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Planning Updated Jan 29, 2026

Rhode Island Hunting Season Dates

Complete hunting calendar for Rhode Island including deer, elk, turkey, and more.

Rhode Island Hunting Season Calendar

Find all hunting season dates for Rhode Island including deer, elk, turkey, and waterfowl. Filter by species and hunting method.

RI regulations 2 species Split seasons shown Zone info included
RI

Coming Up in Rhode Island

Seasons opening in the next 60 days

Turkey Any Legal Method

Apr 26 - May 25, 2026

Opens in 54 days

Complete Season Calendar

All Rhode Island hunting seasons organized by species

Deer 3 seasons

Method Dates Zone Status Notes Add to Calendar
Archery Sep 15, 2025 - Jan 31, 2026 Statewide Closed Extended archery
Shotgun Nov 17-29, 2025 Statewide Closed Shotgun season
Muzzleloader Dec 1-31, 2025 Statewide Closed Muzzleloader season

Turkey 1 season

Method Dates Zone Status Notes Add to Calendar
Any Legal Method Apr 26 - May 25, 2026 Statewide Upcoming Spring season

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RI

Rhode Island Hunting Regulations

License year, species, and agency information

License Year
Sep 1, 2025 - Aug 31, 2026
Available Species
  • Deer
  • Turkey
Hunting Methods
  • Archery
  • Shotgun
  • Muzzleloader
  • Any Legal Method
Official Source: Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management
Visit Website

This information is for reference only. Always verify regulations with your state wildlife agency before hunting or fishing.

Last verified: January 2026

Important Note for Rhode Island

Rhode Island uses shotgun or muzzleloader for deer. No rifles.

Hunting Method Legend

Archery Bow & Crossbow
Rifle/Firearm Modern rifles
Muzzleloader Black powder
Shotgun Shotguns only
Any Legal All methods

Rhode Island Hunting FAQ

Common questions about hunting seasons in Rhode Island

What are the hunting season dates for Rhode Island?

Rhode Island offers hunting seasons for Deer, Turkey. The license year runs from Sep 1, 2025 to Aug 31, 2026. Check our complete calendar above for specific dates by species and method.

When does deer season start in Rhode Island?

Deer season in Rhode Island typically begins with archery season starting Sep 15, 2025.

Does Rhode Island require a draw for hunting?

Rhode Island offers general season licenses for some species and may require draws for others like elk, moose, or pronghorn. Check specific requirements for your target species.

What hunting seasons are open now in Rhode Island?

The next season to open is Turkey starting Apr 26, 2026.

What should I know about hunting in Rhode Island?

Rhode Island uses shotgun or muzzleloader for deer. No rifles.

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Rhode Island License Info

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