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2021-22 Small Game, Waterfowl, Furbearer Regulations Set

North Dakota’s 2021 small game, waterfowl and furbearer regulations are set, and most season structures are similar to last year.

Noteworthy items include:

  • Opening day for ducks, geese, coots and mergansers for North Dakota residents is Sept. 25. Nonresidents may begin hunting waterfowl in North Dakota Oct. 2.
  • The prairie chicken and sage grouse seasons remain closed due to low populations.
  • Pre-charged pneumatic air guns are legal for taking beaver, raccoon, bobcat, red fox, gray fox, coyote and badger.
  • The season on bobcat is split into two zones.
  • Harvest limit for otters increased to 25.
  • In accordance with state law, nonresidents are not allowed to hunt in Game and Fish Department wildlife management areas or Private Land Open To Sportsmen areas from Oct. 9-15. Exception: nonresidents hunting on PLOTS land they own.

Hunters and trappers can find the North Dakota 2021-22 Hunting and Trapping Guide, which includes upland game, migratory game bird and furbearer/trapping regulations and other information, by visiting the state Game and Fish Department's website, gf.nd.gov. Printed guides will be available at vendor locations in mid-August.

For a complete listing of opening and closing dates, and daily and possession limits, refer to the table on pages 4-5 of the guide.