Essential Guide to North Dakota Non-Resident Hunting Licenses

North Dakota offers nonresident hunters the opportunity to pursue game in its diverse landscapes. Obtaining a nonresident hunting license is a crucial step for those planning to hunt in the state. Nonresident hunters can purchase licenses online, through a mobile app, or at authorized vendors across North Dakota.

The North Dakota Game and Fish Department manages several types of nonresident hunting licenses. These include options for big game, small game, waterfowl, and turkey hunting. Fees for nonresident licenses are typically higher than those for residents, and some licenses may be limited in number or restricted to specific zones or seasons.

Nonresident hunters should be aware of additional requirements when planning their North Dakota hunting trip. These may include federal stamps for waterfowl hunting, Harvest Information Program (HIP) certification, and special permits for certain species or areas. It’s essential to review current regulations and deadlines, as they can change from year to year.

Types of Nonresident Licenses in North Dakota

A hunter purchasing a North Dakota nonresident hunting license at a wildlife department office

North Dakota offers several hunting license options for nonresidents. These licenses cater to different types of game and hunting activities, allowing out-of-state hunters to enjoy the state’s diverse wildlife.

General Game and Habitat License

The General Game and Habitat License is a prerequisite for most hunting activities in North Dakota. Nonresidents must purchase this license before obtaining other specific hunting permits. It serves as a foundation for hunting privileges in the state.

This license contributes to wildlife conservation efforts and habitat management programs. The fees collected help fund various initiatives to maintain North Dakota’s natural resources.

Small Game License

Nonresident hunters pursuing small game species in North Dakota need to obtain a Small Game License. This permit covers hunting for animals such as rabbits, squirrels, and upland game birds.

The Small Game License is typically valid for the entire hunting season. Hunters must adhere to bag limits and season dates specified in the current regulations.

Nonresident Waterfowl License

For those interested in duck and goose hunting, North Dakota offers a Nonresident Waterfowl License. This permit allows out-of-state hunters to participate in the state’s renowned waterfowl seasons.

The license includes access to both duck and goose hunting opportunities. Hunters must also possess a federal duck stamp and follow all waterfowl hunting regulations.

Furbearer Certificate

Nonresidents planning to trap or hunt furbearing animals in North Dakota need to obtain a Furbearer Certificate. This permit covers species such as coyotes, foxes, and beavers.

The Furbearer Certificate is required in addition to other necessary licenses. Trappers must follow specific regulations regarding trapping methods and reporting requirements.

Deer Gun License for Nonresidents

North Dakota allocates a limited number of Deer Gun Licenses to nonresidents through a lottery system. Interested hunters must apply during the designated application period.

This license allows nonresidents to participate in the state’s popular deer hunting season. Successful applicants must purchase their license by a specified deadline to retain their hunting privileges.

Hunters are required to follow all regulations regarding weapon types, hunting zones, and tagging requirements. The North Dakota Game and Fish Department provides detailed information on season dates and specific hunting unit regulations.

Eligibility Criteria for Nonresidents

Nonresident hunters must meet specific requirements to obtain hunting licenses in North Dakota. These criteria ensure fair access while maintaining conservation efforts.

Licensing Requirements

Nonresidents need a combination of certificates and licenses to hunt in North Dakota. The basic requirements include a Fishing, Hunting, and Furbearer Certificate, as well as a General Game and Habitat License. For deer hunting, nonresidents can apply for the Deer Gun license lottery.

The application fee for the deer lottery is $5 and is nonrefundable. If unsuccessful in the first lottery, nonresidents may have another chance in subsequent drawings. After the second lottery, any remaining deer gun licenses become available for $55.

Nonresident youth hunters under 16 have special provisions. They can purchase resident-priced certificates and licenses for small game and waterfowl hunting, excluding swans and wild turkeys.

Residency Requirements

North Dakota defines nonresidents as individuals who have not maintained a permanent residence in the state for the required period. Nonresidents face some restrictions compared to residents.

Certain hunting opportunities, like pronghorn antelope hunts, are limited to residents only. Nonresidents should carefully review regulations for each species they intend to hunt.

Residency status affects license fees and available hunting options. Nonresidents typically pay higher fees for licenses and may have limited access to certain lotteries or seasons.

To verify eligibility or resolve residency questions, hunters can contact the North Dakota Game and Fish Department’s licensing section at (701) 328-6335.

