Hunting Seasons in Nebraska
Essential Dates and Species Guide
This Article is Part of Our Hunting Seasons Guide for All 50 US States
Nebraska offers a rich tapestry of wildlife, presenting hunters with diverse opportunities throughout the year. The state is often acclaimed as the mixed-bag hunting capital of the Great Plains, where the landscape serves as habitat to a wide array of game species. The hunting seasons in Nebraska are meticulously structured to provide substantial prospects for hunters while simultaneously ensuring the conservation of wildlife populations.
From vast prairies to rolling hills and river valleys, Nebraska's hunting grounds are as varied as the species that inhabit them. Big game such as deer can be pursued from the opening of archery season in August through the end of December, while hunters interested in smaller game can engage in hunting upland birds, rabbits, and squirrels. The Nebraska Game & Parks Commission updates regulations annually, including season dates, hunting zones, bag limits, and the necessary permits required to hunt legally in the state.
Each hunting season is carefully regulated to ensure ethical hunting practices and the sustainable management of wildlife resources. Hunters are required to be conversant with these regulations, which are available on the Nebraska Game & Parks Commission's website and in published hunting guides. Season dates and other updates, such as check stations and area restrictions, are also made available—typically by summer—for the planning of hunts in the upcoming season.
General Hunting Regulations in Nebraska
In Nebraska, hunters must adhere to specific regulations designed to ensure safety, conservation, and fair chase. State laws govern the issuance of permits, hunter education, hunting ethics, and species-specific guidelines.
Hunting Permits and Licenses
Hunters must obtain the necessary permits and licenses before engaging in hunting activities. Permits are species-specific and may have varying dates and requirements based on the animal being hunted. A general hunting license is also mandatory and must be carried at all times during hunting. Hunters need to be aware of the bag limits and hunting zones, as these may affect the type and quantity of species that can be harvested.
Hunter Education and Certification
Hunter education courses are obligatory for new hunters, often required before the issuance of a first-time hunting license. This certification program equips hunters with knowledge about safe firearm handling, wildlife management, and responsible hunting practices. Hunters born after January 1, 1977, are typically required to complete this education and keep their certification proof while hunting.
Hunting Rules and Ethics
Hunting rules are strictly enforced to ensure the welfare of both wildlife populations and hunters. These rules include specific season dates for various game, lawful shooting hours, and the use of legal firearms and archery equipment. Nebraska puts a strong emphasis on ethical hunting, which involves respecting landowners’ rights, following fair chase principles, and taking only shots that offer a humane and quick harvest.
Telecheck and Reporting Requirements
Nebraska utilizes a Telecheck system that obligates hunters to report their harvest of deer or antelope. This process can be completed 24 hours a day, either online or by telephone. It serves as a convenient method for hunters to check in their game without having to visit a physical check station. This system, however, is not available during the nine-day firearm season when alternate check-in methods may be required.
Big Game Seasons and Guidelines
Nebraska offers a variety of big game hunting seasons, each with specific dates and regulations. Hunters must obtain the appropriate permits and follow established guidelines for a successful and legal hunt.
Deer Hunting Season
Deer hunters in Nebraska can choose from several seasons. Archery season runs from September 1 to December 31, allowing bow hunters a lengthy period to harvest deer. The November Firearm season is a shorter opportunity from November 11 to November 19. Muzzleloader season follows, spanning the month of December from the 1st to the 31st.
Elk Hunting Season
Elk hunters are presented with specific periods depending on the chosen method and permit. Dates can differ annually, so checking with the Nebraska Game & Parks Commission for the current year's schedule is crucial.
Antelope Hunting Season
The season for hunting antelope typically includes an Archery season from September 1 through December 31. Additionally, there are limited Special Landowner seasons, often spanning a few days in early November.
Bighorn Sheep Hunting Season
Bighorn sheep hunting is highly regulated due to conservation efforts and typically involves a drawing for a limited number of permits. Successful applicants are notified of the season dates and specific guidelines.
Mountain Lion Hunting Season
Mountain lion seasons are determined by monitoring the population and management goals. Hunters should verify the current status and dates for mountain lion hunting seasons with the Nebraska Game & Parks Commission, as these can change based on annual assessments.
Note for all hunters: Nebraska requires adherence to hunter education requirements. Hunters must also use designated check stations to report their harvests. All hunting dates are subject to change, and it is the responsibility of the hunter to confirm the season dates and regulations before heading out.
Small Game and Furbearer Seasons
Nebraska offers a variety of seasons for hunting small game and furbearers. These seasons are set with specific dates, ensuring that hunters can enjoy their pursuits while following the state's conservation and wildlife management objectives.
Pheasant, Quail, and Grouse Seasons
Pheasant: October 28, 2023, to January 31, 2024
Quail: October 28, 2023, to January 31, 2024
Prairie Grouse: September 1, 2023, to January 31, 2024 (a special permit is required east of U.S. 81)
Squirrel and Rabbit Hunting
Nebraska's hunters can pursue both squirrels and rabbits during the determined seasons:
Squirrel: August 1, 2023, to January 31, 2024
Cottontail: September 1, 2023, to February 28, 2024
Jackrabbit: not listed with specific dates; check for local regulations.
