Hunters from outside New Hampshire seeking to experience the state’s diverse game and scenic landscapes can obtain a non-resident hunting license. These licenses allow out-of-state hunters to pursue various game species in the Granite State’s forests and fields. Non-resident hunting licenses in New Hampshire cost $103 for a standard hunting license, which includes the mandatory $2.50 Wildlife Habitat Fee.
The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department offers several options for non-resident hunters. In addition to the standard hunting license, there’s a 3-day small game license available for $25. This shorter-term option provides flexibility for weekend trips or brief hunting excursions. Non-resident hunters must also purchase any required species-specific permits or tags separately.
Obtaining a New Hampshire non-resident hunting license is straightforward. Hunters can purchase licenses online through the state’s official website, at authorized license agents throughout New Hampshire, or directly from the Fish and Game Department in Concord. It’s important for non-resident hunters to familiarize themselves with New Hampshire’s hunting regulations and seasons before their trip.
Eligibility Criteria for Non-Residents
Non-resident hunters seeking a New Hampshire hunting license must meet specific requirements. These criteria ensure proper training, age compliance, and verification of non-resident status.
Age Requirements
New Hampshire allows hunters of all ages to obtain non-resident licenses. Adults 18 and older can apply for standard hunting licenses. Minors under 16 do not need a general hunting license but must purchase special licenses for specific game like deer, turkey, and bear.
Youth aged 16-17 can acquire licenses at reduced rates. All minors must be accompanied by a licensed adult hunter while in the field.
Hunter Education Certification
Non-residents must provide proof of completed hunter education to obtain a New Hampshire hunting license. The state accepts certifications from other states and provinces.
Online courses are available, but a field day component is typically required. Some exemptions exist for experienced hunters born before 1948.
First-time hunters can participate in the apprentice hunting program, allowing them to hunt under supervision without completing hunter education.
Residency Verification
Non-residents must prove their out-of-state status when applying for a New Hampshire hunting license. A valid driver’s license or state-issued ID from another state serves as primary proof of residency.
Applicants may need to provide additional documentation, such as utility bills or tax records, if their residency status is unclear.
Military personnel stationed in New Hampshire can choose between resident or non-resident licenses, depending on their home of record.
Non-resident college students attending school in New Hampshire qualify for special licensing options.
Types of Non-Resident Licenses
New Hampshire offers several types of non-resident hunting licenses to accommodate different preferences and seasons. These licenses allow out-of-state hunters to enjoy the state’s diverse wildlife and hunting opportunities.
Regular Hunting License
The Regular Non-Resident Hunting License is the most common option for out-of-state hunters. It permits hunting of various game species during their respective seasons.
This license covers small game, big game (excluding deer), and waterfowl hunting. Hunters must purchase additional stamps for waterfowl and bear hunting.
The license is valid for the calendar year and can be purchased online or at authorized retailers. Non-resident hunters must carry their license at all times while hunting.
Special Archery Deer Permit
Non-resident bow hunters can obtain a Special Archery Deer Permit to hunt deer during the designated archery season.
This permit is required in addition to the regular hunting license. It allows hunters to use archery equipment to pursue deer in specified areas.
The archery season typically runs from September to December. Hunters must follow specific regulations regarding equipment and hunting methods.
Non-residents can purchase this permit online or through licensed agents. It’s important to review current regulations as seasons and bag limits may change annually.
Muzzleloader Season Licenses
New Hampshire offers a separate muzzleloader season for deer hunting, requiring a specific license for non-residents.
This license allows hunters to use muzzleloading firearms during the designated season, usually in late fall or early winter. Non-resident minors under 16 must also purchase this license.
Muzzleloader hunters must adhere to strict regulations regarding firearm type, powder, and projectiles. Safety courses may be required for first-time muzzleloader hunters.
The muzzleloader season provides a unique hunting experience and often occurs when deer are more active.
Turkey License
Non-resident hunters pursuing wild turkeys in New Hampshire must obtain a specific Turkey License.
This license covers both the spring and fall turkey seasons. Hunters are typically allowed one bird per season, but bag limits can vary.
Spring turkey hunting focuses on bearded birds, while fall seasons may allow either sex. Specific regulations apply to hunting methods, calls, and decoys.
