Hunt Hawaii: 2025-2026 Season Dates, Licenses & Big Game Opportunities
Welcome to your complete guide to the Hawaii game calendar for the 2025-2026 schedule! Whether you’re a local outdoor enthusiast or visiting sportsman planning your next adventure, this comprehensive resource covers everything you need to know about hunting opportunities across the Hawaiian Islands. From permit requirements to wildlife areas, we’ve got you covered with the latest dates, regulations, and essential information to make your next hunt successful.
The Aloha State offers unique hunting experiences you won’t find anywhere else in the United States. With exotic game species like axis deer, mouflon sheep, and wild boar roaming diverse landscapes from tropical rainforests to volcanic slopes, Hawaii presents both challenges and rewards for hunters of all skill levels. Let’s dive into what makes this season special and how you can get started.
📅 Quick Highlights
Here’s your at-a-glance overview of Hawaii’s major game opportunities for the 2025-2026 season:
Big Game Highlights:
- Feral pigs available year-round on public lands with weekend access
- Axis deer archery permits available on multiple islands
- Mouflon sheep tags on Lanai (lottery system)
- Turkey season runs March 1 – April 15, 2026
Important Dates:
- License sales begin June 15, 2025
- Spring turkey opens March 1, 2026
- Game bird calendar spans November through January
Key Requirements:
- Valid Hawaii hunting license mandatory for all hunters
- Special tags required for specific species and areas
- Hunter check-in/check-out using OuterSpatial app recommended
The DLNR Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW) manages all game activities across the state, ensuring sustainable wildlife populations while providing recreation opportunities. Unlike many mainland states, Hawaii’s tropical climate allows for extended schedules throughout the year.
Big Game Overview
Hawaii’s big game opportunities center around several exotic species that have established populations across the islands. Each species requires specific permits and follows unique regulations.
| Species | Method | Season Dates | Islands | Special Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Feral Pig | Archery/Rifle | Year-round weekends | All islands | Unit-specific permits |
| Axis Deer | Archery | July 1 – December 31, 2025 | Kauai, Lanai, Molokai | Daily bag limit varies |
| Black-tailed Deer | Muzzleloader | September 6-7, 2025 | Kauai | Lottery tag required |
| Mouflon Sheep | Multiple | Various by unit | Lanai, Hawaii Island | Lottery system |
| Feral Goat | Archery/Rifle | Year-round | Kauai, Maui, Hawaii | Unit permits required |
Archery Opportunities are extensive throughout the islands, with many areas designated specifically for bow hunters. Hawaii Island’s Puuanahulu and Puuwaawaa areas offer excellent sheep hunting with both archery and muzzleloader options.
Muzzleloader seasons provide unique opportunities, particularly for deer on Kauai and sheep on Hawaii Island. These primitive weapon schedules often coincide with cooler weather periods, making for more comfortable hunting conditions.
Rifle hunting is more limited but available for certain species and areas. Most public land hunting focuses on archery and muzzleloader methods to ensure safety in Hawaii’s often dense terrain.
Turkey Dates
The 2026 spring bearded turkey schedule on Hawaii Island runs from March 1 through April 15, offering 46 days of pursuing these challenging birds.
| Hunt Type | Dates | Islands | Tag Fee (Resident/Non-Resident) | Bag Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring Bearded Turkey | March 1 – April 15, 2026 | Hawaii Island | $5.00 / $20.00 | 1 bearded bird |
| Youth Turkey | Special dates TBA | Hawaii Island | $5.00 / $20.00 | 1 bearded bird |
Turkey populations on Hawaii Island have established themselves in various elevations and habitat types. Success rates vary significantly based on weather conditions and hunting pressure. The spring gobbling period typically peaks in March, making early season dates particularly productive.
Hunters should note that only bearded turkeys may be harvested, and proper identification is crucial. The terrain can be challenging, ranging from dense ohia forests to open grasslands, requiring versatility in hunting approaches.
