Connecticut Hunting

Connecticut may be one of the smallest states in the US in terms of landmass, but it offers a wide array of hunting opportunities for enthusiasts. While the state boasts various small game species, the most abundant big games that hunters can pursue are Turkeys and Deer. However, it’s important to note that hunting bears is strictly prohibited in Connecticut, and they are reserved only for recreational sightseeing.

Connecticut Hunting Regulations

To ensure a safe and sustainable hunting experience, hunters in Connecticut must comply with all federal, state, and local hunting laws and regulations. Additionally, there may be specific regulations imposed by municipalities and private landowners.

Firearm Hunting Regulations

When it comes to the possession and use of firearms for hunting, Connecticut has specific regulations in place.

500 Foot Regulation

It is unlawful to possess a loaded firearm, hunt wildlife, or discharge a firearm within 500 feet of buildings containing humans, domestic animals, or buildings used to store combustible substances and materials. However, you can obtain permission from the owner or their families/spouses to make an exception. This regulation does not apply to archery hunting.

Possession of Hunting Firearms in Vehicles

Connecticut strictly prohibits the possession of loaded firearms in vehicles, regardless of whether they are hunting firearms or not. Only registered handguns and revolvers are allowed to be carried in vehicles under state gun laws.

Use of Rifles and Handguns for Hunting

Connecticut does not permit the use of rifles, revolvers, and handguns that operate with a .22 or larger ammunition for hunting. Additionally, in areas leased for hunting by the state or areas requiring hunting permits, all types of rifles and handguns are prohibited. Using handguns and rifles to hunt waterfowls, turkey, and migratory birds in the state is also illegal, except for crows.

Hunting with Shotguns

Shotguns that fire more than two shots are not allowed for hunting on state-owned or leased lands or private lands. The use of lead shot for waterfowl hunting is also prohibited. However, you can use shotguns with less than 10 gauge for hunting waterfowls and other migratory bird species. For turkey, crow, and deer hunting in Connecticut, shotguns must have a maximum of 3 shells (2 in the magazine and 1 in the chamber). Unplugged shotguns are allowed during the goose season in September, subject to additional regulations depending on the hunting location.

Hunting with Muzzle Loaders

Muzzleloaders are legal for hunting in Connecticut and can be either shotguns or rifles with a minimum of .45 calibers. The use of smoothbore muzzleloaders, like shotguns, is prohibited. However, you can use muzzleloading rifles with approximately .36 calibers and round ball ammunition on state-owned lands.

Bow Hunting Regulations

Bow hunting is a popular form of hunting in Connecticut, and the state has specific regulations governing its practice.

Bowhunter Education

Before hunting with a bow and arrow, hunters in Connecticut must complete a bowhunter education course, especially for hunting small game.

Lawful Bow and Arrows

Not all types of bows and arrows are acceptable for hunting in Connecticut. For turkey and deer hunting, the bow must be long, possess compound bows, recurved, and have a minimum draw weight of 40 pounds. Mechanical strings are permitted, but coating projectiles with chemicals, poison, or drugs is strictly prohibited.

Crossbows

Crossbows are legal for hunting various games in Connecticut, provided they have a draw weight of at least 125 pounds and a permanently fixed rifle with an efficient automated safety device. The use of adjustable crossbow stocks is permitted, but folding stocks are not allowed. The arrow used should be at least 18 inches long, excluding the broadhead length. For deer and turkey hunting, the arrowhead should have a minimum of two blades and be no more than 8 inches wide.

Bag Limit Regulation

Bag limits refer to the number of game species a hunter can legally take within a specific time frame. Connecticut has different bag limits for various games and seasons to ensure sustainable hunting practices.

Daily Bag Limit

The daily bag limit specifies the maximum number of game species a hunter can take in a single day, typically within the hours between 12 am and 12 am the next day. It is essential for hunters to adhere to this limit to preserve wildlife populations.

Possession in Storage

The possession in storage limit sets a maximum amount of non-migratory wildlife and game species that hunters can store for a specific game during the entire season. Exceeding this limit is a violation of bag limit regulations. For migratory games such as snipe, waterfowls, and coots, the possession in storage limit is governed by federal hunting laws.

Season Bag Limit

The season bag limit restricts the number of wildlife and games that hunters can take during the open season. Abiding by this limit ensures responsible and ethical hunting practices.

Hunter Harassment Law

To safeguard hunting activities in the state, Connecticut has hunter harassment laws in place. These laws prohibit individuals from interfering with legal hunting practices in wildlife areas or any other locations within the state.

The law prohibits actions such as:

Driving wildlife to disrupt hunting activities.
Preventing hunting by impeding or harassing hunters.
Using artificial or olfactory stimuli to disturb wildlife behavior.
Creating barriers to impede or limit hunting activities.
Entering a hunter’s line of fire while attempting to shoot down a game.
Disturbing publicly or privately owned hunting properties without permission.