How to Apply for Nonresident Licenses

A person filling out a North Dakota nonresident hunting license application form at a desk with a computer and a pen

Nonresident hunters can obtain North Dakota hunting licenses through online purchases, retail outlets, or lottery applications. The North Dakota Game and Fish Department offers multiple options to accommodate different preferences and requirements.

Online Purchase

Nonresidents can buy licenses through the North Dakota Game and Fish Department website or mobile app. The online system provides 24/7 access and instant license delivery. Users must create an account or log in to an existing one. The process involves selecting the desired license type, providing personal information, and making a secure payment.

Electronic licenses can be printed at home or stored on a mobile device. Some licenses may require additional documentation or certifications, which can often be uploaded during the online application process.

Retail Purchase

Many local sporting goods stores, bait shops, and other authorized retailers across North Dakota sell hunting licenses. Nonresidents can visit these locations to purchase licenses in person. Retail purchases offer face-to-face assistance and immediate license issuance.

Buyers should bring valid identification and be prepared to provide necessary information. Some specialty licenses or permits may not be available at all retail locations, so it’s advisable to check with the retailer beforehand.

Lottery Application

Certain hunting opportunities, such as deer gun licenses, are allocated through a lottery system. Nonresidents can apply for these licenses online or by mail. The application period typically opens in spring, with specific deadlines for each species or season.

Applicants must pay a non-refundable application fee. If successful, they will be notified and required to pay the full license fee. Unsuccessful applicants may receive a refund of the license fee portion. Some licenses become available for purchase after the lottery on a first-come, first-served basis.

Lottery results are usually announced several weeks after the application deadline. Applicants can check their status online or by contacting the North Dakota Game and Fish Department.

Hunting Seasons and Opportunities

A hunter in camouflage gear holds a rifle, surrounded by tall grass and trees in a North Dakota forest

North Dakota offers diverse hunting opportunities for nonresidents throughout the year. Hunters can pursue waterfowl, small game, big game, and furbearers during designated seasons.

Waterfowl Seasons

Duck season typically runs from late September to early December. Goose hunting is split into early and regular seasons, with the early season starting in August and the regular season extending into December.

Nonresident youth hunters can participate in waterfowl hunting with a North Dakota resident fishing, hunting and furbearer certificate and a resident general game and habitat license.

Special regulations apply for swan hunting, which requires a separate permit obtained through a lottery system.

Small Game Seasons

Pheasant season usually begins in mid-October and lasts through early January. Grouse and partridge seasons start in September and run through early January.

Sharp-tailed grouse and Hungarian partridge can be hunted in most areas of the state. Ruffed grouse hunting is limited to specific regions.

Rabbit and squirrel seasons extend from September to February, providing ample opportunities for small game enthusiasts.

Big Game Seasons

Deer gun season is a popular draw for nonresidents, typically occurring in November. Licenses are allocated through a lottery system, with a nonrefundable application fee of $5.

Archery deer season runs longer, usually from September through early January. Mule deer and white-tailed deer are both available for hunting.

Pronghorn antelope and elk seasons are more limited, with specific units and dates determined annually based on population surveys.

Furbearer Seasons

Coyote hunting is open year-round for nonresidents with no closed season. Trapping seasons for other furbearers like beaver, mink, and muskrat typically run from November through March.

Fox hunting season generally aligns with the coyote season, offering predator hunting opportunities throughout the year.

Bobcat hunting and trapping is restricted to specific zones and usually occurs from November to March, with strict quotas in place.

Regulations and Legal Considerations

A hunter purchasing a North Dakota non-resident hunting license from a state wildlife office

North Dakota maintains strict regulations for non-resident hunters to ensure sustainable wildlife populations and fair hunting practices. These rules cover bag limits, designated hunting areas, conservation efforts, and permitted equipment.

Bag Limits and Restrictions

Non-resident hunters in North Dakota must adhere to specific bag limits for each game species. For deer hunting, limits vary based on the type of license obtained. Antlerless white-tailed deer licenses are available for youth hunters aged 11-13. Waterfowl hunters face daily and possession limits set by the North Dakota Game and Fish Department.

Hunting hours are typically from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset. Some species have shorter seasons or restricted hunting periods. Non-residents should carefully review the current year’s proclamation for exact dates and times.

Hunting Area Regulations

North Dakota divides its hunting territory into units, each with specific regulations. Non-resident hunters are often restricted to certain units or time periods to manage hunting pressure.

