Nebraska Hunting Seasons 2025-2026 – Dates, Regulations & Public Hunting Areas
Ready to explore some of the Midwest’s best game opportunities? Nebraska’s 2025-2026 schedule offers something for every outdoors enthusiast, whether you’re a local looking to fill the freezer or a visiting sportsman planning your next adventure. From world-class whitetail and mule deer to excellent pheasant and waterfowl action, the Cornhusker State delivers generous seasons and diverse wildlife that’ll keep you busy throughout the year.
This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about Nebraska’s upcoming game calendar – including specific dates for each species, permit requirements, tag fees, and prime areas to explore. We’ll walk through the major opportunities available, from big game draws to over-the-counter small game permits, plus share some insider tips to help make your next Nebraska expedition successful.
Whether you’re planning archery whitetail action in September or late-season waterfowl pursuits in February, having the right information ahead of time makes all the difference. Let’s dive into what Nebraska has in store for the 2025-2026 cycle.
📅 Quick Highlights
Nebraska’s diverse landscape supports an impressive variety of game species, making it one of the more hunter-friendly states in the region. The 2025-2026 schedule includes excellent opportunities for both residents and non-residents across multiple weapon types and extended time frames.
Major Species Overview:
- Deer: Four-month archery window (Sept-Dec), plus firearm and muzzleloader options
- Turkey: Dual spring/fall seasons with archery and shotgun methods
- Waterfowl: Multi-zone system with extended periods through winter
- Upland Birds: Generous pheasant and grouse seasons lasting into January
- Small Game: Year-round opportunities for many furbearer species
- Youth Opportunities: Special early seasons and reduced permit costs
The state operates on a combination system – some species require lottery draws while others offer over-the-counter permits. Most seasons feature multiple weapon types including archery, modern firearms, and muzzleloader-specific periods.
🦌 Big Game Overview
Nebraska’s big game opportunities center around excellent deer populations, with additional chances for antelope, elk, and specialized species. The state’s approach emphasizes both trophy potential and management flexibility.
| Species | Season Type | Dates | Weapon Method | Permit Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deer | Archery | Sept. 1 – Dec. 31, 2025 | Bow only | Over-the-counter |
| November Firearm | Nov. 15 – 23, 2025 | Modern gun | Draw required | |
| Muzzleloader | Dec. 1 – 31, 2025 | Muzzleloader only | Over-the-counter | |
| River Antlerless | Oct. 1 – 15, 2025 | Firearm | Private land only | |
| Late Antlerless | Jan. 1 – 15, 2026 | Firearm | Management zones | |
| Antelope | Archery | Aug. 20 – Dec. 31, 2025 | Bow only | Over-the-counter |
| Firearm | Oct. 11 – 26, 2025 | Modern gun | Draw required | |
| Muzzleloader | Sept. 20 – Oct. 5, 2025 | Muzzleloader only | Draw required | |
| Elk | Archery Bull | Sept. 1 – Oct. 31, 2025 | Bow only | Draw required |
| Firearm Bull | Sept. 21 – Oct. 31, 2025 | Modern gun | Draw required | |
| Antlerless | Aug. 1 – Jan. 31, 2026 | Various | Draw required |
The deer program offers exceptional value with multiple weapon choices and extended seasons. Archery enthusiasts get four full months of opportunity, while the November firearm period targets peak rut activity. Muzzleloader hunters enjoy a full month during December when deer movement increases with colder weather.
Nebraska’s antelope herds provide quality western game experiences, particularly in the Panhandle region. Draw odds vary by unit, but the state typically offers good success rates for patient applicants. Elk opportunities remain limited but produce trophy-class animals for successful draw winners.