Connecticut Hunting License Permits and Tags

Before embarking on any hunting activities, hunters in Connecticut must obtain the appropriate licenses or permits. The state offers various hunting licenses for residents and non-residents, catering to different interests and preferences.

Firearms Hunting License

This is a general hunting permit that allows both residents and non-residents to engage in firearm hunting. The cost of the license varies, with adult residents paying $19, teenage residents paying $10, and non-residents paying $91.

Firearms Hunting and Inland Fishing License

This license permits both hunting and inland fishing in Connecticut. It is available to residents and non-residents, with prices set at $38 for adult residents, $19 for teenage residents, and $110 for non-residents.

Firearms Hunting and All Waters Fishing License

Holders of this license can enjoy both firearm hunting and fishing in all water bodies within Connecticut. The license is available to residents and non-residents, priced at $40 for adult residents, $20 for teenage residents (16 and 17 years), and $120 for non-residents.

Firearms Hunting and Marine Water Fishing License

This license is valid for the combination of firearm hunting and marine water fishing in Connecticut. It is available for both residents and non-residents, with prices set at $25 for adult residents, $13 for teenage residents (16 and 17 years), and $94 for non-residents.

Archery Deer and Small Game Hunting License

This license permits the hunting of deer with archery equipment and allows for the pursuit of small game species in Connecticut. It is available to residents and non-residents, with prices set at $41 for adult residents, $21 for teenage residents (16 and 17 years), and $135 for non-residents.

Archery Deer and Small Game Hunting License Plus All Water Fishing License

This license combines the hunting of deer and small games with fishing in all water bodies within the state. It costs $65 for adult residents and $33 for teenage residents (16 and 17 years).

Trapping License

This license allows hunters to set traps or bait wildlife and games in Connecticut. It costs $34 for adult residents, $17 for teenage residents (16 and 17 years), and $250 for non-residents.

Licenses Based on Age

Connecticut also issues hunting licenses based on age, including:

Junior Firearm Hunting License

This license is issued to residents and non-residents of Connecticut between the ages of 12 and 15. The cost is $11 for both residents and non-residents.

Junior Archery Deer and Small Game License

This license allows residents and non-residents between the ages of 12 and 15 to hunt deer and small game in Connecticut. The price is $10 for residents and $19 for non-residents.

Junior Trapping License

This license is only valid for residents of Connecticut under the age of 15. It costs $11.

Annual Hunting License

This hunting license is available free of charge to residents of Connecticut who are 65 years old or older.

Annual Trapping License

This trapping license is also free of charge and available to residents of Connecticut who are 65 years old or older.

Connecticut Fishing License Permits and Tags

For anglers, Connecticut offers various fishing licenses that allow them to fish in both inland and marine waters.

Resident All Water Fishing License

This license permits fishing in both inland and marine waters and is available only to residents. The cost is $32 for adult residents and $16 for teenagers.

Residents Inland Fishing License

This license allows fishing only in inland waters. It costs $28 for adult residents and $14 for teenagers.

Residents Inland Fishing and Small Game Hunting

Holders of this license can fish in inland waters and hunt small game in Connecticut. It costs $38 for adult residents and $19 for teenage residents.

Residents All Water Fishing Bow and Arrow Permit Plus Small Games and Deer Hunting

This comprehensive license allows fishing in all waters and archery hunting of deer and small game animals. It costs $65 for adult residents and $32 for teenage residents.

Non-Residents Season Inland Fishing License

This license is issued to non-residents who wish to fish in inland waters. It costs $55.

Non-Residents Season All Waters Fishing License

Non-residents can obtain this license, which permits fishing in both inland and marine waters. The cost is $63.

Non-Residents 3 Days Inland Fishing License

This short-term license is available for non-residents who want to fish in inland waters for just three days. It costs $22.

Residents Marine Water Fishing License

Holders of this license can fish in marine waters. It costs $10 for adult residents and $5 for teenage residents.

Residents One Day Marine Water Fishing

This license allows residents to fish in marine water for one day. It costs $5 for adult residents and $3 for non-residents.

Residents Marine Water Fishing and Firearm Hunting

This license permits the combination of fishing in marine water and hunting during firearm season. It costs $25 for adult residents and $13 for teenage residents.

Non-Residents Marine Fishing License

Non-residents can obtain this license for fishing in marine waters in Connecticut. It costs $15.

Non-Residents Marine Water Fishing and Firearms Hunting License

This license permits non-residents to fish in marine waters and hunt with firearms. It costs $94.

Non-Residents Three Days Marine Fishing License

This short-term license is available for non-residents to fish in marine waters for three days. It costs $8.

Armed Forces Marine Water Fishing License

Members of the US military or National Guard can obtain this special license for fishing in marine waters in Connecticut. It costs $10.

Armed Forces Inland Fishing Permit

This special license is issued to members of the US military or National Guard for fishing in inland waters in Connecticut. It costs $28.

Armed Forces Inland Fishing Permit with Small Game Firearms Hunting

This license allows members of the US armed forces to fish in inland waters and hunt small game species in Connecticut.