Trapping Regulations and Seasons
Trapping in Nebraska doesn't require the completion of a hunter education course, but knowledge of trapping regulations is crucial:
General Season: Dates vary by species and are specified in the Nebraska Game & Parks regulations.
Bobcat: Seasonal dates and required tagging regulations must be observed.
Muskrat and Beaver: Often included within general trapping season dates, but zones can have specific restrictions.
Furbearer Hunting Season
Various furbearer species have designated seasons for hunting, typically aligning with trapping seasons, but hunters must be aware of any special rules or permits needed:
Badger, Mink, Opossum, Raccoon, Red Fox, Gray Fox, Striped Skunk, Long-tailed Weasel: General hunting seasons coincide with trapping seasons.
Bobcat: Additional rules or permits may apply, and tag submission within a specified timeline is required post-harvest.
For all small game and furbearer seasons, hunters should always check the latest Nebraska Game & Parks Commission rules and updates before heading out into the field.
Migratory Bird Hunting Seasons
Nebraska offers a diverse range of hunting opportunities for migratory birds. Hunters can participate in waterfowl, dove, woodcock, and other migratory bird hunting seasons, adhering to specific dates and regulations.
Waterfowl Season
Duck (What wine goes well with duck?) and Coot: Nebraska's duck and coot hunting seasons are divided by zones:
Zone 1: October 14 - December 26
Zone 2: October 7 - December 19, January 10 - 31
Zone 3: October 28 - January 9, January 10 - 31
Zone 4: October 28 - January 9
Goose: The goose season includes various species, categorized as light goose, dark goose, and white-fronted goose. Season dates may vary and should be verified with the Nebraska Game & Parks Commission.
Hunters must possess a valid permit, and adhering to bag limits is mandatory. Hunter education certification may be required for some hunters, and the usage of the Telecheck system ensures proper reporting of harvests.
Dove and Woodcock Hunting
Dove: Hunting seasons for dove, including mourning doves and Eurasian collared-doves, typically begin on September 1st and continue through various dates in the fall.
Woodcock: The woodcock season in Nebraska has specific dates that hunters should check with the Nebraska Game & Parks Commission for the current year.
These hunting activities are regulated, and hunters should always check for the most current information regarding season dates and regulations before heading out.
Other Migratory Birds
Snipe, Virginia and Sora Rail: Hunting seasons for these webless migratory birds, including snipe and both Virginia and sora rail, have their own specific season dates which can be found through the Nebraska Game & Parks Commission.
Crow: The hunting season for crow is typically not restricted to a short window, allowing for a longer hunting period that extends over several months.
For all migratory bird hunting, it's important for hunters to be informed about the birds they are targeting, understand the use of baiting laws, and follow all migratory bird hunting regulations.
Turkey Hunting Seasons
In Nebraska, turkey hunting seasons are clearly defined to offer hunters various opportunities throughout the year. The archery season typically starts on September 1 and extends until December 31, allowing hunters to use bows for turkey hunting. A specific period within this season is earmarked for muzzleloader enthusiasts, beginning December 1 and ending on December 31. Hunters who prefer traditional firearms have a dedicated November firearm season from November 11 to November 19.
Season Dates:
Archery: September 1 - December 31
Muzzleloader: December 1 - December 31
November Firearm: November 11 - November 19
In the fall, the state regulates turkey hunting through two additional seasons focusing on antlerless turkey population management: the October River Antlerless Firearm season (October 1 to October 15) and the River Antlerless Late Firearm season (January 1 to January 31, 2024).
For the spring season, hunters can mark their calendars for April 14 to May 31, 2024. A youth season usually precedes this, proposed for April 6-7, 2024.
Bag Limits:
Spring Season: Two bearded or one bearded and one unbearded turkey
Permit Requirements: All turkey hunters require a valid permit, with some changes noted for recent years, such as a reduction in the number of spring permits available for purchase.
In addition to permit regulations, hunters must also complete hunter education certification if they are age 12 through 29 and plan to hunt with a firearm or archery equipment. Nebraska extends its public access to over 1 million acres, providing ample opportunities for hunting turkeys on various terrains.
Special Season and Land Access Information
Nebraska offers distinct hunting opportunities through special seasons and land access programs. These cater to resident and nonresident hunters, with special provisions for landowners and specific considerations for wildlife management.
Public Land Access for Hunting
Nebraska's public lands provide hunters with ample opportunities to pursue game during the legal seasons. Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) are open for hunting, with restrictions aligned with the seasons and area-specific regulations. Access to public land is facilitated through the Public Access Atlas, which delineates WMA boundaries and permissible areas for motorized vehicles.
