North Carolina Hunting Seasons, 2023-2024
If you’re hunting in North Carolina, expect to find seasons for black bears, wild turkey and white-tailed deer. In addition, the state offers accommodating small game seasons that encompass armadillos, pheasants, quail and more.
Looking for more information on North Carolina hunting regulations, licenses and other details for a safe and legal hunting? Be sure to visit the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission website.
North Carolina Black Bear Seasons
| General Season | Oct. 16-Jan. 1** |
**Season dates vary by zone. Visit the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission website for specific county dates. It is illegal to take cubs (less than 75 pounds) or female bears with cubs. Nonresidents must obtain a bear hunting license prior to hunting.
North Carolina Deer Seasons
| Urban Archery | Jan. 13-Feb. 18 |
| Archery | Sept. 9-Dec. 11** |
| Muzzleloader/Blackpowder | Oct. 1-Nov. 3** |
| Firearms | Oct. 14-Jan. 1** |
**Season dates vary by zone. Urban archery deer seasons are open in only specific cities. For more information on specific season start and end dates in your area, visit the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission website.
North Carolina Wild Turkey Seasons
| Spring Youth Season | April 12-May 11 |
| Spring General Season | April 6-12 |
North Carolina Small Game Seasons
| Raccoon and Opossum | Oct. 16-Feb. 29 |
| Squirrel | Oct. 16-Feb. 29 |
| Rabbit | Oct. 16-Feb. 29 |
| Quail | Nov. 18-Feb. 29 |
| Grouse | Oct. 16-Feb. 29 |
| Bobcat | Oct. 16-Feb. 29 |
| Pheasant | Nov. 18-Feb. 1 |
| Armadillo | Open Season |
**Season dates vary by zone. Some areas of North Carolina limit hunting to particular dates.
Bag limits, special seasons and hunting regulations for North Carolina hunting seasons do vary based on animal and seasons. For more information on obtaining licenses, permits and regulations, visit the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission website.