Non-resident turkey hunters should familiarize themselves with New Hampshire’s turkey management units and season dates. Youth hunters may have special opportunities or reduced fees for turkey hunting.
Licensing Procedure
Non-resident hunters can obtain New Hampshire hunting licenses through a streamlined process. The NH Fish and Game Department offers multiple options for license acquisition, tag issuance, and fee payment.
License Application Process
Non-residents can apply for hunting licenses through HuntNH.com, the state’s official online licensing system. The mobile-friendly website allows hunters to purchase licenses using smartphones or computers. Applicants must provide personal information, including name, address, and date of birth. A valid form of identification, such as a driver’s license, is required.
Alternatively, licenses can be obtained in person at authorized license agents throughout New Hampshire. These locations include sporting goods stores and town clerk offices. The NH Fish and Game Department headquarters in Concord also issues licenses directly to applicants.
Tag and Permit Issuance
Upon successful application, hunters receive their licenses and any associated tags or permits. For online purchases, licenses can be printed immediately or saved as digital copies on smart phones. Physical tags for deer and turkey are mailed to the hunter’s address.
Hunters must carry their licenses at all times while in the field. Tags should be attached to harvested game as required by state regulations. Turkey registration can be completed online or at designated check stations.
Transaction Fees and Payment
License fees vary based on the type of hunting license and additional permits requested. Non-resident hunting licenses typically cost more than resident licenses. The NH Fish and Game Department accepts major credit cards for online transactions.
A small transaction fee is added to each online purchase to cover processing costs. This fee is clearly displayed before finalizing the transaction. In-person purchases at license agents may have different payment options and fee structures.
Hunters should review current pricing on the official NH Fish and Game website before making a purchase. Fees are subject to change and may be updated annually.
Hunting Regulations and Seasons
New Hampshire’s hunting regulations and seasons vary by species and method of take. Hunters must adhere to specific dates, bag limits, and rules for each game animal.
Deer Hunting Regulations
Deer hunting in New Hampshire follows a structured season calendar. The archery season typically runs from September to December. Muzzleloader season occurs in late October or early November. Regular firearm season starts in November and lasts about three weeks.
Hunters are limited to one antlered deer per year. Additional antlerless deer may be taken with special permits in specific Wildlife Management Units. All hunters must wear 400 square inches of blaze orange during the regular firearm season.
Baiting for deer is allowed during specific periods. Hunters must obtain landowner permission and follow strict guidelines for bait site setup and maintenance.
Waterfowl and Migratory Bird Seasons
Waterfowl hunting seasons in New Hampshire align with federal frameworks. Duck season is split into two parts, typically running from October to January. Goose seasons vary by species and zone.
Hunters must possess a valid hunting license, state waterfowl license, and Federal Duck Stamp. Daily bag limits are set annually based on population assessments.
New for 2025, veterans and active military personnel have an exclusive waterfowl hunting weekend. Specific dates and regulations for this special opportunity are outlined in the current Waterfowl/Migratory Bird Hunting Regulations.
Bear and Moose Hunting
Bear hunting season in New Hampshire generally runs from September to November. Methods include still hunting, baiting, and hunting with dogs. Each hunter is limited to one bear per calendar year.
Moose hunting is strictly regulated through a lottery system. A limited number of permits are issued annually. The season is typically a 9-day period in October.
Both bear and moose hunters must complete a mandatory harvest report. Special regulations apply for baiting and the use of dogs for bear hunting.
Baiting and Hunting on Private Land
Baiting is allowed for certain species but requires adherence to specific regulations. Deer baiting season has designated start and end dates. Bear baiting follows different rules and timeframes.
All baiting activities require landowner permission. Bait sites must be clearly labeled with the hunter’s name and contact information.
Hunting on private land always requires landowner permission. It’s the hunter’s responsibility to know property boundaries and respect landowner rights.
Hunting in Wildlife Management Areas
New Hampshire is divided into Wildlife Management Units (WMUs) for hunting purposes. Specific regulations, seasons, and bag limits may vary by WMU.
Some WMUs have special deer management programs, offering additional antlerless deer permits. Hunters must be familiar with the regulations specific to the WMU they’re hunting in.
