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Connecticut Hunting Guide

Connecticut offers whitetail deer and wild turkey hunting on private and state land. Archery runs into late December; shotgun and muzzleloader dates vary by zone. Check DEEP Hunting Guide.

Hunting Highlights

Archery and firearm deer
Spring turkey (Apr-May)
State land lottery
Waterfowl

Connecticut Hunting Seasons 2026

SpeciesArcheryFirearm
Whitetail DeerSep 15 โ€“ Dec 31 private (zones 11-12 Jan 1-31 extension); splits on state landShotgun/rifle private Nov 18 - Dec 8; muzzleloader Dec 9-31 (state land splits)
Wild Turkeyโ€”Spring Apr 29 - May 30 (2026 guide); fall shotgun/archery seasons vary
Waterfowlโ€”Coastal splits; Atlantic Flyway & federal frameworks

* Season dates are approximate and may vary by zone or unit. Always verify with your state wildlife agency for current regulations before hunting.

Official Connecticut hunting regulations โ†’

Key Species in Connecticut

Whitetail DeerWild TurkeyWaterfowl

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