Some areas require special permits or additional fees. Private land access may need landowner permission. Wildlife management areas and refuges have their own set of rules.

Hunters must be aware of property boundaries and respect posted signs. The North Dakota PLOTS (Private Land Open To Sportsmen) program offers public hunting access on private lands.

Wildlife Conservation Rules

Conservation is a key focus of North Dakota’s hunting regulations. Non-resident hunters must purchase a Fishing, Hunting, Furbearer Certificate and a General Game and Habitat License in addition to their specific hunting licenses.

These fees support wildlife management programs. Hunters are required to report their harvests, which helps track population trends. Wanton waste laws mandate the proper use of harvested game.

Certain species may have special protection status. Hunters should be able to identify protected species and avoid harvesting them.

Legal Equipment and Methods

North Dakota specifies legal hunting equipment for each game species. For firearms, there are restrictions on caliber size and magazine capacity. Bow hunters must meet draw weight requirements.

Electronic calls are prohibited for most species. Baiting regulations vary by area and game type. Non-toxic shot is required for waterfowl hunting.

Hunters must wear blaze orange during deer gun season. Night vision devices and artificial lights are generally not allowed for big game hunting.

Trespassing laws are strictly enforced. Shooting from vehicles or roads is illegal. Hunters should familiarize themselves with all legal methods and equipment before their hunt.

Additional Licensing and Conservation Stamps

A serene landscape with a serene lake surrounded by pine trees, with a hunting license and conservation stamps displayed in the foreground

North Dakota requires non-resident hunters to obtain specific stamps and registrations beyond the basic hunting license. These additional requirements support wildlife conservation efforts and provide access to certain hunting opportunities.

Federal Duck Stamp

Non-resident hunters pursuing migratory waterfowl in North Dakota must purchase a Federal Duck Stamp. This stamp costs $25 and is valid from July 1 to June 30 of the following year. Hunters can buy the stamp at post offices, some sporting goods stores, or online through the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service website.

The Federal Duck Stamp serves as a hunting license and a conservation tool. Ninety-eight percent of the proceeds go directly to wetland acquisition and conservation efforts. Hunters must sign the stamp and carry it while waterfowl hunting.

HIP Registration

HIP (Harvest Information Program) registration is mandatory for all migratory game bird hunters in North Dakota. This free registration helps wildlife managers estimate harvest rates and set appropriate hunting regulations.

Hunters can complete HIP registration when purchasing their hunting license or online through the North Dakota Game and Fish Department website. The registration involves answering a few questions about hunting activity from the previous year.

HIP certification is valid for the current hunting season and must be renewed annually.

Fishing License Options

Non-resident hunters visiting North Dakota may also want to take advantage of fishing opportunities. The state offers several fishing license options for non-residents:

  • 3-day license: $27
  • 10-day license: $38
  • Annual license: $52

These licenses cover all species of fish. Anglers pursuing paddlefish need an additional paddlefish tag. Non-residents under 16 can fish without a license if accompanied by a licensed adult.

Fishing licenses can be purchased online, at license vendors, or by phone. They are valid from April 1 to March 31 of the following year.

Youth Hunting and Education Programs

A group of young hunters gather in a North Dakota field, accompanied by instructors, learning about wildlife and conservation

North Dakota offers youth-specific hunting opportunities and educational programs to engage young people in outdoor activities and wildlife conservation. These initiatives aim to instill responsible hunting practices and safety awareness from an early age.

Youth License Information

North Dakota provides special hunting licenses for youth. Residents and nonresidents under age 16 can purchase reduced-price licenses for various game species. Youth ages 11-15 may hunt small game and waterfowl without a license if accompanied by a licensed adult.

For big game hunting, youth ages 12-15 must obtain a youth deer license. These licenses are available at a discounted rate compared to adult licenses. Youth hunters can participate in special deer hunting seasons designed to provide additional opportunities.

Hunter Education Requirements

Hunter education is mandatory for most youth hunters in North Dakota. Individuals born after December 31, 1961, must complete a certified hunter education course to purchase a hunting license.

The state offers two types of hunter education courses:

  1. Traditional classroom course (14 hours)
  2. Home study course (split between online study and classroom)

Youth can enroll in hunter education starting the calendar year they turn 11. Upon successful completion, students receive a certification card required for license purchases.

Exceptions exist for youth under 12 hunting on family-owned land. The education requirement ensures young hunters learn firearm safety, hunting ethics, and wildlife conservation principles before heading afield.