Upland Game, Migratory Game Bird, Furbearer Hunting Guide

---

---

---

Hungarian Partridge

---

Species Specific Regulations

Limit Type	Amount
Daily Limit	3
Possession Limit	12
Shooting Hours	30 minutes before sunrise to sunset.

General Upland Game Regulations

---

Sharp-tailed Grouse

---

Species Specific Regulations

Limit Type	Amount
Daily Limit	3
Possession Limit	12
Shooting Hours	30 minutes before sunrise to sunset.

Areas Closed to Sharp-tailed Grouse Hunting: That portion of North Dakota bordered on the west by ND Highway 32, on the north by the Sheyenne River, on the south by ND Highway 11 and on the east by the Red and Bois de Sioux rivers. View Map

Know the diffrence between sharp-tailed grouse and greater prairie-chickens before you head into the field to hunt.

General Upland Game Regulations

---

Ruffed Grouse

---

Species Specific Regulations

Limit Type	Amount
Daily Limit	3
Possession Limit	12
Shooting Hours	30 minutes before sunrise to sunset.

Ruffed Grouse Hunting Open Area: Bottineau, Rolette, Cavalier, Pembina and Walsh counties. Also that portion of the J. Clark Salyer National Wildlife Refuge in McHenry County lying south of the Upham-Willow City Road is open to ruffed grouse hunting. View Map

General Upland Game Regulations

---

Pheasant

---

Species Specific Regulations

Limit Type	Amount
Daily Limit	3
Possession Limit	12
Shooting Hours	30 minutes before sunrise to sunset.

Restricted to male pheasants only.

In accordance with state law, nonresidents are not allowed to hunt on Game and Fish Department wildlife management areas or conservation PLOTS (Private Land Open To Sportsmen) areas from October 12-18. Exception: Nonresidents hunting on PLOTS land they own.

Youth Pheasant Season: Legally licensed residents and nonresidents ages 15 and younger may hunt pheasants statewide from October 5-6. An adult of at least 18 years of age must accompany the youth pheasant hunter in the field. This adult may not carry a firearm and may not hunt any species of wildlife. Daily limit and hunting hours are the same as the regular season

General Upland Game Regulations

---

Sage Grouse

---

There will be no season this year.

---

Greater Prairie Chicken

---

There will be no season this year.

---

Tree Squirrel

---

Species Specific Regulations

Limit Type	Amount
Daily Limit	4
Possession Limit	12
Shooting Hours	30 minutes before sunrise to sunset.

Tree squirrels may be taken with shotguns, rimfire, pre-charged pneumatic air guns and muzzleloading firearms, or with bow and arrows legal for taking upland game.

General Upland Game Regulations

---

---

Nonresidents: In accordance with state law, nonresidents are not allowed to hunt on Game and Fish Department wildlife management areas or conservation PLOTS (Private Land Open To Sportsmen) areas from October 12-18. Exception: Nonresidents hunting on PLOTS land they own.

Other Upland Game Hunting Information

• To order a supply of wing envelopes online or by contacting any district office.
• How to Remove a Dog from a Trap or Snare

Also see: General Regulations

---

---

---

Canada Geese

---

Species Specific Regulations - August Management Take/Early September Season

Daily Limit	15
Possession Limit	45
Shooting Hours	30 minutes before sunrise to sunset.

Species Specific Regulations - Regular Season

Daily Limit	8 (Zones Western, Eastern); 5 (Missouri River)
Possession Limit	24 (Zones Western, Eastern); 15 (Missouri River)
Shooting Hours	30 minutes before sunrise to 2 p.m. each day through end of season.

Extended shooting hours: 30 minutes before sunrise to sunset on Saturdays and Wednesdays from September 21 through November 30; and on Saturdays, Sundays and Wednesdays from December 1 through end of season. Note: A hunter may take up to 8 Canada geese in a day, provided no more than 5 come from the Missouri River Zone. Subsequently, a hunter may possess up to 24 Canada geese, provided not more than 15 come from the Missouri River Zone.

Missouri River Canada Goose Zone starting where ND Highway 6 crosses the South Dakota border; then north on ND Highway 6 to Interstate 94; then west on Interstate 94 to ND Highway 49; then north on ND Highway 49 to ND Highway 200; then west on ND Highway 200; then north on ND Highway 8 to the Mercer/McLean county line; then east following the county line until it turns south toward Garrison Dam; then east along a line (including Mallard Island) along the south shore of Lake Sakakawea to U.S. Highway 83; then south on U.S. Highway 83 to ND Highway 200; then east on ND Highway 200 to ND Highway 41; then south on ND Highway 41 to U.S. Highway 83; then south on U.S. Highway 83 to Interstate 94; then east on Interstate 94 to U.S. Highway 83; then south on U.S. Highway 83 to the South Dakota border; then west on the South Dakota border to ND Highway 6.

Western Zone has the same boundaries as the High Plains Duck Unit described the combined guide, excluding the Missouri River Canada Goose Zone.

Eastern Zone has the same boundaries as the Low Plains Duck Unit described the combined guide.

