New Jersey 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.
Although one of the smallest and most densely populated states in the nation, New Jersey offers numerous hunting opportunities. New Jersey’s scientifically sound research and management programs ensure sustainability of the wildlife resource. The state offers deer, bear, waterfowl, small game, and wild turkey hunting. All hunters must complete a Hunter Education Course prior to hunting in New Jersey. Regulations for each type of hunt vary by season and region. The New Jersey Division of Fish & Wildlife provides detailed information about rules and regulations covering New Jersey hunting so that all hunters can
New Jersey Deer Seasons
| 4,5,6,7,8 Fall Bow | Saturday-September 10, 2022 |
| 0,2,3 Fall Bow | Saturday-October 1, 2022 |
| ALL Youth Day Archery | Saturday-September 24 – November 19, 2022 |
| 4,5,6,7,8 Permit Bow | Saturday-October 29 – December 24, 2022 |
| 4,5,6,7,8 Permit Bow | Monday-December 26 – Saturday-December 31, 2022 |
| 4,5,6,7,8 Permit Bow | Saturday-October 29 – Sunday-November 27, 2022 |
| 4,5,6,7,8 Permit Muzzleloader | Saturday-October 29 – Saturday-December 24, 2022 |
| 4,5,6,7,8 Permit Muzzleloader | Monday-December 26 – Saturday-December 31, 2022 |
| 2,3 Permit Muzzleloader | Saturday-October 29 – Sunday-November 27, 2022 |
| 0 Permit Muzzleloader | Saturday-October 29 – Saturday-November 19, 2022 |
| 7,8 Winter Bow | Sunday-January 1 – Saturday-February 18, 2023 |
| 0,2,3,4,5,6 Winter Bow | Sunday-January 1 – Tuesday-January 31, 2023 |
*New Jersey regulates some deer seasons by location. For more information on specific hunting dates in your part of the state, visit the New Jersey Division of Fish & Wildlife website.
New Jersey Wild Turkey Seasons
| Period N | Oct 29, 2022 – Nov 5, 2022 |
| Youth Turkey Hunting Day | Apr 22, 2023 |
| Period Y (ages 10–16) | Apr 22, 2022 – May 14, 2023 |
| May 15, 2023 – May 26, 2023 | |
| Period A (M–F) | Apr 24, 2023 – Apr 28, 2023 |
| Period B (M–F) | May 1, 2023 – May 5, 2023 |
| Period C (M–F) | May 8, 2023 – May 12, 2023 |
| Period D (M–F) | May 15, 2023 – May 19, 2023 |
| May 22, 2023 – May 26, 2023 | |
| Period E (Saturdays) | Apr 29, 2022 |
| May 6, 13, 20, 2023 |
*Spring turkey hunting permits are awarded on a lottery basis. You must apply for a permit between January and February to be entered into the lottery. There is no lottery for the fall season.Make sure to check the New Jersey Division of Fish & Wildlife website to know more information.
The latest turkey hunting techniques are presented at several turkey hunting seminars sponsored by Fish and Wildlife or wildlife conservation organizations. These seminars focus on how to set up, calling techniques and key safety information for turkey hunters. New turkey hunters are especially encouraged to join a seminar.
New Jersey Small Game Seasons
| Coyote | Oct. 1 – Mar. 15 |
| Pheasant & Partridge | Nov. 12 – Feb. 20 |
| Rabbit | Sept. 24 – Feb. 25 |
| Squirrel | Sept. 24 – Feb. 25 |
*Like most states, New Jersey has a variety of specific regulations depending on the animal and seasons. Make sure to check the official site for the updated information, New Jersey Division of Fish & Wildlife website.
New Jersey Crossbow Regulations
Crossbow Specific Regulations: During all other hunting seasons for all species for which the use of a bow and arrow is permitted, crossbows are permitted. The stock length of a crossbow must be at least 25 inches and the draw weight must be at least 75 pounds.
New Jersey Hunting License
To hunt in New Jersey, you must be at least 10 years of age, have completed a hunter education course or possess a resident license from NJ or other state, or be eligible for an Apprentice Hunting License. All hunters and trappers are required to have a license and openly display it in the middle of the back on outer clothing. Learn more on their official website – New Jersey Division of Fish & Wildlife website.
If you want to check out the next state on our list, click here to see New Mexico.
Or, you can check out the last state on our list, New Hampshire.
