Plan your Vermont hunting season with confidence using our Ultimate 2025 Guide. Get updated season dates, species info, rules, license tips, and expert advice for a successful hunt.
Vermont, known for its stunning forests and rich wildlife, continues to be a favorite destination for hunters in the Northeast. Whether you’re chasing whitetail deer in the rolling Green Mountains or tracking wild turkeys through quiet woodlands, the state offers a variety of seasons, species, and settings that appeal to both new and experienced hunters.
This 2025 guide breaks down everything you need to know to plan your hunt — from season dates to bag limits and where to hunt. In this first part, we’ll cover why Vermont is such a hunting-friendly state, key species to hunt, land access, and major season timelines.
Why Hunt in Vermont?
Vermont has a long-standing tradition of hunting that stretches back before the state was even founded. Hunting here is not only about recreation — it’s a way of life. Generations pass down the “field-to-freezer” approach, where ethically sourced, wild game meat plays a central role in feeding families.
Vermont also has unique laws that favor hunters: all private land is considered open to hunting unless posted otherwise. Still, it’s courteous to ask landowner permission. Combined with over 800,000 acres of public land, including state forests, national wildlife refuges, and state parks, it’s easy to find space to hunt.
Game Species Available for Hunting
Whether you prefer big game, small game, or waterfowl, Vermont has something for everyone. Key species include:
- White-tailed Deer
- Black Bear
- Wild Turkey
- Moose (permit-only)
- Small Game (rabbit, hare, squirrel, grouse)
- Waterfowl (ducks, geese, woodcock, coots)
These species offer a nearly year-round hunting opportunity. The state’s diversity of wildlife and seasonal access makes Vermont one of the most dynamic hunting locations in New England.
Overview of Major Hunting Seasons (2025)
Here are some of the primary dates to plan your calendar around:
Whitetail Deer:
- Youth & Novice Weekend: October 25–26
- Archery Season: October 1 – November 14 and December 1–15
- Muzzleloader (Antlerless in select zones): October 30 – November 2
- Regular Rifle Season: November 15 – 30
- Muzzleloader Season: December 6 – 14
Turkey:
- Spring Season: May 1 – 31
- Fall Archery (Statewide): October 4 – 24
- Fall Shotgun/Archery: October 25 – November 2 (varies by WMU)
Black Bear:
- Early Season: September 1 – November 14
- Late Season: November 15 – 23
- With Dogs (Permit Required): Sept 1 – Nov 23 (residents), Sept 15 – Nov 23 (nonresidents)
Moose (by permit only):
- Archery: October 1 – 7 (if drawn)
- Regular Season: October 18 – 23 (if drawn)
Small Game and Waterfowl Seasons
Vermont offers plenty of small game and migratory bird options to keep hunters busy throughout the fall and winter months.
Small Game:
- Gray Squirrel: September 1 – December 31
- Snowshoe Hare: October 26 – December 31 and January 1 – March 16 (north zone)
- Cottontail Rabbit: October 26 – December 31 and January 1 – March 16 (south zone)
- Ruffed Grouse: September 28 – December 31
Migratory Birds:
- Ducks, Geese, Coots: Split seasons by zone — typically late September through early December. Follow U.S. Fish and Wildlife frameworks and check Vermont’s Migratory Bird Guide for zone-specific details.
- Woodcock: October 1 – November 14 (daily bag limit: 3)
Bag Limits (Per Day / Possession unless noted)
Here are some of the general bag limits for popular species in 2025:
- Whitetail Deer: One legal buck per year (second antlerless with bonus tag or muzzleloader permit)
- Black Bear: One bear per year (must be reported; baiting and hounds by permit only)
- Wild Turkey: Two legal bearded birds in spring; one of either sex in fall (varies by WMU)
- Gray Squirrel: 4 / 8
- Ruffed Grouse: 4 / 8
- Snowshoe Hare & Rabbit: 3 / 6
- Ducks (General): 6 per day; possession varies by species
- Canada Geese: 5 per day; subject to season-specific rules
Always confirm bag limits in the official Vermont Hunting Guide for 2025 before hunting.
Licensing & Hunter Education
To legally hunt in Vermont, you’ll need the following:
- Resident/Non-Resident Hunting License (Annual or short-term options)
- Additional Permits for turkey, bear, archery, and muzzleloader seasons
- Hunter Education Certification is required for first-time license buyers
- Youth Licenses are available at a discounted rate and allow supervised hunting
Licenses can be purchased online at vtfishandwildlife.com or from authorized agents.
Hunter Safety & Preparation Tips
Success in the field often comes down to preparation. Here are a few must-know tips:
- Scout Early: Use apps or maps to study terrain and locate animal sign.
- Layer Up: Vermont’s weather changes quickly. Wear moisture-wicking base layers and waterproof outer gear.
- Zero Your Gear: Practice shooting and make sure scopes or sights are dialed in.
- Be Legal: Tag game immediately and report your harvest as required.
- Respect the Land: Always follow Leave No Trace principles and get permission where needed.
Final Thoughts
Hunting in Vermont in 2025 promises another exciting year full of opportunities for everyone — from small game beginners to seasoned deer hunters. With its generous land access, wide range of game species, and a strong culture of ethical hunting, Vermont remains one of the Northeast’s top destinations.
Make sure to follow regulations, prepare well, and enjoy every moment in the woods. Safe and successful hunting!