Nebraska Hunting Seasons Information and Regulations
*All information listed below is disclosed based on research we have conducted. We do our best to ensure that all information is up to date and accurate. However, rules and regulations are changing every day. Please make sure to verify your state-specific regulations prior to your hunt.
Nebraska hunting season offers a variety of opportunities for hunters of all levels. From white-tailed deer and pheasant to wild turkey and mourning dove, there is something for everyone. The state has two main hunting seasons – the fall general season, which runs from October through January, and the spring turkey season, which runs from March through May. During these times, the state is divided into zones and hunting regulations are determined for each zone. Hunting permits must be obtained prior to taking part in any hunt, and safety requirements must be followed at all times. Nebraska also offers a variety of other types of hunting activities such as archery, small game, furbearer trapping, and more. With its diverse hunting options and landscapes, Nebraska is an ideal location for both novice and experienced hunters alike. Whether you’re looking to hunt alone or with a group of friends, there is something for everyone in Nebraska’s hunting season.
Nebraska Antelope Seasons
| Archery | Aug 20 – Dec 31, 2023 |
| Muzzleloader | Sep 16 – Oct 1, 2023 |
| Firearm | Oct 14 – Oct 29, 2023 |
| November late doe/fawn | Nov 1 – Jan 31, 2024 |
*Nebraska has a wide range of different animals, as well as time specific hunting regulations. Make sure to check the official Outdoor Nebraska website for up to date season information.
Among Nebraska’s big game experiences, pronghorn hunting is one of the most challenging. It is possible to glass animals from a great distance and determine their horn size.
Nebraska Bighorn Sheep Seasons
| Bighorn Sheep | Nov 28 – Dec 22, 2023 |
*Nebraska has a wide range of different animals, as well as time-specific hunting regulations. Make sure to check the official Outdoor Nebraska website for up-to-date season information.
Permits for Big Horn Sheep hunting are only available through a lottery. The hunt is one-of-a-kind because only one permit is issued. A $25 non-refundable application fee is required, and applicants must be Nebraska residents.
Nebraska Elk Seasons
| Archery bull | Sep 1 – Oct 31, 2023 |
| Firearm bull | Sep 21 – Oct 31, 2023 |
| Early Antlerless | Aug 1 – Oct 31, 2023 |
| Late Antlerless | Nov 1 – Jan 31, 2024 |
*Like most states, Nebraska has a variety of specific regulations that change by species. Make sure to check the official site for the updated information surrounding elk.
Nebraska Deer Seasons
| Archery | Sept 1 – Dec 31, 2023 |
| Special Landowner | Nov 4 – Nov 6, 2023 |
| November Firearm | Nov 11 – Nov 19, 2023 |
| Muzzleloader | Dec 1 – Dec 31, 2023 |
| October River Antlerless Firearm | Oct 1 – Oct 15, 2023 |
| River Antlerless Late Firearm | Jan 1 – Jan 31, 2024 |
| Antlerless Only Season Choice | Sept 1 – Jan 15, 2024 |
| Limited Landowner | Sept 1 – Jan 15, 2024 |
| Late Antlerless Only Firearm | Jan 1 – Jan 15, 2024 |
*Like most states, Nebraska has a variety of specific regulations that change by species. Make sure to check the official site for the updated information surrounding deer.
Nebraska has arguably some of the best whitetail hunting in the country.
Nebraska Wild Turkey Seasons
| Fall Youth Archery and Shotgun | Sep 15, 2022 – Jan 31, 2023 |
| Fall Archery and Shotgun | Sep 15, 2022 – Jan 31, 2023 |
| Spring Archery | Mar 25 – May 31, 2023 |
| Spring Youth Shotgun | Apr 8 – May 31, 2023 |
| Spring Shotgun | Apr 15 – May 31, 2023 |
Nebraska Small Game Seasons
| Squirrel | Aug. 1 – Jan. 31 |
| Rabbit | Sept. 1 – Feb. 28 |
| Grouse | Sept. 1 – Jan. 31 |
| Pheasant, Quail, Partridge | Oct. 29 – Jan. 1 |
*Nebraska has a wide range of different animals, as well as time specific hunting regulations. Make sure to check the official Outdoor Nebraska website for up to date season information.
Nebraska hunting season catch limits, special seasons and hunting regulations vary by animal and region. For more information on obtaining licenses, permits and regulations, please visit the Nebraska Games and Parks Commission website.
Nebraska Crossbow Regulations
Crossbow Specific Regulations: Lawful archery equipment for harvesting big game, including antelope, includes shoulder-fired crossbows with a draw weight of no less than 125 pounds; deer; elk; horned sheep; turkey, and The broadhead of an arrow must be sharpened and have a cutting radius of no less than 7/16 of an inch from the center of the shaft. In the state of Nebraska, it is never permissible to use arrows that have been chemically dipped or equipped with explosives.
- It is not legal to use any artificial light or spotlight projected from a vehicle while having a crossbow on your person.
- Bow hunter education is mandatory for hunters aged 12 to 29 while using a crossbow to hunt big game. Proof of this certification must be in their possession while hunting.
Nebraska Hunting License
To legally purchase a license or permit to hunt, you may be required to have the Hunter Education Certificate, depending on your age.
- Complete the Nebraska hunter education certification requirements.
- Choose the correct permit type.
- Buy the permit through the Nebraska Game & Parks Commission website or a Nebraska–approved vendor.
If you want to check out the next state on our list, click here to see Nevada.
Or, you can check out the last state on our list, Montana.
