Hunting

Wildlife management units are used to regulate the harvest of certain big game and small game species.

Wildlife management units (WMUs) were established in 1979 to regulate deer harvest on a geographical basis where deer densities mirrored the effects of habitat quality and winter severity. Since that time, WMUs have been applied to the management of moose, wild turkey, rabbit and hare populations on a regional basis.

Young Vermont hunters take to the field statewide during the annual youth deer weekend in October, three weeks before the opening day of the regular rifle deer hunting season in November. To participate, you must be 15 years old or younger on the weekend of the hunt and have successfully completed a hunter education course.

Vermont Hunting and Trapping Dates - printable pdf

Thousands of acres of public lands are distributed widely across Vermont. Most of these lands are open to hunting, fishing, and other forms of wildlife-based recreation.

State Lands and State-managed Lands

State lands include Wildlife Management Areas, state forests, riparian lands and conservation easements.

The weekend prior to the opening day of the Spring Turkey Season is reserved for youth—15 years old or younger who have successfully completed a hunter education course— to hunt turkeys.

Hunting for turkeys during the youth turkey weekend is statewide.

Vermont boasts the best wild turkey hunting in New England. Considered "Big Game" under Vermont law, you will easily understand why after hunting them. 

Thanks for volunteering. As a Hunter Education Instructor you are contributing to the future of hunting and trapping in Vermont. Use the links below to set up your classes, find training and teaching aids, as well as s pecial offers from retailers.

Furbearer Newsletters

Includes harvest information

Follow these rules to legally transport and possess big game in Vermont that was legally taken in another state or country.

Answers to your questions about hunting safety in Vermont.