – Mar 01 | No Limit |
Striped Skunk Season
| Season | Dates | Bag Limit |
| Trapping only | Nov 15 – Mar 15 | No Limit |
Weasel Season
| Season | Dates | Bag Limit |
| Trapping only | Nov 15 – Mar 15 | No Limit |
Fisher Season
| Season | Dates | Bag Limit |
| Trapping only | Closed Season | Closed Season |
Bobcat Season
| Season | Dates | Bag Limit |
| Trapping only | Closed Season | Closed Season |
Nutria Season
| Season | Dates | Bag Limit |
| Trapping only | North Zone: Nov 15, South Zone: Dec 01 | No Limit |
Otter Season
| Season | Dates | Bag Limit |
| Trapping only | Dec 26 – Feb 09 | 3 traps per day |
Mink Season
| Season | Dates | Bag Limit |
| Trapping only | North Zone: Nov 15, South Zone: Dec 01 | No Limit |
Muskrat Season
| Season | Dates | Bag Limit |
| Trapping only | North Zone: Nov 15, South Zone: Dec 01 | No Limit |
Quail Season
| Season | Dates | Bag Limit |
| Bobwhite Quail | Nov 11 – Jan 31 | 4 |
| Quail (Semi-Wild Preserves) | Nov 11 – Mar 15 | No Limit |
| Quail (Commercial Shooting Preserves) | Sep 01 – May 01 | No Limit |
Woodchuck Season
| Season | Dates | Bag Limit |
| Bow/Shotgun | Mar 01 – Feb 24, Nov 11, Mar 01 – Feb 22, Nov 09 | No Limit |
| Muzzleloading Rifle | Mar 01 – Sep 27, Mar 01 – Sep 25 | No Limit |
Partridge Season
| Season | Dates | Bag Limit |
| Partridge | Nov 11 – Feb 19 | 7 |
| Partridge (Semi-Wild Preserves) | Nov 11 – Mar 15 | No Limit |
| Partridge (Commercial Shooting Preserves) | Sep 01 – May 01 | No Limit |
Pheasant Season
| Season | Dates | Bag Limit |
| General Pheasant Season | Nov 11 – Feb 19 | 2 |
| Youth Hunt | Nov 06 – Nov 10 | 2 |
| Pheasant (Semi-Wild Preserves) | Nov 11 – Mar 15 | No Limit |
| Pheasant (Commercial Shooting Preserves) | Sep 01 – May 01 | No Limit |
Crow Season
| Species | Dates | Bag Limit |
| Crow | Aug 14 – Dec 02, Dec 11 – Mar 16 | No Limit |
Duck Season
| Season | Dates | Bag Limit |
| North Zone | Oct 14 – Oct 21, Nov 11 – Jan 11 | 6 per day |
| South Zone | Oct 21 – Oct 28, Nov 18 – Jan 18 | 6 per day |
| Coastal Zone | Nov 09 – Nov 11, Nov 23 – Jan 27 | 6 per day |
Sea Duck Season
| Season | Dates | Bag Limit |
| North Zone | Oct 14 – Oct 21, Nov 11 – Jan 11 | 4 per day |
| South Zone | Oct 21 – Oct 28, Nov 18 – Jan 18 | 4 per day |
| Coastal Zone | Nov 09 – Nov 11, Nov 23 – Jan 27 | 4 per day |
Coot Season
| Season | Dates | Bag Limit |
| North Zone | Oct 14 – Oct 21, Nov 11 – Jan 11 | 15 per day |
| South Zone | Oct 21 – Oct 28, Nov 18 – Jan 18 | 15 per day |
| Coastal Zone | Nov 09 – Nov 11, Nov 23 – Jan 27 | 15 per day |
Merganser Season
| Season | Dates | Bag Limit |
| North Zone | Oct 14 – Oct 21, Nov 11 – Jan 11 | 5 per day |
| South Zone | Oct 21 – Oct 28, Nov 18 – Jan 18 | 5 per day |
| Coastal Zone | Nov 09 – Nov 11, Nov 23 – Jan 27 | 5 per day |
Brant Season
| Season | Dates | Bag Limit |
| North Zone | Nov 11 – Nov 25, Dec 23 – Jan 11 | 5 per day |
| South Zone | Oct 21 – Oct 28, Nov 18 – Dec 14 | 5 per day |
| Coastal Zone | Nov 23 – Dec 02, Dec 14 – Jan 06 | 5 per day |
Scaup Season
| Season | Dates | Bag Limit |
| North Zone | Oct 14 – Oct 21, Nov 11 – Dec 19, Dec 20 – Jan 11 | 2 per day |
| South Zone | Oct 21 – Oct 28, Nov 18 – Dec 26, Dec 27 – Jan 28 | 2 per day |
| Coastal Zone | Nov 09 – Nov 11, Nov 23 – Jan 04, Jan 05 – Jan 27 | 2 per day |
Goose Season
| Season | Dates | Bag Limit |
