Indiana Hunting Guide
Complete Indiana hunting guide. Indiana hunting seasons, license costs, bag limits, and regulations for all major game species. Updated for the current season.
Wildlife Agency
Indiana DNR Division of Fish & Wildlife
Hunter safety course required for first-time buyers
Indiana Hunting Seasons
Whitetail Deer
Res: $24 Non-res: $150
| Season Type | Opens | Closes |
|---|---|---|
| Archery | Oct 1 | Jan 7 |
| Shotgun | Nov 18 | Dec 3 |
| Muzzleloader | Dec 9 | Dec 24 |
Bag limits: daily: 1, season: 1 antlered + bonus antlerless
No high-powered rifle season — shotguns and muzzleloaders only. Bonus antlerless licenses available in most counties.
Turkey
Res: $24 Non-res: $150
| Season Type | Opens | Closes |
|---|---|---|
| Shotgun | Apr 26 | May 14 |
| Archery | Oct 1 | Nov 5 |
Bag limits: daily: 1, season: 1 (spring)
Spring bearded turkey only. Youth season weekend prior to opener. Turkey populations growing statewide.
Duck/Waterfowl
Res: $24 Non-res: $150
| Season Type | Opens | Closes |
|---|---|---|
| Shotgun | Oct 28 | Dec 17 |
Bag limits: daily: 6, season: No season limit
Federal and state stamps required. Indiana is in the Mississippi Flyway. Split season possible.
Planning Tools
- Hunt Cost Calculator — budget your full hunt cost
- Season Tag Planner — never miss an opening day
- Preference Point Tracker — when should you burn your points?
Indiana Hunting Guides
Indiana Hunting FAQ
Do I need a hunting license in Indiana?
Yes. All hunters in Indiana must hold a valid hunting license from the Indiana DNR Division of Fish & Wildlife. Non-residents typically pay higher fees. A hunter safety course is required for first-time license buyers.
What is the hunting license cost in Indiana?
Indiana license costs vary by species. Whitetail Deer: resident $24, non-resident $150. Turkey: resident $24, non-resident $150.
When is deer season in Indiana?
Indiana deer seasons: Archery: Oct 1 - Jan 7, Shotgun: Nov 18 - Dec 3, Muzzleloader: Dec 9 - Dec 24.
Does Indiana require a hunter safety course?
Yes, Indiana requires hunter education certification for all first-time hunters. The course covers firearm safety, hunting laws, wildlife conservation, and ethical hunting practices.
Who manages hunting regulations in Indiana?
The Indiana DNR Division of Fish & Wildlife manages all hunting licenses, regulations, and wildlife management in Indiana. Their website (https://www.in.gov/dnr/fish-and-wildlife) has current season dates, license purchasing, and regulation booklets.