Special Landowner Permits and Seasons
Residents who own land have the advantage of special landowner permits. To participate, landowners must register their land with the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. During the 2023 season, the Special Landowner Deer Season ran from November 4 to November 6. Similarly, other tailored seasons such as the Limited Landowner season from September 1, 2023, to January 15, 2024, demonstrate the state's acknowledgment of landowners' unique position in conservation and game management.
Controlled Hunts and Special Lotteries
Nebraska administers controlled hunts and combo lotteries, such as the Supertags and Bighorn Sheep Lottery, aimed at promoting sustainable hunting practices. These lotteries and controlled hunts require a separate application process and offer a limited number of permits to ensure proper wildlife management and improve the hunting experience for participants. Hunter education is a prerequisite for obtaining permits, ensuring that all hunters have the necessary skills and knowledge for a responsible hunting season.
Nebraska Game and Parks Commission Resources
The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission provides comprehensive resources for both experienced hunters and newcomers. These resources aim to manage wildlife sustainably while offering education on hunting regulations and opportunities across the state.
Wildlife Management and Conservation
The Commission takes a scientific approach to wildlife management and conservation efforts, ensuring a balance between Nebraska's game species and their habitats. It enforces season dates and bag limits for various species to promote healthy ecosystems and robust populations. In managing wildlife, the Commission prioritizes both conservation and sport, catering to the interests of resident and nonresident hunters alike.
Education and Outreach Programs
Hunter education is a cornerstone of the Commission's work, with a focus on safety, ethics, and conservation. These programs are designed to foster a deeper understanding of Nebraska's fish and game species, as well as the regulations that govern hunting activities. Outreach efforts aim to equip hunters with the knowledge they need to contribute positively to the state’s outdoor heritage.
Program Offerings:
Workshops
Online Resources
In-person Training Sessions
Hunting Areas and Park Information
The Commission provides detailed information on public land and park spaces available for hunting across Nebraska. Hunters can access guides that include maps, allowed game species, and accessibility details for both local and visiting outdoorsmen. This ensures hunters can find suitable locations for pursuing a wide array of species and enjoy the rich hunting experiences that Nebraska offers.
Park Spaces:
Public Access Lands: Multiple areas designated for hunting
Private Lands: Special programs and permits for access
These resources by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission support ethical hunting practices and promote the state's commitment to conservation and outdoor recreation.
Seasonal Hunting Reminders and Updates
In Nebraska, hunters must mark their calendars with the latest season dates for various game to ensure compliance with state regulations. For upland bird enthusiasts, dates are typically announced closer to the season; however, those targeting Eurasian collared-doves should note that there’s often no closed season for this species, and they can hunt them year-round.
Light Goose Conservation Order permits are crucial for those participating in the effort to manage the snow goose population. Hunters must obtain the appropriate orders before the season begins, and they should always verify the exact start and end dates, as these can vary annually.
The October River Antlerless Firearm season offers a focused opportunity to hunt female deer. It aims to control the deer population effectively and usually spans from October 1 to October 15. The River Antlerless Late Firearm follows, running from January 1 to January 31.
For deer hunters, Antlerless Only Season Choice permits are available for the Late Antlerless Only Firearm season, presenting additional chances to hunt after the regular firearm season has closed.
Table 1: Select Deer Hunting Seasons and Zones for 2023-2024
Season Season Dates Zone October River Antlerless Oct. 1 - Oct. 15, 2023 Specified zones River Antlerless Late Firearm Jan. 1 - Jan. 31, 2024 Specified zones November Firearm Nov. 11 - Nov. 19, 2023 Statewide Muzzleloader Dec. 1 - Dec. 31, 2023 Statewide
Hunters targeting whitetail and mule deer must be aware that these specific firearm and muzzleloader seasons allow hunting for both species unless specified by their permits.
It's imperative for all hunters to validate their permits and familiarize themselves with the orders, as these documents dictate the legal framework for each hunting season. These regulations are in place to ensure a sustainable and ethical hunting culture in Nebraska. Always check the latest updates from the Nebraska Game & Parks Commission to stay informed.
Appendix
The Appendix serves as a supporting section where hunters can access additional resources such as educational centers, retail outlets for gear, and conservation efforts.
Hunter Education Centers
Nebraska's Hunter Education Centers offer comprehensive training and safety programs. Prospective hunters can learn about ethical hunting practices, state regulations, and handling firearms safely.
Locations:
Lincoln Hunter Education Center
Omaha Hunter Outreach Office
Local Hunting Supply Stores
For the necessary gear, local hunting supply stores are stocked with equipment tailored to Nebraska's hunting seasons. They offer a range of products from camouflage clothing to scent blockers.
Recommended Stores:
Big Buck's Hunting Goods, Lincoln
Camo Corner, Omaha
The Hunter's Lodge, Kearney
Wildlife Preservation Initiatives
Wildlife Preservation Initiatives in Nebraska are crucial for maintaining biodiversity and ensuring sustainable hunting practices. They focus on habitat preservation, species protection, and ecological education.
Key Initiatives:
Sandhill Crane Conservation Campaign
Prairie Chicken Protection Program