🦃 Turkey Dates
Nebraska turkey populations have rebounded strongly in recent years, supporting both spring and fall seasons across multiple weapon types. The state allows up to two spring permits per hunter, creating excellent opportunities for those seeking multiple bird chances.
| Season Type | Dates | Weapon Methods | Bag Limits | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring Archery | March 25 – May 31, 2025 | Bow only | 2 permits allowed | One bird per day |
| Spring Youth | April 5 – May 31, 2025 | Shotgun/archery | Under age 16 | Reduced permit cost |
| Spring Shotgun | April 12 – May 31, 2025 | Shotgun only | 2 permits allowed | One bird per day |
| Fall Youth | Oct. 1 – Nov. 30, 2025 | Shotgun/archery | Under age 16 | Either sex birds |
| Fall General | Oct. 1 – Nov. 30, 2025 | Shotgun/archery | 1 permit only | Either sex birds |
Spring seasons focus on breeding activity when gobblers are most vocal and responsive to calling. The extended timeframe allows hunters to work birds over multiple weeks, particularly effective during peak gobbling periods in April and early May. Fall opportunities target both gobblers and hens, making family group setups and flock calling productive strategies.
All turkey harvests must be reported through the state’s Telecheck system within 24 hours. Youth hunters (age 15 and under) qualify for significantly reduced permit fees, making turkey an excellent introduction species for new hunters.
🦝 Furbearer Opportunities
Nebraska’s furbearer seasons provide year-round action for predator and small game enthusiasts. Many species offer extended seasons with minimal restrictions, creating excellent opportunities for both recreational and commercial harvest.
| Species | Season Dates | Legal Methods | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coyote | Year-round | Hunt/trap | No bag limit |
| Raccoon | Nov. 1, 2025 – Feb. 28, 2026 | Hunt/trap | Running allowed March-Aug |
| Bobcat | Dec. 1, 2025 – Feb. 28, 2026 | Hunt/trap | Running season March-Nov |
| Red Fox | Nov. 1, 2025 – Feb. 28, 2026 | Hunt/trap | Running allowed March-Oct |
| Mink/Badger | Nov. 1, 2025 – Feb. 28, 2026 | Hunt/trap | Prime pelting season |
| Beaver/Muskrat | Nov. 1, 2025 – March 31, 2026 | Trap only | Aquatic species |
| Striped Skunk | Year-round | Hunt/trap | No restrictions |
The year-round coyote season makes Nebraska attractive for predator hunters, with no bag limits and multiple weapon options. Prime pelting months (November through February) align with traditional fur harvest periods when pelts reach maximum quality and value.
Running seasons allow hound hunters to pursue certain species without harvest, providing training opportunities and sport pursuit. This creates additional recreational value beyond the traditional harvest seasons.
🐦 Small Game Section
Nebraska’s small game opportunities include excellent upland bird populations and diverse species for hunters seeking variety. The state’s agricultural landscape creates ideal habitat for pheasants, quail, and other popular small game.
| Species | Season Dates | Bag Limits | Weapon Methods |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ring-necked Pheasant | Oct. 25, 2025 – Jan. 31, 2026 | 3 daily/9 possession | Shotgun/archery |
| Quail/Partridge | Oct. 25, 2025 – Jan. 31, 2026 | 8 daily/24 possession | Shotgun/archery |
| Prairie Grouse | Sept. 1, 2025 – Jan. 31, 2026 | 2 daily/6 possession | Special permit east of US-81 |
| Cottontail Rabbit | Sept. 1, 2025 – Feb. 28, 2026 | 8 daily/24 possession | Various weapons |
| Squirrel | Aug. 1, 2025 – Jan. 31, 2026 | 6 daily/18 possession | Shotgun/archery |
| Jackrabbit | Sept. 1, 2025 – Feb. 28, 2026 | No limit | West of US-81 only |
| Youth Pheasant | Oct. 18-19, 2025 | 3 daily | Age 15 and under |
Pheasant populations remain strong in suitable habitat areas, particularly in the central and eastern agricultural regions. The extended season runs through the end of January, providing opportunities during various weather conditions and bird behavior patterns. Similar to Kansas hunting seasons, Nebraska offers generous bag limits that support both recreational and table-fare objectives.
Prairie grouse require special permits in certain management units east of Highway 81, reflecting population management needs in those areas. The early September opener coincides with excellent weather conditions and strong scent for dog work.
🦆 Complete Waterfowl Seasons
Nebraska’s waterfowl program operates through a multi-zone system that accommodates different migration patterns and habitat types across the state. The complex structure maximizes opportunity while maintaining sustainable harvest levels.
