Nevada 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.

In Nevada, there are more than just the Las Vegas Strip and desert climates to explore. Hunting can be a great activity in Nevada, with a variety of game available. Deer and antelope are the most commonly hunted species, while elk, bighorn sheep and mountain goat offer more of a challenge for experienced hunters. The state also offers numerous public lands where hunting is allowed. The Nevada Department of Wildlife sets regulations for the season, which includes a daily bag limit and special restrictions. Hunters are also required to purchase a valid hunting license before they can legally hunt in Nevada. Nonresidents may need additional permits depending on the type of game they plan to hunt. In addition to the regular season, there are also two statewide youth seasons that give young hunters the chance to learn hunting techniques and develop a respect for the outdoors. During these weekends, hunters are allowed the same bag limit as adults but must be accompanied by an adult mentor. Finally, there is an archery season during which all game may still be taken according to regulations, albeit with different restrictions than during the regular season.

Nevada Antelope Seasons

Any Legal WeaponAug 22 – Sep 7
Any Legal WeaponSep 8 – Sep 24
ArcheryAug 1 – Aug 21
MuzzleloaderAug 15 – Oct 4
Any Legal WeaponAug 22 – Oct 30
ArcheryAug 1 – Aug 21
MuzzleloaderAug 15 – Oct 4

*Nevada has a wide range of different animals, as well as time-specific hunting regulations. Make sure to check the official Nevada Department of Wildlife website for up-to-date season information.

Nevada Sheep Seasons

Nelson – Desert Any Ram – Any Legal WeaponSep 15 – Jan 1
Nelson – Desert Any Ram – ArcheryAug 5 – Oct 31
Nelson – Desert Management Ram (Access Limited) – Any Legal WeaponAug 15 – Jan 1
Nelson – Desert Management Ram (One Horn) – Any Legal WeaponJan 5 – Feb 20
Nelson – Desert Any Ewe – Any Legal WeaponOct 1 – Nov 15
Rocky Mountain Any Ram – Any Legal WeaponSep 1 – Sep 1
California Any Ram – Any Legal WeaponSep 1 – Oct 31
California Any Ram – Any Legal Weapon – NonresidentSep 1 – Oct 31
Nelson – Desert Any Ewe – Any Legal Weapon – NonresidentOct 1 – Nov 15
Nelson – Desert Any Ram – Any Legal Weapon – NonresidentSep 10 – Jan 1
Nelson – Desert Any Ram – Archery – NonresidentAug 5 – Aug 25

*Nevada has a wide range of different animals, as well as time-specific hunting regulations. Make sure to check the official Nevada Department of Wildlife website for up-to-date season information.

It is necessary to check in in person during a bighorn sheep hunt in order to ensure that only legal sheep have been taken. Visit the Nevada Department of Wildlife website if you need more information about the check-in process or season dates in your area.

Nevada Mountain Goat Seasons

Any Goat – ResidentSep 1 – Oct 31
Any Goat – NonresidentSep 1 – Oct 31

*Nevada has a wide range of different animals, as well as time-specific hunting regulations. Make sure to check the official Nevada Department of Wildlife website for up-to-date season information.

Nevada’s mountain goat hunts are limited by region. Depending on herd size, the Nevada Wildlife Commission determines the number of mountain goats that are allowed to be harvested in May.

Nevada Elk Seasons

Antlerless Archery – ResidentAug 1 – Aug 24
Antlerless Muzzleloader – ResidentSep 17 – Sep 30
Antlerless Any Legal Weapon – ResidentSep 17 – Jan 1
Antlerless Depredation (Any Legal Weapon) – ResidentAug 1 – Jan 1
Antlered Muzzleloader – ResidentSep 1 – Nov 5
Antlered Any Legal Weapon – ResidentSep 17 – Dec 4
Antlered Archery – ResidentAug 16 – Sep 30
Antlered Spike – ResidentSep 17 – Jan 1
Antlered Depredation (Any Legal Weapon) – ResidentAug 1 – Nov 30
Antlered Any Legal Weapon – NonresidentOct 5 – Dec 4
Antlered Muzzleloader – NonresidentSep 1 – Nov 5
Antlerless Any Legal Weapon – NonresidentSep 17 – Jan 1
Antlerless Archery – NonresidentAug 1 – Aug 24
Antlerless Muzzleloader – NonresidentSep 17 – Sep 30

*Like most states, Nevada has a variety of specific regulations that change by species. Make sure to check the official site for the updated information surrounding elk.

Nevada Crossbow Regulations

Crossbow Specific Regulations: The only time a crossbow may be used for hunting big game is during an “Any Legal Weapon” hunt. Crossbows are not permitted for archery hunts.

  • Crossbows must have a minimum 125-pound draw weight
  • Minimum draw length of 14-inches from front of bow to nocking point
  • Minimum 18-inch stock.
  • Positive Mechanical Safety

Nevada Hunting License

Licenses are available in various forms, including youth, adult, and combination licenses, so you can enjoy the outdoors to the fullest. Hunting may also be subject to tags and other fees. In NRS 502.240, license and tag fees are set by the state’s elected legislature.

If you want to check out the next state on our list, click here to see New Hampshire.

Or, you can check out the last state on our list, Nebraska.

About Al Parsons

Al Parsons is originally from Alabama, but has had the pleasure of hunting all over the United States. Al is an expert on crossbow hunting, as well as traditional rifle hunting. His favorite time of year is the start of Archery Deer season in Alabama, so usually in October.