Access to Wildlife Management Areas is generally open to the public. However, some areas may have restricted access or special regulations. Hunters should check current Wildlife Division notices for any temporary closures or changes in regulations.
Hunting Gear and Firearms
New Hampshire non-resident hunters must equip themselves with proper gear and firearms. The state has specific regulations for archery equipment, firearms, and hunting accessories.
Archery Equipment
Bow hunters in New Hampshire can use both traditional bows and crossbows. Longbows, recurve bows, and compound bows are permitted for archery season. The minimum draw weight for bows is 40 pounds. Crossbows must have a minimum draw weight of 125 pounds.
Broadhead arrows or bolts must be at least 7/8 inch wide. Expandable broadheads are allowed if they meet the width requirement when open. Practice arrows with field points are not legal for hunting.
Bow hunters must complete an archery education course before obtaining a license. This requirement ensures hunters understand proper archery techniques and safety protocols.
Firearms and Ammunition
Non-resident hunters can use various firearms in New Hampshire, depending on the game and season. Rifles, shotguns, muzzleloaders, and handguns are permitted for specific hunts.
For deer hunting, centerfire rifles .22 caliber or larger are allowed. Shotguns must be 10 gauge or smaller. Muzzleloaders can be used during the special muzzleloader season.
Hunters must use non-toxic shot for waterfowl hunting. Lead shot is prohibited. Rimfire rifles are not permitted for big game hunting but can be used for small game.
Air rifles are legal for small game hunting in New Hampshire. They must be .177 to .22 caliber and produce at least 600 foot-pounds of muzzle energy.
Other Hunting Accessories
Non-resident hunters should consider additional accessories to enhance their hunting experience. Binoculars help spot game from a distance. A rangefinder can improve accuracy when judging shot distances.
Proper clothing is essential. Blaze orange is required during firearms deer season. Camouflage patterns suited to New Hampshire’s terrain can help hunters blend in during other seasons.
Game cameras are legal in New Hampshire but must be labeled with the owner’s name and address. They can be useful for scouting and monitoring game movements.
A hunting backpack can carry essential gear like a first aid kit, hunting knife, and game calls. A GPS device or compass is crucial for navigation in unfamiliar terrain.
Conservation and Ethics
New Hampshire prioritizes wildlife conservation and ethical hunting practices. The state’s Fish and Game Department works diligently to protect natural resources and promote responsible outdoor recreation.
Conservation Officer Roles
Conservation Officers in New Hampshire play a crucial role in protecting wildlife and natural habitats. They enforce hunting and fishing regulations, conduct search and rescue operations, and educate the public on conservation issues. These officers patrol forests, lakes, and rivers to ensure compliance with state laws.
Conservation Officers also investigate wildlife crimes and work to prevent poaching. They monitor hunting activities during various seasons and check licenses, bag limits, and equipment. Their presence helps maintain the balance between recreational hunting and wildlife preservation.
Land and Wildlife Preservation
New Hampshire’s Fish and Game Department manages numerous wildlife management areas and conservation easements. These protected lands provide crucial habitats for various game and non-game species. The department conducts wildlife surveys, habitat improvement projects, and population management programs.
Funds from hunting licenses contribute significantly to conservation efforts. This money supports habitat restoration, wildlife research, and land acquisition for preservation. The department also works with private landowners to implement conservation practices on their properties.
Ethical Hunting Practices
Ethical hunting is a cornerstone of New Hampshire’s outdoor traditions. Hunters are expected to follow fair chase principles, which ensure animals have a reasonable chance to evade capture. This includes avoiding the use of certain technologies that give hunters an unfair advantage.
The state promotes responsible hunting through education programs and hunter safety courses. These initiatives cover topics such as proper shot placement, wildlife identification, and minimizing wounding loss. Hunters are encouraged to fully utilize harvested game and report their kills to aid in wildlife management efforts.
Respect for private property and other outdoor enthusiasts is also emphasized. Hunters must obtain permission before entering private lands and be aware of other recreational activities in shared spaces.
Reporting and Compliance
Non-resident hunters in New Hampshire must adhere to strict reporting and compliance regulations. These rules ensure ethical hunting practices and help wildlife management efforts.