Duck & Coot Seasons
| Zone | Dates | Bag Limits |
|---|---|---|
| Zone 1 | Oct. 11 – Dec. 23, 2025 | Tier 1: 6 ducks (restrictions) |
| Zone 2 | Oct. 4 – Dec. 16, 2025 + Jan. 7-28, 2026 | Tier 2: 3 ducks (any species) |
| Zone 3 | Oct. 25, 2025 – Jan. 6, 2026 + Jan. 7-28, 2026 | Split season structure |
| Zone 4 | Oct. 25, 2025 – Jan. 6, 2026 | Standard regulations |
Goose Seasons
| Species | Zones | Dates | Daily Bag |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dark Goose | North Central | Oct. 4, 2025 – Jan. 16, 2026 | 5 daily/15 possession |
| Platte River | Oct. 28, 2025 – Feb. 9, 2026 | 5 daily/15 possession | |
| Niobrara | Oct. 28, 2025 – Feb. 9, 2026 | 5 daily/15 possession | |
| White-fronted | Statewide | Oct. 4 – Dec. 14, 2025 + Jan. 25 – Feb. 9, 2026 | 2 daily/6 possession |
| Light Goose | Statewide | Oct. 4 – Dec. 31, 2025 + Jan. 25 – Feb. 9, 2026 | 50 daily/no limit |
Special Seasons
Early Teal: September 6-14, 2025 (both High Plains and Low Plains zones)
Youth Waterfowl: Two-day weekends in late September/early October by zone
Veterans/Military: Same dates as youth seasons
Light Goose Conservation: February 10 – April 15, 2026 (extended dates, no bag limits)
The zone system reflects Nebraska’s position along the Central Flyway, with different areas experiencing peak migration at varying times. Zone 1 covers the eastern tier where early migrants concentrate, while western zones accommodate later flights and different species compositions.
Waterfowl hunters must possess both state permits and federal duck stamps. The Habitat Stamp requirement supports wetland conservation programs that benefit all waterfowl hunters. Many public areas provide excellent access, though some require additional area permits or special regulations.
🐗 Other Available Game
Beyond the major species categories, Nebraska offers several specialized opportunities that add variety to the annual game calendar. These often-overlooked species can provide excellent action during specific periods.
| Species | Season Dates | Methods | Special Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mourning Dove | Sept. 1 – Oct. 30, 2025 | Shotgun | Migratory bird license |
| Eurasian Collared-Dove | Year-round | Various | No special permits |
| Snipe | Sept. 1 – Dec. 16, 2025 | Shotgun | Migratory bird license |
| Woodcock | Oct. 4 – Nov. 17, 2025 | Shotgun | Migratory bird license |
| Rail | Sept. 1 – Nov. 9, 2025 | Shotgun | Sora and Virginia species |
| Crow | Oct. 11 – Dec. 11, 2025 + Jan. 10 – March 12, 2026 | Various | Split season |
| Prairie Dog | Year-round | Various | No bag limits |
| Porcupine | Year-round | Various | Nongame species |
Dove seasons provide excellent early-fall shooting opportunities, particularly around grain fields and water sources. The September opener coincides with peak populations before major migration events. Eurasian collared-doves offer year-round action with no bag limits, making them ideal for practice sessions and youth introduction.
Migratory bird species require additional federal licensing beyond state permits. These seasons are coordinated with federal frameworks and neighboring states to ensure proper flyway management.
🗺️ Game Units & Public Access
Nebraska divides into multiple management units for certain species, particularly big game draws and specialized permits. Understanding these zones helps with application strategy and area selection.
Key Management Areas:
- Pine Ridge Unit: Western panhandle elk and specialty species
- Niobrara Unit: North-central river corridor opportunities
- Sandhills Region: Central grassland species management
- Republican River: South-central agricultural/riparian mix
- Platte River: Critical waterfowl corridor and habitat
The state provides extensive public access through Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs), state parks, and National Forest lands. Many WMAs offer specialized habitat for specific species – such as wetland complexes for waterfowl or grassland restoration for upland birds.
Private land access remains crucial for many species, particularly in agricultural areas where landowner relationships provide premium opportunities. The state’s Open Fields and Waters program creates additional public access on enrolled private lands.
Public land maps and regulations are available through the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission website, including detailed unit boundaries for draw species and special regulations that may apply to specific areas.