| Canada Geese North Zone | Nov 18 – Nov 25, Dec 16 – Jan 29 | 3 per day |
| Canada Geese South Zone | Nov 18 – Nov 25, Dec 16 – Jan 29 | 3 per day |
| Canada Geese Coastal Zone | Nov 09 – Nov 11, Nov 23 – Jan 27 | 3 per day |
| Canada Geese September Season | Sep 01 – Sep 30 | 15 per day |
| Light Geese Season | Oct 17 – Feb 15 | 25 per day |
| Light Geese Conservation Order | Feb 16 – Apr 06 | No Limit |
| Canada Geese (Special Winter Season Zones) | Jan 30 – Feb 15 | 5 per day |
Youth Waterfowl Season
| Season | Dates |
| North Zone | Oct 07 |
| South Zone | Oct 14 |
| Coastal Zone | Oct 28 |
Snipe Season
| Species | Dates | Bag Limit |
| Snipe | Sep 09 – Jan 11 | 8 per day |
Gallinule Season
| Species | Dates | Bag Limit |
| Gallinule | Sep 01 – Nov 21 | 1 per day |
Rail Season
| Species | Dates | Bag Limit |
| Sora, Clapper & Virginia Rail | Sep 01 – Nov 21 | 25 |
| King Rail | Closed Season | Closed Season |
Dove Season
| Species | Dates | Bag Limit |
| Dove | Closed Season | Closed Season |
Swan Season
| Species | Dates | Bag Limit |
| Swan | Closed Season | Closed Season |
Sandhill Crane Season
| Species | Dates | Bag Limit |
| Sandhill Crane | Closed Season | Closed Season |
Woodcock Season
| Season | Dates | Bag Limit |
| North Zone | Oct 14 – Oct 28, Oct 31 – Nov 25 | 3 |
| South Zone | Nov 11 – Dec 02, Dec 14 – Jan 02 | 3 |
New Jersey Hunting License Information
At 16 years old, if you want to hunt in New Jersey, you’ll need a valid hunting license. That applies to residents and non-residents alike with exceptions being made only for certain games such as coyotes, crows, and furbearers.
To get your license sorted out, there are two main types; the Resident Hunting License which is available to anyone who has been living in NJ for at least 6 months prior, or the Non-Resident Hunting License otherwise known as a visitor’s permit.
On top of this depending on what type of game you’re after, there are more specific licenses like deer, turkey, waterfowl, etc., that can be purchased either individually or combined into one all-inclusive package deal.
Getting set up is easy too. You can get yours online via the NJ Division of Fish & Wildlife website or head down to a local licensed agent such as sporting goods stores/bait shops etc.
But before any purchase takes place, it’s important to remember that you must complete Hunter Education Courses first regardless if it’s your first time buying a hunting license here in New Jersey.
A resident firearm license costs $28 while a resident bow and arrow license costs $32 in New Jersey.
Where Can You Hunt in New Jersey?
The New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife manages an impressive 750,000 acres across state forests, wildlife management areas, and county parks for recreational activities such as hunting. There’s a variety of game animals available including deer, bear, small game & waterfowl – just make sure to check regulations for each location before you head out.
For those who desire a more exclusive hunting adventure, New Jersey offers plenty of leased or privately held land. Many farmers and landowners allow licensed hunters to hunt on their property with permission – some even organize guided hunts. You can find these opportunities through local hunting clubs or by networking with other hunters in the area.
