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HUNTING SEASONS IN NEW BRUNSWICK, CANADA 2025–26: Big Game and Small Game, Licenses, and Regulations Guide
Plan your 2025–26 New Brunswick hunt with our province‑by‑province guide—season dates, bag limits, licenses, bow & rifle rules, and key game species: Whitetail deer, Moose, Ducks and more.
New Brunswick’s mixed Acadian forests, river valleys and coastal marshes support thriving whitetail deer herds, healthy moose populations and abundant migratory waterfowl staging areas. From the Miramichi Highlands to the Bay of Fundy shorelines, hunters pursue archery and rifle deer seasons, limited moose tag draws and spring/fall duck hunts—guided by clear provincial regulations across 14 Wildlife Management Zones (WMZs).
Enjoy precise season dates, bag limits and zone‑specific requirements to plan an ethical, compliant hunt in New Brunswick for 2025–26.
What Is There to Hunt in New Brunswick?
Big Game: Whitetail deer, moose, black bear
Small Game & Upland Birds: Ruffed grouse, spruce grouse, snowshoe hare, wild turkey
Waterfowl & Migratory Birds: Ducks, geese, swans, mourning dove (federal permit required)
Furbearers & Predators: Coyote, fox, beaver, muskrat
New Brunswick’s variety of forests and wetlands delivers year‑round opportunity—from spring bear and turkey to late‑fall waterfowl.
What Animals Can You Hunt Year‑Round in New Brunswick?
Unprotected predators (coyote, fox) may be taken any time on private land with landowner permission. Public‑land predator control outside open seasons requires a Fur Hunting Licence and must follow WMZ restrictions.
New Brunswick Big Game Hunting Seasons 2025–26
Whitetail Deer
Archery: Sep 1 – Oct 15
Rifle/Muzzleloader: Oct 12 – Dec 7
Tags: One tag per licence; antler restrictions apply in WMZ 3–7 (spike‑only in early rifle period)
Moose
Archery: Sep 15 – Oct 31
Rifle: Oct 10 – Oct 31
Tags: Draw only; allocated by WMZ; applications open July 15 – 31, 2025
Black Bear
Spring: Apr 1 – Jun 15
Fall: Sep 1 – Oct 31
Tags: One per hunter; cub harvest prohibited; no hounds in WMZ 1–4
Note: Detailed WMZ calendars, quotas and weapon‑type restrictions are published annually online.
New Brunswick Small Game & Waterfowl Seasons 2025–26
Upland Birds & Small Game:
Ruffed/Spruce Grouse: Sep 1 – Dec 31 (daily limit 5)
Snowshoe Hare: Sep 1 – Mar 31 (daily limit 3)
Wild Turkey: Apr 1 – May 15; Sep 1 – Dec 31 (daily limit 1; spring draw)
Waterfowl & Migratory Birds:
Ducks & Geese: Sep 1 – Dec 31; Jan 1 – Jan 15 (daily limit 5 ducks; 5 geese)
Mourning Dove: Sep 1 – Nov 30 (daily limit 15)
Requirements: Federal Migratory Game Bird Permit & Canadian Wildlife Habitat Conservation Stamp
Bag Limits by Species
Whitetail Deer: 1 per season
Moose: 1 per draw tag
Black Bear: 1 per season (no cubs)
Wild Turkey: 1 per licence period
Grouse (all spp.): 5 daily; possession 10
Snowshoe Hare: 3 daily; possession 6
Ducks/Geese: 5 daily; possession 15
Mourning Dove: 15 daily; possession 45
Coyote/Fox: no limit private; Fur Hunting Licence required public
License & Tags Information for New Brunswick Hunters (2025–26)
Resident Licence: $34 (annual); includes one deer tag; additional tags $12/species
Non‑Resident Licence: $160 (annual); tags $45/species; moose draw fee $20
Additional Permits:
Fur Hunting Licence (free; required)
Spring Turkey draw (applications Mar 1 – 15, 2025)
Hunter Education: Mandatory New Brunswick Hunter Education Certificate or equivalent.
Hunting Methods: Bow, Rifle, Muzzleloader
Bow: Compound, recurve, longbow; crossbows allowed only with special permit; broadhead cut ≥ 7/8″.
Rifle: Centrefire ≥ .24 cal; shotguns with slugs permitted; straight‑wall handguns prohibited.
Muzzleloader: .40 cal+ patched ball or conical bullet; approved ignition systems only; single‑projectile conversions.
Regulations & Resources
Shooting Hours: ½ hour before sunrise to ½ hour after sunset
WMZ Maps & Calendars: Available from New Brunswick Department of Natural Resources and Energy Development
Harvest Reporting: Mandatory within 24 hours via online portal or phone
Special Areas: Certain wildlife management and protected areas require additional access permits
Before you head out, always verify season dates, bag limits, and licence requirements on the official New Brunswick Department of Natural Resources and Energy Development website to stay compliant and ensure a legal, ethical hunt.
