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Hunting Season 2025: Where to Go for Big Game, Upland, and Waterfowl
Aug
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Hunting season 2025 is set to deliver thrilling experiences across the United States, with diverse landscapes catering to hunters pursuing big game, upland birds, and waterfowl. At Dirty Bird Guns and Ammo, we know that choosing the right state can transform your hunt into a memorable adventure. Whether you’re stalking elk in rugged mountains, flushing pheasants across golden prairies, or calling ducks in misty wetlands, the top states for 2025 offer abundant game, accessible public lands, and rich hunting traditions.
Below, we’ve selected the top five states for big game, upland, and waterfowl hunting based on species diversity, public land availability, and hunter-friendly environments. Here’s where to plan your 2025 hunting season.
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Big Game Hunting: Top States for Hunting Season 2025
Big game hunting, targeting elk, moose, deer, and bear, requires vast terrains, healthy populations, and open access. These states stand out in 2025 for their trophy potential, diverse species, and public land opportunities.
Alaska
Alaska is a big game hunter’s paradise, with millions of acres of public land hosting massive moose, grizzly and brown bears, caribou, Dall sheep, and elk. The state’s pristine wilderness demands preparation, often involving float planes or boats to reach remote areas, but delivers trophy-class animals and unparalleled experiences. In 2025, expect stable moose and caribou populations, with grizzly hunts offering high success in regions like the Alaska Peninsula. Hunters need a state license and must navigate specific regulations, but the sheer variety makes Alaska a must-visit.
Colorado
Colorado boasts North America’s largest elk herd, alongside thriving mule deer, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and black bears. Extensive National Forest and Bureau of Land Management lands provide excellent public access. The high country is ideal for elk, while the eastern plains yield impressive mule deer and whitetails. Over-the-counter elk tags and a supportive wildlife agency make Colorado accessible, though non-residents may face competitive draws for premium units. In 2025, anticipate strong elk numbers and growing moose populations, particularly in the northwest.
Wyoming
Wyoming’s expansive public lands support robust elk, antelope, moose, bighorn sheep, and mule deer populations. With relatively low hunter density, there’s ample space for both residents and non-residents. The state’s varied habitats, from mountains to plains, cater to multiple species, though non-residents may need guides for federal wilderness areas. In 2025, elk and antelope hunts are expected to be exceptional, with generous tag allocations in many units. Check the Wyoming Game and Fish Department for draw details and regulations.
Montana
Montana’s vast public lands and strong hunting culture make it a big game haven. Elk, moose, black bears, and deer thrive in the western mountains, while the eastern prairies host whitetails and antelope. The state’s low population and open spaces provide room to roam. For 2025, elk populations remain strong, and controlled hunts for moose and bighorn sheep offer trophy potential. Hunters should review Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks for licensing and season dates, as regulations can be intricate.
Arizona
Arizona’s mild climate and extensive public lands support large elk, mule deer, desert bighorn sheep, and pronghorn. The lack of harsh winters allows animals to grow larger, attracting trophy hunters. In 2025, elk and pronghorn populations should remain strong, with competitive tag draws for premium units. The diverse terrain, from deserts to mountains, offers varied hunting experiences. Hunters need an Arizona hunting license and should check draw deadlines early to secure opportunities.
Upland Hunting: Top States for Hunting Season 2025
Upland hunting, targeting birds like pheasants, quail, and grouse, thrives in states with diverse habitats and accessible lands. These states excel in 2025 for their abundant bird populations and prime hunting grounds for wing shooters.
South Dakota
Known as the pheasant capital of the world, South Dakota is a top pick for upland hunters. Its vast public lands and Walk-In Hunting Access programs provide access to millions of acres teeming with pheasants, prairie chickens, and sharp-tailed grouse. The 2025 season, running from October to January, should see strong bird numbers, particularly in the central and eastern regions. Non-residents need a small game license, and the state’s hunter-friendly policies make planning a trip straightforward.
Kansas
Kansas offers extensive public land through Wildlife Areas and Walk-In Hunting Access programs, hosting abundant pheasants, bobwhite quail, and prairie chickens. The Flint Hills and western plains are prime spots, with peak season from November to January. In 2025, pheasant populations are expected to rebound due to favorable weather, making Kansas a top choice. A Kansas hunting license and specific permits for Wildlife Areas are required, so check regulations early.
