Hunting Deer in North Carolina

The NC Willife Commission regulates hunting in the state.

Established in 1947, the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission regulates hunting in North Carolina. Deer are considered big game in North Carolina, and hunters flock to the area during hunting season.

Licenses

Anyone over age 16 is required to have a license to hunt in North Carolina. In order to obtain a license, you must show proof of having completed a hunter safety course. Licenses are available for residents and nonresidents, and vary from short-term to lifetime. Hunters with licenses in one of several neighboring states can obtain reduced-price licenses to hunt in North Carolina.

Seasons

Deer season is broken down by the four regions of the state and method of hunting. The season typically runs from September to December with specific dates for bow-and-arrow, muzzle-loader and gun hunting.

Regulations

There are many regulations in place to protect hunters and ensure that the deer population is controlled but not decimated. While regulations vary by season and county, there are several statewide regulations: Deer hunting is not allowed on Sundays with the exception of bow-and-arrow hunting in season on private lands. Bag limits are in effect across the state and vary depending on the sex and age of the deer. All hunters must submit harvest report cards to the Wildlife Commission.

References

• NC Wildlife Commission: Licenses
• NC Wildlife Commission: Seasons