Harvest Reporting and Tagging
Non-resident hunters must tag harvested deer and turkey immediately after the kill. The tag should be filled out completely and attached securely to the animal. Hunters are required to report their harvest within 24 hours. This can be done online or at designated registration stations throughout the state.
For deer, hunters must register the animal at an official check station. Turkey can be reported online or by phone. Accurate reporting is crucial for population monitoring and setting future hunting quotas.
Legal Requirements and Violations
Non-resident hunters must carry their valid NH hunting license at all times while in the field. Failure to produce a license upon request by a conservation officer is a violation. Hunters should familiarize themselves with season dates, bag limits, and legal hunting hours.
Using artificial lights, hunting from a vehicle, and trespassing on private property without permission are strictly prohibited. Violations can result in fines, license revocation, and potential criminal charges.
Conservation officers conduct regular patrols to ensure compliance. They may inspect licenses, firearms, and harvested game. Cooperation with law enforcement is mandatory for all hunters.
Support and Resources
The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department offers various resources to assist non-resident hunters in obtaining licenses and information. Hunters can access support through multiple channels, including direct contact with the department, local license agents, and online platforms.
NH Fish and Game Department Contact Information
The NH Fish and Game Department’s main office is located at 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. Their Licensing Office operates Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 3:45 PM. Hunters can reach the department by phone at (603) 271-3421 or via email for licensing inquiries.
For technical support with the online licensing system, a dedicated helpline is available at 1-877-450-4994. This service assists users with navigating the digital platform and resolving any issues encountered during the license application process.
License Agents and Regional Offices
NH Fish and Game has established a network of license agents throughout the state. These agents are authorized to issue hunting licenses and provide local support to non-resident hunters. Many sporting goods stores, town clerks’ offices, and other retail locations serve as license agents.
Regional offices are strategically located across New Hampshire to offer more accessible services. These offices can provide detailed information about hunting regulations, wildlife management units, and local hunting opportunities. Non-resident hunters can visit these offices for in-person assistance and to pick up physical copies of hunting guides and maps.
Online Resources and Documentation
HuntNH.com serves as the primary online resource for non-resident hunters. The website offers comprehensive information on licensing requirements, fees, and regulations. Hunters can access downloadable PDF versions of the hunting digest, which contains essential rules and season dates.
The department’s online licensing system allows non-residents to purchase licenses, permits, and tags from their computers or smart phones. Mobile-friendly resources include interactive maps of hunting areas and real-time updates on quota hunts and special permits.
Digital versions of hunting safety courses and educational materials are available through the website. These resources help non-resident hunters familiarize themselves with New Hampshire’s hunting laws and ethics before their trip.
Special Circumstances
New Hampshire offers several hunting license options for specific groups and situations. These accommodate seniors, individuals with disabilities, new hunters, and those who need to replace a lost license.
Senior and Paraplegic Licenses
NH Fish and Game provides discounted licenses for seniors and individuals with paraplegia. Residents aged 68 and older can purchase a permanent hunting and fishing combo license for a reduced fee. This license covers small game, deer, bear, and turkey hunting, as well as freshwater fishing.
Paraplegic individuals may qualify for a free combination hunting and fishing license. To obtain this license, applicants must provide proof of their condition from a licensed physician. The paraplegic license includes the same privileges as the regular combination license.
Both senior and paraplegic licenses are available at NH Fish and Game Headquarters or through authorized license agents.
Apprentice Licenses and Mentored Hunting
New hunters can participate in New Hampshire’s mentored hunting program through apprentice licenses. These licenses allow individuals without hunter education certification to hunt under the guidance of a licensed adult mentor.
Apprentice licenses are valid for one year and can be purchased once in a lifetime. They cover all hunting activities except archery. Mentors must be at least 18 years old, licensed, and remain in sight and voice contact with the apprentice at all times.
The program aims to introduce new hunters to the sport safely and responsibly. Participants are encouraged to complete a hunter education course after their apprentice year.
Lost License Replacement
Hunters who lose their New Hampshire hunting license can obtain a replacement. To get a new license, visit NH Fish and Game Headquarters or contact an authorized license agent.
Bring identification and, if possible, the original license number or purchase receipt. A small fee applies for replacement licenses.
It’s advisable to keep a digital copy or photo of your license as a backup. This can serve as temporary proof while waiting for a replacement.