Hunting in New Hampshire: Top Spots for Hunting in the Granite State

Hunting in New Hampshire is a treasured tradition, especially in regard to white-tailed deer. Deer can be hunted with guns, bows, or muzzleloaders, and specific rules and seasons apply to each. The pursuit can involve negotiating rough terrain or enjoying easy access areas.

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While the heavy wooded areas offer freedom to roam and many active species, negotiating timberlands requires determination and stamina. Newly cut areas and land around waterways usually produce more deer per square mile, although the areas may be more crowded with hunters, and the White Mountain National Forest provides some of the best deer-hunting spots in the country, according to Game and Fish magazine.

Deer thrive in areas close to human habitation in the western and southern areas of the state. Farmland, forests and patches of vegetation close to communities draw the deer for food and cover. Access to these spaces requires the permission of the landowners, which is usually easy to get. Hunters should plan ahead, and stake out hunting spots long before the season. Touch base with landowners in the summer to begin the permission process. Early arrangements can also be made for setting up a tree stand, so the hunter is ready to go on opening day.

The area is also loaded with turkey, ruffed grouse, and other wild birds. The White Mountain forests border privately owned lands, so hunters must be careful of where they roam. Check into the United States Department of Agriculture's website for maps and regulations that apply.


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Always check the state New Hampshire Fish and Wildlife Department website before hunting in New Hampshire. The site offers licensing and permit information, hunter education programs, and information about specific hunted species.

The New Hampshire Fish and Wildlife Department manages 89 state-owned Wildlife Management Areas, which are designated for wildlife protection and habitat preservation. The lands are open, but regulated, for hunting, fishing and other outdoor activities; and a list of these properties can be found on The New Hampshire General Court website. Hunters can go through the list, and find locations that are geographically acceptable, and plan their hunting excursions around open seasons for specific game.

This article is for information only. Please check current regulations before hunting.

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