If you're a Rhode Island resident, or are just visiting for the hunting season, it's important to know the licensing and regulations that apply to hunting in the state.

In this blog post, we will outline all of the information you need to know in order to stay safe and within the law while hunting in Rhode Island. We'll also provide a brief overview of the different hunting seasons that are open during the year.

Hunting In Rhode Island

Although Rhode Island is a small state, it is not without hunting opportunities. During various hunting seasons, including deer and turkey, this eastern corridor state offers plenty of animals to bag. In this small state, small game seasons are also plentiful.

Hunting restrictions, licenses, and permits vary by state, and hunting season dates may alter depending on where you live. Visit the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management website for further information on how to ensure a legal hunt.

Rhode Island Deer Seasons

Archery/Crossbow Sept. 11-Jan. 31**
Muzzleloader Oct. 30-Jan. 2**
Firearms Dec. 4-Jan. 2**

**Season dates vary by zone. For more information about hunting in your specific region, visit the Rhode Island Fish & Wildlife Department website.

Rhode Island Turkey Seasons

Fall Archery Oct. 1-31
Youth Apr. 18-24, 2021
Paraplegic Apr. 23-24, 2021
Spring General Season Apr. 28-May 22**

Rhode Island Small Game Seasons

Coyote State Land: Sept. 15-Feb. 28 and Apr. 28-May 22
Private Land: Open Season
Raccoon Oct. 1-Feb. 28
Pheasant Oct. 16-Feb. 28
Cottontail Rabbit Oct. 16-Feb. 28
Gray Squirrel Oct. 16-Feb. 28
Bobwhite Quail Oct. 16-Feb. 28
Red, Gray Fox Oct. 16-Feb. 28
Ruffed Grouse Closed Season

How To Get A Hunting License In Rhode Island?

Depending on your age, you may be required to have the Hunter Education Certificate in order to legally buy a license or permit to hunt.

  1. Complete the Rhode Island hunter education certification requirements.
  2. Choose the correct license type.
  3. Buy the license through the Rhode Island Division of Fish & Wildlife office or a Rhode Island–approved vendor.

Rhode Island License Expiration

Hunting licenses expire on the last day of February each year.

Where to Buy a Rhode Island Hunting License

  • Visit the Rhode Island Division of Fish & Wildlife office, a city or town hall, or an approved license vendor.
  • Mail in a paper application.

Bag limits, special seasons and hunting regulations for Rhode Island hunting seasons do vary based on animal and seasons. For more information on obtaining licenses, permits and regulations, visit the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management website.

Other Northeast States Hunting Seasons

Connecticut Hunting Seasons
Delaware Hunting Seasons
Maine Hunting Seasons
Maryland Hunting Seasons
Massachusetts Hunting Seasons
New Hampshire Hunting Seasons
New Jersey Hunting Seasons
New York Hunting Seasons
Pennsylvania Hunting Seasons
Rhode Island Hunting Seasons

Vermont Hunting Seasons

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