This guide was created based on information from New Brunswick Department of Natural Resources and Energy Development: https://www2.gnb.ca/content/gnb/en/departments/erd/natural_resources/content/hunting.html
Equipped with exact season windows, zone‑specific bag limits and complete licence details, you’re ready to plan your 2025–26 New Brunswick hunt. Prepare thoroughly and enjoy the province’s rich hunting heritage.
Hunting in the RIDING MOUNTAIN Region: Hunting Seasons of the Area, Laws, Geographical characteristics, Demographics, Associations and Clubs
The Riding Mountain region of Manitoba, Canada, is a haven for hunters seeking adventure and connection with nature. Nestled within the Prairie Mountain region, this area offers diverse landscapes, abundant wildlife, and rich traditions that make it one of the most sought-after hunting destinations in North America. Whether you're an experienced hunter or new to the sport, understanding the unique features of this region will enhance your experience.
Geographical and Natural Features from a Hunter’s Perspective
Riding Mountain National Park spans 2,969 square kilometers of rolling hills, forests, grasslands, and wetlands. This varied terrain creates ideal habitats for numerous game species. The park's elevation contrasts sharply with the surrounding prairies, offering breathtaking views while providing excellent vantage points for spotting wildlife. Cooler temperatures during fall increase animal activity, making it prime time for hunting trips. However, keep in mind that hunting is prohibited inside the national park itself, so focus on areas just outside its boundaries where opportunities abound.
Demographics of Hunters in the Region
While exact figures on the number of hunters visiting the Riding Mountain region are not readily available, the proximity of major cities like Winnipeg (3.5 hours east) and Brandon (1 hour south) ensures a steady influx of local enthusiasts. Additionally, international hunters often travel here due to the region's reputation for trophy elk and whitetail deer. The demographic skews toward middle-aged men, but women and younger hunters are increasingly participating thanks to outreach programs by provincial organizations.
Hunting Characteristics Unique to Riding Mountain
What sets this region apart is its blend of open prairie and dense forest, allowing hunters to adapt their strategies based on terrain and target species. For example, stalking through wooded areas requires stealth, whereas glassing across open fields demands patience and keen observation skills. Wildlife management practices ensure healthy populations of big game, waterfowl, and small mammals, giving hunters a wide range of options.
Types of Hunting and Game Animals in the Region
Big Game: Elk and whitetail deer are the stars of the show. Elk rutting season in the fall draws many hunters hoping to witness dramatic displays of dominance among bulls. Moose can also be found in limited numbers.
Small Game: Grouse, partridge, and squirrels provide exciting challenges for those who prefer smaller quarry.
Waterfowl: Ducks and geese frequent the region's lakes and marshes, attracting migratory bird hunters.
Predator Hunts: Coyotes and cougars are occasionally targeted, though safety precautions must always be followed.
Hunting Seasons in the Region
Seasons vary depending on the species, but elk hunting typically runs from late August to late February, with extensions sometimes granted if population control measures are needed. Whitetail deer seasons usually occur in November and December, coinciding with rutting activity. Waterfowl seasons align with migration patterns, generally spanning September to early December. Always check Manitoba’s official hunting regulations for specific dates and bag limits before planning your trip.
Associations and Clubs Supporting Hunters
Local groups such as the Manitoba Wildlife Federation advocate for sustainable hunting practices and offer resources for members. These organizations host events, workshops, and youth mentorship programs to foster responsible stewardship of natural resources. Joining a club provides access to private lands, networking opportunities, and shared knowledge about the best spots to hunt.
Legislation Governing Hunting in the Region
Manitoba enforces strict rules to protect both hunters and wildlife. Licenses are mandatory for all hunters, and tags are required for big game. Non-residents must apply for permits well in advance due to high demand. Ethical hunting practices, including fair chase principles, are emphasized. Violations carry hefty fines, underscoring the importance of compliance. Remember, hunting is strictly forbidden within Riding Mountain National Park, so stick to designated areas.
Traditions Rooted in Hunting Culture
For generations, Indigenous peoples have revered the land around Riding Mountain as sacred hunting grounds. Today, modern hunters honor these roots by practicing conservation-minded techniques. Annual events celebrate the harvest, bringing together families and friends to share stories and meals prepared from wild game. Respect for the environment and gratitude for the bounty remain central themes.
Interesting Facts About Hunting in the Region
In 2004, the elk hunting season was extended by three weeks to manage overpopulation concerns.
Cougars, though elusive, have been spotted more frequently in recent years, adding intrigue for predator hunters.
Fall foliage enhances the beauty of the landscape, creating stunning backdrops for memorable hunts.
Hunting in the Riding Mountain region combines thrilling pursuits with awe-inspiring scenery. So pack your gear, grab your license, and head to Manitoba—where adventure awaits amidst the prairies and mountains!