Montana
Montana’s open prairies and agricultural lands are ideal for pheasants, sharp-tailed grouse, and Hungarian partridge. With millions of acres of public land, hunters have ample space to pursue birds from fall to January. Hunting season 2025 should benefit from stable bird populations, especially in the eastern regions. A Montana upland game bird license and conservation license are needed, available through Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks.
Nebraska
Nebraska’s southwest and Panhandle regions are hotspots for pheasants, bobwhite quail, and prairie chickens. Public hunting areas and Walk-In Hunting Access programs provide excellent access, with the season running from October to January. For Hunting Season 2025, expect healthy bird numbers due to improved habitat conditions. Hunters need a Nebraska upland game bird permit and habitat stamp, with details on the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission website.
North Dakota
North Dakota’s southwest region is renowned for pheasants, sharp-tailed grouse, and Hungarian partridge. With lengthy hunting hours, from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset, hunters have flexibility. Public lands and private access programs ensure ample opportunities. The 2025 season should see strong bird populations, particularly for pheasants. A North Dakota combination license and small game license are required for upland hunting.
Waterfowl Hunting: Top States for Hunting Season 2025
Waterfowl hunting, targeting ducks and geese, demands wetlands, flyways, and generous seasons. These states shine in 2025 for their waterfowl abundance and accessible hunting areas.
Louisiana
Louisiana’s coastal marshes and rice fields along the Mississippi Flyway make it a waterfowl paradise. Ducks like mallards, teal, and gadwall, plus snow and Canada geese, thrive here. The 2025 season, typically November to January, benefits from long seasons and accessible public lands like the Wax Lake Delta and Wildlife Management Areas. Hunters need a Louisiana hunting license and a federal duck stamp.
Arkansas
Arkansas’s flooded timber and rice fields in the Mississippi Flyway are legendary for mallards, pintails, and geese. Stuttgart, dubbed the Duck Capital of the World, draws hunters to public Wildlife Management Areas like Bayou Meto. The 2025 season, running from November to January, should see strong duck numbers. An Arkansas hunting license, state waterfowl stamp, and federal duck stamp are required.
Minnesota
Minnesota’s lakes, marshes, and Chippewa National Forest host abundant ducks, including mallards and wood ducks, plus Canada geese. The 2025 season, typically September to December, offers long hunting periods and diverse habitats. Hunters need a Minnesota small game license and federal duck stamp, with special permits for certain areas.
Kansas
Kansas’s Cheyenne Bottoms and surrounding wetlands in the Central Flyway are renowned for mallards, pintails, and geese. Public lands and Walk-In Hunting Access programs provide excellent access. The 2025 season, running from October to January, should see robust waterfowl populations due to improved wetland conditions. A Kansas hunting license and federal duck stamp are mandatory, with additional permits for some areas.
North Carolina
North Carolina’s public lands, including Pamlico Sound along the Atlantic Flyway, support plentiful ducks like wood ducks and teal, plus geese. The 2025 season, typically November to January, offers flexibility with a six-month hunting window. Hunters need a North Carolina hunting license and federal duck stamp.
Planning for Hunting Season 2025
The top states for Hunting Season 2025: Alaska, Colorado, Wyoming, Montana, and Arizona for big game; South Dakota, Kansas, Montana, Nebraska, and North Dakota for upland; and Louisiana, Arkansas, Minnesota, Kansas, and North Carolina for waterfowl…offer unmatched hunting opportunities. Each combines abundant game, accessible public lands, and unique hunting experiences. Before heading out, secure the necessary licenses, stamps, and permits, and review state-specific regulations through Fish and Wildlife websites. With firearms and accessories from Dirty Bird Guns and Ammo, you’ll be ready to make the 2025 hunting season your best yet, whether you’re in rugged mountains or misty marshes.
Don’t Live in These States? Hunt Local and Gear Up with Dirty Bird
If you’re not located in one of these top hunting states, don’t let that dampen your hunting season 2025. Every region of the U.S. offers unique hunting opportunities, from local whitetails and turkeys to nearby game birds and waterfowl. Explore your state’s public lands, Wildlife Management Areas, or private access programs to find the best spots close to home. Connect with local hunting communities or your state’s Fish and Wildlife agency to discover hidden gems and seasonal prospects. No matter where you are, the outdoors is calling—get out, enjoy the thrill of the hunt, and trust Dirty Bird Guns and Ammo to supply the optics, firearms, and gear you need to make every outing a success.