2021-2022 Wildlife Rules Proposals

Wildlife biologists review data from New Hampshire's hunting seasons every year to monitor the status of game species. The Department revises its rules every two years, unless otherwise necessary. Changes are recommended to ensure that season dates, bag limits, and permit issuances are in line with wildlife population goals and objectives outlined in the state's ten-year Game Management Plan. While the Game Management Plan outlines long-term management goals, the Department uses the rule-making process to adjust seasons and affect changes to wildlife populations to meet these long-range objectives. Proposed revisions to rules are based on a scientific review of harvest data, field observations, research findings, and input from the public.

This page features species-specific information on proposed rule changes for the 2021-2022 seasons, the full text language of all proposed rule changes, and supplemental information such as the 2016-2025 Game Management Plan, and links to Wildlife Harvest Summaries and other supporting information. Updates will be added periodically with important information regarding how to participate in virtual public hearings on the 2021-2022 wildlife rules. Please check back often for new information.

Two remote public hearings will be conducted: Friday, March 26 at 10:00 a.m. and Tuesday, March 30 at 6:30 p.m. These hearings will provide people with an opportunity to make comments on and suggested changes to hunting and trapping rules, wildlife management strategies, and other NH Fish and Game Department functions. The public may submit comments now through April 6, 2021. Comments can be emailed to comments@wildlife.nh.gov (using the subject line "Comments on 2021-22 Wildlife Rules Proposals"), mailed to Executive Director, N.H. Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301, or faxed to (603) 271-5829.