Furbearer Opportunities
Hawaii’s furbearer hunting is quite limited compared to mainland states, primarily due to the islands’ unique ecosystem and wildlife management priorities.
| Species | Season | Methods | License Required | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Feral Cat | Year-round | Various | Hunting license | Crop damage permits available |
| Small Mammals | Varies by island | Trapping permitted | Standard license | Check local regulations |
Most furbearer control in Hawaii focuses on protecting native species rather than traditional hunting opportunities. If you’re interested in this type of hunting, similar opportunities can be found in Alaska’s hunting seasons which offer extensive trapping opportunities.
Small Game Section
Small game hunting in Hawaii differs significantly from continental United States due to the absence of many traditional species and the presence of introduced birds.
| Species | Season Dates | Daily Bag Limit | Methods | Islands Available |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ring-necked Pheasant | First Saturday in November – January 26, 2025 | 2 birds | Shotgun/Archery | Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Hawaii |
| California Quail | First Saturday in November – January 26, 2025 | 8 birds | Shotgun/Archery | All islands |
| Chukar Partridge | First Saturday in November – January 26, 2025 | 6 birds | Shotgun/Archery | Hawaii Island primarily |
| Francolin | First Saturday in November – January 26, 2025 | 4 birds | Shotgun/Archery | All islands |
The game bird calendar in Hawaii runs from early November through late January, taking advantage of cooler weather when birds are more active. These introduced species have adapted well to Hawaii’s diverse habitats, from dry grasslands to forest edges.
Pheasant hunting can be particularly rewarding on Kauai and the Big Island, where populations remain stable. Quail hunting offers fast-paced action, especially during early morning and late afternoon periods.
Complete Waterfowl Seasons
Waterfowl hunting in Hawaii is limited due to the tropical climate and habitat preferences of migratory birds.
| Species | Season Dates | Daily Bag | Possession Limit | Special Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hawaiian Coot | Closed | – | – | Federally protected |
| Hawaiian Duck | Closed | – | – | Federally protected |
| Migratory Ducks | Limited seasons vary | Check federal regulations | Varies | Federal stamps required |
Most traditional waterfowl species found on the mainland are either absent from Hawaii or protected under federal legislation. Hunters interested in waterfowl opportunities might consider California’s hunting seasons which offer extensive waterfowl programs.
The tropical climate and limited freshwater habitat make Hawaii less suitable for most waterfowl species. Native waterbirds are strictly protected, and hunting them is prohibited.
Other Available Game
Hawaii offers several unique hunting opportunities not found elsewhere in the United States.
| Species | Season | Methods | Location | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wild Cattle | Permit only | Rifle | Private lands | Crop damage control primarily |
| Brush-tailed Rock-wallaby | Closed | – | – | Population management only |
| European Rabbit | Year-round | Various | Private lands | Landowner permission required |
Feral cattle hunting occurs primarily through damage control permits rather than recreational opportunities. These animals can be dangerous and require experienced hunters with appropriate equipment.
Some islands have small populations of other introduced mammals, but hunting opportunities are limited and often restricted to population control rather than recreation.
Hunting Zones
Hawaii’s public hunting areas are organized by island and designated with letter codes. Each unit has specific regulations, access requirements, and permitted species.
Major Hunting Areas by Island:
Kauai Island: Units A through L, including Puu Ka Pele Forest Reserve and Kokee State Park areas
Oahu Island: Units A through G, primarily in forest reserves and watershed areas
Molokai Island: Units A through E within the Molokai Forest Reserve system
Lanai Island: Cooperative Game Management Area with numbered units
Maui Island: Units A through F covering various forest reserves
Hawaii Island: Units A through K, including Mauna Kea Forest Reserve and Puuanahulu Game Management Area
Access to many areas requires advance registration through the OuterSpatial mobile app. Some units have limited hunter numbers and may require lottery selection. Always check current access requirements before planning your trip.
Public hunting areas are generally open only on weekends and state holidays, with specific dates varying by unit and season. Private land hunting requires landowner permission and may have different regulations.
