Connecticut archery season has abundant species offering hunters plenty of opportunities throughout the year. Deer populations are healthy and thriving, and there are options for turkey, small game, and waterfowl. Connecticut outlaws bear hunting, so hunters need to prepare themselves for bear encounters on their adventures.
Connecticut (CT) Archery Season, 2022-2023
The Northeast of the United States has some of the best scenery and weather in the country. However, when t comes to deer, the state struggled with outbreaks of hemorrhagic disease in deer populations in Deer Management Zone 11 during the summer of 2020.
There have been no other reports of this issue in different areas throughout the state since then. The northwestern region in zones 1 and 2 experiences an ever-increasing black bear and bobcat population. Since the state outlaws black bear hunting, it impacts fawn survival.
Hunters can legally take a maximum of 14 deer per season, including during the January archery season. This take-limit also includes hunting on private land in DMZs 11 and 12.
When does Archery Season Start in CT?
Connecticut Deer Seasons
Archery and Bowhunting
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Private Land September 15-December 31
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State Land Bowhunting Only Areas: September 15- December 31
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State Land September 15-November 15 /December 21-31
Connecticut Turkey Seasons
Fall Archery
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Private Land (Zones 11-12) January 1-31
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Private Land September 15-December 31
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State Land Bowhunting Only Areas: September 15-December 31
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State Land September 15-November 15, and December 21-31
Connecticut Small Game Seasons
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Cottontail Rabbit and European Hare January 1-February 28 / October 15-December 31
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Gray Squirrel January 1-February 28 / September 1-December 31
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Snowshoe Hare January 1-31 / November 19-December 31
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Woodchuck March 15-November 15
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Chukar Partridge January 1-February 28 / October 15-December 31
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Quail October 15-31
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Pheasant January 1-February 28 / October 15-December 31
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Ruffed Grouse October 15-November 30
Connecticut doesn’t require separate tags for pheasant hunting. However, hunters must purchase a pheasant hunting stamp for their small game permit or hunting license. The department prints these stamps directly onto permits.
Can You Hunt on Sundays in Connecticut?
Hunting is permitted on Sundays in Connecticut in regulated dog training areas, and private shooting preserves when operators have permission. Hunting can take place on Sunday at field trial events with special permissions.
What are the legal hunting hours in Connecticut?
The legal times for hunting in Connecticut are from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset. Hunters must carry their small game and deer archery permits. When buying deer and small game archery permits, hunters must have proof of completion of the Connecticut CE/FS bowhunting course or equivalent from other states or countries.
Hunting Licenses and Permits in CT
Connecticut issues small game hunting licenses for a fee for residents and non-residents. Active Armed Forces personnel can purchase permits at the same rates as residents.
Applicants must possess certification from Connecticut’s Conservation Education Safety program or an equivalent before applying for a hunting license.
Purchase Your Hunting License Online
Connecticut residents and non-residents can purchase licenses, permits, and tags online at its official website. Connecticut residents must register for a Connecticut Conservation ID to buy their permits, tags, and licenses online.
Check out our guide 30+ Hunting Rules to Keep You Safe while bowhunting in the wild.
