Nebraska offers hunters a wealth of opportunities across its diverse landscapes. With 1.3 million acres of publicly accessible lands, the state provides ample space for pursuing game. The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission manages wildlife management areas, state parks, and other public lands that are open to hunting with the proper permits.

Hunters can find a mix of big game, upland birds, waterfowl, and small game throughout Nebraska. The state is known for its quality deer hunting, with both whitetail and mule deer available. Turkey, pheasant, quail, and duck hunting are also popular pursuits. Affordable permits and long seasons make Nebraska an attractive destination for resident and non-resident hunters alike.

Proper preparation is key for a successful hunt in Nebraska. Hunters should familiarize themselves with regulations, obtain required permits, and complete hunter education if necessary. The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission provides resources to help hunters locate public lands, understand hunting seasons, and stay safe in the field. With its abundant wildlife and accessible hunting grounds, Nebraska continues to draw hunters seeking memorable outdoor experiences.

Understanding Nebraska’s Hunting Seasons

Nebraska offers diverse hunting opportunities throughout the year. Seasons vary by species and region, with specific dates set annually by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.

Big Game Seasons

Nebraska’s big game hunting includes deer, elk, antelope, and bighorn sheep. Deer season is particularly popular. The 2024 firearm deer season begins on November 16, the Saturday closest to November 13.

Archery deer season typically runs from September through December. Muzzleloader season often occurs in December.

Elk and antelope seasons are more limited. Hunters must apply for permits through a draw system. Bighorn sheep hunting is extremely restricted, with only a few permits issued annually.

Small Game Seasons

Small game hunting in Nebraska includes rabbits, squirrels, and prairie dogs. These seasons generally run from September through February.

Rabbit season is one of the longest, often starting in September and extending into February. Squirrel hunting typically begins in August and continues through January.

Prairie dog hunting is allowed year-round on private land with landowner permission. On public lands, seasons may be more restricted.

Bird Seasons

Bird hunting is a major draw in Nebraska. Pheasant and quail seasons usually run from late October through January.

Wild turkey hunting occurs in both spring and fall. Spring shotgun season for 2024 is set for April 13 to May 31. Fall seasons for turkey typically span October and November.

Waterfowl seasons vary by species and zone. Duck hunting often begins in October and can extend into January, depending on the zone.

Specialty Hunts

Nebraska offers several specialty hunting opportunities. Mountain lion seasons are set when population levels warrant control measures.

Youth hunts provide young hunters with early access to seasons for various species. These often occur just before or during the first weekend of regular seasons.

Late-season antlerless deer hunts help manage populations. In 2025, a late antlerless firearm season is scheduled for January 1-15.

Some areas offer controlled hunting access programs, providing unique opportunities on managed lands.

Licenses, Permits, and Regulations

Nebraska requires specific licenses and permits for hunting activities. Hunters must comply with state regulations and complete mandatory education requirements.

Obtaining the Right Permits

Nebraska offers various hunting permits tailored to different game and hunter categories. Residents need a hunt permit for small game and waterfowl, while big game requires separate permits. Nonresidents must obtain appropriate permits for all hunting activities.

Habitat Stamps are mandatory for most hunters. They’re required for all small game pursuits and many big game hunts.

Permits can be purchased online, at Game and Parks offices, or by mail. Application deadlines vary by species and hunting season.

Turkey permits are available for spring and fall seasons. The state also offers Supertags and combo lottery options for certain species.

Hunter Education Requirements

Nebraska mandates hunter education for specific age groups and hunting activities. All hunters born after 1977 must complete a state-approved hunter education course.

Youth hunters have special provisions. Those aged 11-15 can participate in mentored hunts through programs like Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever.

The Mentored Youth Archery Program is available for Bowhunter Education graduates aged 12-17.

Age restrictions apply to certain hunts. For deer hunting, the minimum age is 10 years old.

Hunting Laws and Ethics

Hunters in Nebraska must adhere to strict regulations governing hunting practices. These laws cover bag limits, hunting seasons, and allowed hunting methods.

Ethical hunting practices are emphasized. This includes respecting private property, properly tagging game, and following fair chase principles.

Special regulations apply to different species. For example, coyote, porcupine, prairie dog, and woodchuck hunting doesn’t require permits for residents.

Hunters must carry valid licenses and stamps while in the field. Failure to comply with regulations can result in fines or loss of hunting privileges.

Youth hunters aged 15 and under on September 1st of the current year may qualify for youth permits, even if they turn 16 during the season.

Where to Hunt in Nebraska

Nebraska offers diverse hunting opportunities across its public lands, private properties, and special access programs. Hunters can pursue a variety of game species in different habitats throughout the state.

Public Lands Overview

Nebraska provides numerous public hunting areas for sportsmen. These include state and federal lands open to hunting. The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission manages over 300 wildlife management areas totaling more than 190,000 acres.

National forests and grasslands in western Nebraska offer additional public hunting grounds. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service oversees several national wildlife refuges with hunting access.

Hunters should consult the Public Access Atlas published annually by Nebraska Game and Parks. This resource maps out all publicly accessible lands open to hunting across the state.

Wildlife Management Areas

Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) form the backbone of public hunting in Nebraska. These areas are managed specifically to benefit wildlife and provide hunting opportunities.

Popular WMAs include Sacramento-Wilcox in south-central Nebraska and Branched Oak near Lincoln. Many WMAs feature diverse habitats from grasslands to wetlands, supporting multiple game species.