🎟️ Permits, Tags & License Details
Nebraska’s licensing structure accommodates various hunter types with different fee levels and permit categories. Understanding the requirements prevents delays and ensures legal compliance.
Resident Permits (2025)
| Permit Type | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Hunt | $18 | Age 16+ required |
| Youth Hunt | Free | Age 15 and under |
| Hunt/Fish Combo | $52 | Includes all small game |
| Habitat Stamp | $25 | Required for most species |
| Waterfowl Stamp | $15 | Required for migratory birds |
Non-Resident Permits (2025)
| Permit Type | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Hunt | $109 | Basic small game access |
| 2-Day Hunt | $76 | Short-term option |
| Hunt/Fish Combo | $177 | Includes all small game |
| Habitat Stamp | $25 | Required for most species |
| Waterfowl Stamp | $15 | Required for migratory birds |
Big Game Permits
Deer Permits (Resident/Non-Resident):
- General Archery/Firearm/Muzzleloader: $37/$335
- Statewide Buck (Whitetail): $88/$750
- Statewide Buck (Either Species): $173/$995
- Youth Deer (Either Species): $8/$8
- River Antlerless: $14/$95
Antelope Permits:
- Draw Permits: $43/$241 (includes application fee)
- Archery/Doe-Fawn: $37/$235
- Youth Antelope: $8/$8
Turkey Permits:
- Annual Turkey: $30/$143
- Youth Turkey: $8/$8
Most big game permits require the base hunt license plus Habitat Stamp. Draw permits include application fees, while over-the-counter permits are available until quotas are filled. Military discounts and lifetime options provide additional savings for qualifying individuals.
❓ Nebraska Game Quick FAQ
Q: Do I need Hunter Education to purchase permits?
A: Yes, successful completion is required for hunters age 12-29. Older hunters and those with previous licenses may be exempt.
Q: Can non-residents purchase over-the-counter deer permits?
A: Yes, certain deer permits are available over-the-counter for non-residents, including general archery and muzzleloader options. Firearm permits require draws.
Q: What’s the difference between the Habitat Stamp and Waterfowl Stamp?
A: The Habitat Stamp ($25) is required for most game species and supports general wildlife habitat programs. The Waterfowl Stamp ($15) is additional and specifically required for migratory waterfowl.
Q: Are there special seasons for youth hunters?
A: Yes, youth hunters (age 15 and under) qualify for early pheasant seasons, special turkey dates, and waterfowl weekends. Most youth permits cost only $8.
Q: How do I report harvested animals?
A: Deer and antelope must be reported through Telecheck within 24 hours. Turkey harvests also require Telecheck reporting. Other species typically don’t require reporting unless specified.
Q: Can I use crossbows during archery seasons?
A: Crossbows are legal during archery seasons for hunters with disabilities and those age 65 and older. Other restrictions may apply.
Q: What public lands are available for hunting?
A: Nebraska offers Wildlife Management Areas, state parks (where allowed), National Forest lands, and private lands enrolled in access programs. Maps are available online.
🔗 Related State Resources
For hunters interested in exploring opportunities in neighboring states with similar terrain and species, consider reviewing schedules for Colorado hunting seasons which offer excellent elk and mule deer opportunities in mountain environments.
Adjacent Iowa hunting seasons provide similar agricultural-based opportunities with strong whitetail and pheasant populations that complement Nebraska’s offerings.
Conclusion
Nebraska’s 2025-2026 schedule delivers outstanding variety for hunters seeking quality opportunities at reasonable costs. The extended seasons, multiple weapon options, and diverse species create something for everyone – from the archery enthusiast chasing whitetails in September to the waterfowl hunter working late-season birds in January.
The state’s approach balances conservation needs with generous hunter opportunity, resulting in healthy populations and sustainable harvest levels. Whether you’re planning a multi-species adventure or focusing on a specific goal, Nebraska’s wildlife resources and access programs support successful outdoor experiences.
Remember to purchase permits early, particularly for popular draw species and areas. Check current regulations before each trip, as specific unit rules and access requirements can change. Most importantly, respect private property, follow all safety guidelines, and help preserve these opportunities for future generations.
The cornfields, grasslands, and wetlands of Nebraska await – start planning your next adventure today and bookmark this page for future reference as seasons and regulations are updated annually.