Armed Forces All Water Permit

This permit grants members of the Armed Forces permission to fish in all water bodies in Connecticut.

Connecticut Hunting Season 2022/2023

Connecticut enjoys favorable weather conditions for hunting, and the 2020/21 hunting season offers various opportunities to engage in this popular outdoor activity.

Connecticut Deer Hunting Season

Archery Season: September 15th to December 31st
Shotgun and Rifle Season (Public Land): November 18th to December 8th
Shotgun and Rifle Season (Private Land): November 2nd to December 31st
Muzzleloader Season (Private Land): December 9th to December 31st
Muzzleloader Season (State Lands): December 9th to December 22nd

Connecticut Turkey Hunting Season

Fall Archery Season: September 15th to September 31st
Fall Firearm Season: October 3rd to October 31st

Connecticut Small Games Hunting Season

Cotton Rabbit Season: October 19th to December 31st
Squirrel Season: September 1st to December 31st
Woodchuck Season: March 16th to November 16th
Chukar Partridge Season: October 17th to December 31st
Quail Season: October 17th to November 2nd
Pheasant Season: October 17th to December 31st
Grouse Season: October 17th to December 30th

Connecticut Wildlife Game and Fish

Connecticut’s diverse habitats offer a range of wildlife and game species for hunters to pursue.

Connecticut Deer Hunting

Whitetail deer hunting is popular in Connecticut, not only for sport but also for the delicious venison they provide.

Connecticut Turkey Hunting

Turkey hunting is an exciting challenge in the state, with these elusive birds blending seamlessly into their surroundings.

Connecticut Duck Hunting

Duck hunting offers lively outdoor experiences in Connecticut, with fast and agile waterfowl presenting an enjoyable challenge for hunters.

Connecticut Goose Hunting

Connecticut is a favored destination for goose hunters, with species like Snow geese, Blue geese, and Canada geese abundant in the state.

Connecticut Pheasant Hunting

Pheasants are abundant in Connecticut, inhabiting meadows, wooded areas, and fields. They provide challenging hunting opportunities.

Connecticut Quail Hunting

Quail hunting is a cherished sport in Connecticut, with these small game birds inhabiting fields and farming settlements.

Connecticut Grouse Hunting

Grouse hunting presents a challenge due to the bird’s ability to blend into its surroundings. They are common in farming lands, wooded areas, meadows, and fields.

Connecticut Shooting Ranges

Connecticut provides several shooting ranges for the public to practice and enjoy shooting sports.

Some of the popular shooting ranges include:

Wooster Mountain State Park Cooperative Shooting Range
High Rock Cooperative Shooting Range
Glastonbury Public Shooting Range
Nye Holman Field Archery Range

Connecticut Hunting Land for Sale and Lease

For hunters looking to invest in hunting land, Connecticut offers various options for sale and lease.

Some available hunting lands include:

Winchester Town, CT 06098. Litchfield County, 434 acres.
Killingly Town, CT 06241. Windham County, 645 acres.
Ashford, CT 06278. Windham County, 3 acres.
Woodstock, CT 06281. Windham County, 13.6 acres.

Conclusion

Connecticut provides a wealth of hunting opportunities for enthusiasts, with its diverse wildlife, well-regulated hunting seasons, and numerous shooting ranges. Hunters must comply with the state’s hunting regulations, obtain the appropriate licenses, and respect bag limit regulations to ensure the sustainability of the state’s wildlife populations.

For both residents and non-residents, Connecticut offers an array of hunting and fishing licenses, catering to various interests and preferences. Whether it’s deer, turkey, waterfowl, or small game hunting, Connecticut provides a rich and enjoyable hunting experience for all.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a hunting license to hunt in Connecticut?

Yes, all hunters, both residents, and non-residents, need a hunting license to hunt in Connecticut. There are various types of licenses available, depending on the type of hunting and fishing activities you wish to engage in.

What are the hunting seasons in Connecticut?

The hunting seasons in Connecticut vary depending on the species being hunted. Some of the popular hunting seasons include deer hunting (archery, shotgun, and muzzleloader seasons), turkey hunting, and small game hunting (rabbits, squirrels, etc.). Make sure to check the specific dates and regulations for each season.

Can I use a rifle or handgun for hunting in Connecticut?

Connecticut does not permit the use of rifles, revolvers, and handguns that operate with a .22 or larger ammunition for hunting. Shotguns and muzzleloaders are the primary firearms allowed for hunting in the state, with specific regulations for each.

Are there restrictions on the possession of firearms while hunting?

Yes, Connecticut prohibits the possession of loaded firearms in vehicles, regardless of whether they are hunting firearms or not. Only those with registered handguns and revolvers are allowed to possess them in vehicles. Hunters should comply with these regulations to ensure their safety and legal compliance.

Can I hunt waterfowl with lead shot in Connecticut?

No, it is illegal to use lead shot for waterfowl hunting in Connecticut. Hunters must use non-toxic shot for waterfowl hunting, which is better for the environment and prevents lead contamination in water bodies.