Skip to content
ProHunt
State Guide

Vermont Hunting Guide

Complete Vermont hunting guide. Vermont hunting seasons, license costs, bag limits, and regulations for all major game species. Updated for the current season.

Wildlife Agency

Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department

Official Site

Hunter safety course required for first-time buyers

Vermont Hunting Seasons

Whitetail Deer

Res: $28 Non-res: $102
Season Type Opens Closes
Archery Oct 1 Dec 15
Rifle Nov 11 Nov 26
Muzzleloader Dec 2 Dec 10

Bag limits: daily: 1, season: 1 buck + antlerless by lottery

Antlerless deer permits by lottery in select WMUs. Vermont is known for quality buck hunting. Youth weekend available.

Turkey

Res: $28 Non-res: $102
Season Type Opens Closes
Shotgun May 1 May 31
Archery Oct 1 Nov 3

Bag limits: daily: 1, season: 2 (1 spring, 1 fall)

Spring bearded turkey. Fall archery and shotgun seasons. Good populations in the Champlain Valley and southern Vermont.

Moose

Res: $100 Non-res: $350
Season Type Opens Closes
Rifle Oct 14 Oct 20

Bag limits: daily: 1, season: 1

Lottery draw only. Very limited permits. Northeast Kingdom has best populations. Season may be restricted due to winter tick concerns.

Bear

Res: $28 Non-res: $102
Season Type Opens Closes
Rifle Sep 1 Nov 11
Archery Oct 1 Nov 3

Bag limits: daily: 1, season: 1

Early bear season with dogs. Bear tag included with big game license. Good populations in the Green Mountains.

Duck/Waterfowl

Res: $28 Non-res: $102
Season Type Opens Closes
Shotgun Oct 3 Dec 10

Bag limits: daily: 6, season: No season limit

Federal duck stamp required. Lake Champlain and Connecticut River Valley are key areas. Atlantic Flyway.

Planning Tools

Vermont Hunting FAQ

Do I need a hunting license in Vermont?
Yes. All hunters in Vermont must hold a valid hunting license from the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department. Non-residents typically pay higher fees. A hunter safety course is required for first-time license buyers.
What is the hunting license cost in Vermont?
Vermont license costs vary by species. Whitetail Deer: resident $28, non-resident $102. Turkey: resident $28, non-resident $102.
When is deer season in Vermont?
Vermont deer seasons: Archery: Oct 1 - Dec 15, Rifle: Nov 11 - Nov 26, Muzzleloader: Dec 2 - Dec 10.
Does Vermont require a hunter safety course?
Yes, Vermont 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 Vermont?
The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department manages all hunting licenses, regulations, and wildlife management in Vermont. Their website (https://vtfishandwildlife.com) has current season dates, license purchasing, and regulation booklets.