Public Hunting Places in New Jersey
Cape May National Wildlife Refuge
Located in the southernmost part of New Jersey lies Cape May National Wildlife Refuge: a sprawling 21,000-acre paradise encompassing salt marshes, freshwater ponds, and upland forests. These diverse habitats provide a prime home for wildlife like deer, waterfowl, and birds.
If you’re looking for hunting in New Jersey, there are plenty of opportunities here. Waterfowl hunters can explore over 5,000 acres of tidal wetlands where they’ll find all sorts of ducks, geese, and swans lurking about.
Meanwhile, white-tailed deer seekers have designated areas throughout the refuge to practice their skills during the open season. And last but not least is bird hunting where pheasants quail and more await in grasslands thickets – ready for flushing out with every step.
Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge
Situated in southern New Jersey, Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge is a haven for wildlife and hunters alike with 47,000 acres of protected land offering diverse habitats like salt marshes, tidal creeks, woodlands, and grasslands.
The refuge provides an array of hunting experiences; the most popular being waterfowl due to its prime location on the Atlantic Flyway. Hunters can set up blinds and decoys in designated areas for an unforgettable waterfowl hunt experience.
For those interested in upland game hunting – pheasant or rabbit – this refuge has an ideal habitat that supports their populations year round with proper permits and licenses from local authorities required before entering these areas.
But hunting here isn’t all about the thrill: it’s also about responsible stewardship as regulations are strictly followed to ensure sustainable populations of game species while protecting non-game species too.
Wallkill River National Wildlife Refuge
Situated in the northern corner of New Jersey and the southern tip of New York, Wallkill River National Wildlife Refuge offers a bounty of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts.
Spanning over 5,000 acres, this lush landscape is home to an abundance of game species that attract hunters from near and far. White-tailed deer are particularly popular here thanks to their dense population and ample food sources but you can also find turkey, waterfowls, and small game like rabbits and squirrels!
Hunting isn’t all there is to do at the refuge; it’s about connecting with nature as well. As you make your way through untouched forests or along tranquil riverside trails, keep your eyes peeled for other wildlife such as bald eagles soaring overhead or beavers building dams by riverbanks. And if luck has it, maybe even catch a glimpse at some black bears lumbering around.
Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge
The Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, situated in Morris County of New Jersey, is a sprawling 7,700 acres of diverse habitats. From woodland to wetlands and grasslands – the refuge provides an ideal environment for many game species making it a hotspot for hunters.
White-tailed deer are one such popular game species with an estimated population of over 1,500 offering plenty of opportunities to bag their trophy buck or doe. The refuge also holds managed hunts for deer management purposes which ensures a healthy balance within its ecosystem.
Other than white-tailed deer – turkey and waterfowl as well as small games like rabbits and squirrels can be hunted too; making it the perfect place for both newbie and experienced hunters alike!
It’s important to remember all rules set by the wildlife refuge while hunting including obtaining necessary permits/licenses beforehand. Moreover practicing ethical hunting practices like proper waste disposal and respecting other visitors should always be kept in mind during your hunting in The Garden State.
Supawna Meadows National Wildlife Refuge
Supawna Meadows National Wildlife Refuge, situated in Pennsville, New Jersey is a sanctuary for various species of wildlife. Spanning over 3,000 acres and part of the Delaware River Estuary, this refuge serves as more than just a habitat for migratory birds – it also houses white-tailed deer, muskrats, foxes, and plenty of fish too.
Hunting activities are allowed but strictly regulated by the U.S Fish & Wildlife Service to protect and conserve wildlife within the refuge; thus hunting seasons have been predetermined so you’ll know when it’s okay to hunt.
Private Hunting Places in New Jersey
Private hunting lands in New Jersey are not open to the public. These exclusive properties provide access only to individuals or groups for hunting purposes. In order to hunt on these lands, you must first obtain a valid hunting license and any other permits required by the state.
Additionally, it is vital that hunters familiarize themselves with property boundaries; most private grounds will have signs indicating where you can hunt and where you cannot go.
As guests on another’s land, you must treat the property with respect – following designated trails, refraining from littering, and leaving no trace of our presence behind you when you depart.
When sharing spaces with other hunters during your stay at a private location, courtesy should always be observed: communicate respectfully while adhering strictly to safety protocols at all times.