Permits, Tags & Licenses Details
Understanding Hawaii’s licensing system is crucial for legal hunting. The state uses a combination of basic licenses, special stamps, and individual tags.
| License Type | Resident Fee | Non-Resident Fee | Validity Period | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Hunting License | $10.00 | $95.00 | July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026 | Includes Wildlife Conservation Stamp |
| Game Bird Stamp | $10.00 | $10.00 | Same as license | Required for all bird hunting |
| Youth License (under 16) | $10.00 | $95.00 | Same as license | Adult supervision required |
| Senior License (65+) | Free | Reduced fee | Same as license | Hawaii residents only |
| Military License | $10.00 | $10.00 | Same as license | Valid military ID required |
Special Tags and Permits:
- Turkey Tag: $5.00 (resident) / $20.00 (non-resident)
- Sheep Tags: $10.00 (resident) / $25.00 (non-resident)
- Deer Permits: $5.00 (resident) / $25.00 (non-resident)
- Unit-specific permits vary by location and species
Licenses can be purchased online through the official Hawaii e-government portal or at authorized vendors throughout the islands. Online purchasing is recommended for convenience and immediate availability.
The OuterSpatial mobile app is essential for check-in and check-out procedures in most public hunting areas. Download and set up the app before your hunt, as cellular service may be limited in remote areas.
Hawaii Hunting Quick FAQ
Q: Can I hunt year-round in Hawaii?
A: Some species like feral pigs and goats can be hunted year-round on private land with permission, but public land hunting follows specific weekend schedules and requires appropriate permits.
Q: Do I need hunter education to hunt in Hawaii?
A: Yes, all hunters must complete hunter education or provide proof of completion from another state. Hawaii accepts hunter education certificates from all other states.
Q: What’s the best time to visit Hawaii for hunting?
A: November through March offers the best weather conditions and coincides with game bird seasons. Spring turkey season in March-April is also popular among visiting hunters.
Q: Can I bring my own firearms to Hawaii?
A: Yes, but you must register firearms with local authorities immediately upon arrival. Check with your airline and local law enforcement for current requirements and procedures.
Q: Are there guided hunting services available?
A: Several outfitters offer guided hunts, particularly for big game species. This can be especially valuable for first-time visitors unfamiliar with local terrain and regulations.
Q: What should I do if I harvest game on public land?
A: You must check out through the OuterSpatial app or at designated check stations. Proper documentation is required, and some areas have specific reporting requirements.
Q: Can I hunt on multiple islands with one license?
A: Yes, your Hawaii hunting license is valid statewide, but you’ll need specific permits or tags for different areas and species on each island.
🔗 List of Related Guides (External Important Links)
For complete regulations and current updates:
- Hawaii DLNR Hunting Homepage
- Go Hunt Hawaii Tag Purchase Portal
- Hawaii Game Mammal Regulations (HAR 123)
- Hawaii Game Bird Regulations (HAR 122)
- OuterSpatial Mobile App Information
Conclusion
Hawaii’s 2025-2026 hunting schedule offers unique opportunities you won’t find anywhere else in the United States. From pursuing axis deer in tropical valleys to calling turkeys in volcanic forests, the Aloha State provides memorable experiences for hunters willing to adapt to its distinctive challenges and regulations.
Remember that licenses become available June 15, 2025, and popular tags like Lanai mouflon sheep fill up quickly through lottery systems. Plan ahead, especially if you’re traveling from the mainland, as some areas have limited access and specific timing requirements.
The key to successful hunting in Hawaii lies in understanding the regulations, respecting the land and its people, and embracing the unique aspects of island hunting. Whether you’re pursuing your first axis deer or adding a Hawaiian turkey to your collection, proper preparation and respect for local customs will enhance your experience.
Always double-check current regulations before your hunt, as conditions and requirements can change. The DLNR website and OuterSpatial app provide the most current information. Book your accommodations early, secure your permits in advance, and prepare for an adventure unlike any other hunting experience in America.
Don’t forget to bookmark this page for yearly updates, and consider it your go-to resource for planning future Hawaiian hunting adventures. The islands’ diverse ecosystems and unique game species make every trip a learning experience and every successful harvest a story worth sharing.