Some larger WMAs offer camping facilities for multi-day hunts. Hunters must follow specific regulations for each WMA, which may include restrictions on vehicle use or hunting methods.

Private Land Options

While public lands are abundant, much of Nebraska’s prime hunting habitat exists on private property. Hunters often seek permission from landowners to access these areas.

The Open Fields and Waters program incentivizes landowners to allow public hunting access on private lands. This expands opportunities, especially in regions with limited public grounds.

Some outfitters and guides lease private lands and offer fee hunting experiences. These can provide access to managed properties with high game populations.

Special Hunting Programs

Nebraska implements several programs to enhance hunting access and opportunities. The PATH (Passing Along The Heritage) program connects youth hunters with mentors and private land access.

Conservation partner lands, managed in cooperation with organizations like Pheasants Forever, provide additional public hunting areas.

The state’s walk-in hunting program allows foot access to enrolled private lands without needing to contact the landowner. This program has opened thousands of acres to public hunting across Nebraska.

Methods and Gear for Nebraska Hunting

Nebraska offers diverse hunting opportunities with several approved methods. Hunters can choose from archery, firearms, or trapping depending on their preferences and target species. Each method requires specific gear and adherence to regulations.

Archery Hunting

Bow hunters in Nebraska enjoy extended seasons for many game species. Compound bows, recurve bows, and crossbows are permitted. Hunters must use broadhead arrows with a cutting diameter of at least 7/8 inch.

Tree stands and ground blinds are popular for deer archery. Portable stands must be removed daily on public lands. Camouflage clothing helps archers blend into their surroundings.

For big game archery, draw weights of at least 40 pounds are recommended. Small game hunters may use lighter bows. Practice is crucial for ethical, accurate shots at typical archery ranges of 20-40 yards.

Firearm Hunting

Shotguns, rifles, and muzzleloaders are common firearms for Nebraska hunting. Specific regulations apply to each game species and season. Shotguns are required for turkey and some waterfowl hunts.

Rifles are popular for deer, antelope, and elk. Many hunters use scopes for improved accuracy. Muzzleloaders offer an additional primitive weapon season for some big game.

Hunters must wear at least 400 square inches of blaze orange during firearm deer seasons. This applies to all hunters, including archers, for safety. Shooting hours are typically 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset.

Trapping

Trapping is a regulated method for harvesting furbearers in Nebraska. Common target species include raccoon, beaver, and coyote. Trappers must obtain proper permits and follow specific regulations.

Foothold traps, body-gripping traps, and cable restraints are allowed with restrictions on size and placement. Trappers must check their sets daily and release non-target animals unharmed.

Proper gear includes traps, stakes, wire, and tools for set construction. Many trappers use lures or baits to attract target species. Knowledge of animal behavior and habitat is crucial for successful, ethical trapping.

Conservation and Wildlife Management

Nebraska takes a proactive approach to preserving its natural habitats and wildlife populations. The state implements various strategies to balance conservation needs with recreational hunting opportunities.

Role of Hunting in Conservation

Hunting plays a crucial role in Nebraska’s wildlife management efforts. It helps control animal populations, preventing overpopulation and associated habitat damage. Regulated hunting seasons ensure sustainable harvest levels for game species like deer, turkey, and waterfowl.

The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission uses data from annual wildlife surveys to set appropriate harvest quotas. This scientific approach maintains healthy ecosystems while providing hunting opportunities.

Hunters also serve as valuable partners in conservation. Their observations and reports contribute to wildlife monitoring efforts across the state.

Habitat Restoration Efforts

Nebraska focuses on restoring and enhancing wildlife habitats to support diverse species. The state manages over 250 wildlife management areas (WMAs) totaling thousands of acres.

These WMAs provide critical habitats for both native and migratory species. Management practices include:

• Controlled burns to promote native plant growth
• Wetland restoration
• Planting food plots for wildlife
• Invasive species removal

The Missouri River Recovery Program is a notable restoration initiative. It aims to improve riparian and aquatic habitats along Nebraska’s eastern border.

Conservation Funding

Hunting licenses and permits generate significant revenue for conservation efforts in Nebraska. These funds support:

• Wildlife research
• Habitat improvement projects
• Land acquisition for public access

The Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Act (Pittman-Robertson Act) provides additional funding. It allocates a portion of firearm and ammunition sales taxes to state wildlife agencies.

Nebraska also leverages partnerships with conservation organizations to maximize resources. These collaborations enhance the state’s ability to implement large-scale habitat projects and wildlife studies.

Reporting and Game Check-In

Nebraska requires hunters to report their harvests through established systems. This ensures proper wildlife management and compliance with regulations.

Nebraska Telecheck Program

The Nebraska Telecheck Program allows hunters to report their turkey, deer, antelope, and elk harvests online or by phone. Hunters can access the online system 24/7 to enter required harvest information. For phone reporting, call 844-279-4564. Telecheck is mandatory for deer taken outside the November firearm season. During November firearm season, hunters have two options: Telecheck or in-person check stations. The online method is recommended for its convenience and faster data collection.

Other Reporting Requirements

For antelope, deer, and elk harvested during specific seasons, hunters must visit check stations. Animals should not be field dressed beyond quartering before checking. Hunters should call ahead to confirm check station hours. This process helps game officials collect important biological data and enforce bag limits. Proper reporting is crucial for wildlife conservation efforts and maintaining accurate harvest records. Hunters are responsible for knowing and following all reporting requirements for their specific game animals and seasons.