Canada Goose Hunting Zones, Nonresident Waterfowl Zones

Migratory Game Birds General Regulations

---

White-fronted Geese

---

Species Specific Regulations

Limit Type	Amount
Daily Limit	3
Possession Limit	9
Shooting Hours	30 minutes before sunrise to 2 p.m. each day through end of season.

Extended shooting hours: 30 minutes before sunrise to sunset on Saturdays and Wednesdays from September 21 through November 30; and on Saturdays, Sundays and Wednesdays from December 1 through end of season.

Migratory Game Birds General Regulations

---

Light Geese

---

Species Specific Regulations - Fall

Limit Type	Amount
Daily Limit	50
Possession Limit	No Limit
Shooting Hours	30 minutes before sunrise to 2 p.m. each day through end of season.

Extended shooting hours: 30 minutes before sunrise to sunset on Saturdays and Wednesdays from September 21 through November 30; and on Saturdays, Sundays and Wednesdays from December 1 through end of season.

Migratory Game Birds General Regulations

---

Sandhill Crane

---

Extended shooting hours: 30 minutes before sunrise to sunset on Saturdays and Wednesdays beginning September 21 through end of season.

A hunter may take up to 3 cranes in one day, provided all 3 birds are taken from Unit 1, or no more than 2 birds are taken from Unit 2. Nonresident sandhill crane hunters must possess either a small game license or a waterfowl license. Nonresident sandhill crane permits are valid for use within the dates and zones of nonresident waterfowl or small game licenses selected during purchase. Sandhill cranes may be taken from a floating craft, excluding a sink box, if such a craft is beached, or fastened within or tied immediately alongside any type of fixed hunting blind, or from such craft resting at anchor.

WARNING – Know your crane species BEFORE you hunt. Endangered whooping cranes occasionally fly with sandhill cranes. Adult whoopers are snow white and young whoopers are white with some rusty brown feathers; black wing tips show on both. If you see a whooping crane, contact a Game and Fish official or the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Sandhill Crane Unit Map

Migratory Game Birds General Regulations

---

Ducks and Mergansers

---

Species Specific Regulations

Limit Type	Amount
Daily Limit	6 (see Ducks and Mergansers restrictions below)
Possession Limit	Three times the daily limit
Shooting Hours	30 minutes before sunrise to sunset.

DUCKS AND MERGANSERS: SPECIES/SEX RESTRICTIONS

The daily bag limit on ducks (including mergansers) is 6 with species and sex restrictions as follows: 5 mallards of which only 2 may be hens, 3 wood ducks, 2 redheads, 2 canvasbacks, 1 scaup, 1 pintail. Note: An additional 2 blue-winged teal may be taken September 21 through October 6 only. The possession limit on these restricted ducks is three times the daily limit.

SPECIAL YOUTH WATERFOWL HUNTING SEASON

High Plains/Low Plains Unit Map, Nonresident Waterfowl Zones

Migratory Game Birds General Regulations

---

Coot

---

Species Specific Regulations

Limit Type	Amount
Daily Limit	15
Possession Limit	45
Shooting Hours	30 minutes before sunrise to sunset.

High Plains/Low Plains Unit Map, Nonresident Waterfowl Zones

Migratory Game Birds General Regulations

---

Special Youth Waterfowl Season

Legally licensed residents and nonresidents 15 years of age or younger may hunt ducks, mergansers, coots, cranes or geese. An adult of at least 18 years of age must accompany the youth hunter into the field. The adult may not hunt ducks, geese, cranes, coots, or mergansers, unless they qualify to hunt during the Veterans’ and Active Military Personnel waterfowl hunting season. Shooting hours for the Special Youth Waterfowl Hunting Season shall be one-half hour before sunrise to sunset. The daily duck bag limit, including species restrictions and all other regulations that apply to the regular duck hunting seasons shall apply to this special season with the exception that bonus blue-winged teal are not available. The daily goose bag limit, including species restrictions and all other regulations that apply to the regular goose hunting seasons shall apply to this special season, with the exception that hunters shall adhere to early September Canada goose regulations when hunting in an open early September Canada goose zone.

---

Migratory Game Birds General Regulations

---

Tundra Swan

---

Lottery Information

Shooting Hours: 30 minutes before sunrise to sunset.

Licenses were issued by lottery. Successful applicants receive a tag allowing harvest of one swan during the season. Only one tag is allowed per hunter. In no case is it legal to possess a swan unless it is properly tagged. Since swans are waterfowl, nonresidents may hunt them only during the period that their nonresident waterfowl license is valid and must stay within selected zones (exception – statewide license does not restrict hunters to zones).

Migratory Game Birds General Regulations

---

Snipe

---

Species Specific Regulations

Limit Type	Amount
Daily Limit	8
Possession Limit	24
Shooting Hours	30 minutes before sunrise to sunset.

Migratory Game Birds General Regulations

---

Crow

---

Species Specific Regulations

Limit Type	Amount
Daily Limit	There is no limit on crows.
Possession Limit	There is no limit on crows.
Shooting Hours	30 minutes before sunrise to sunset.

Crows may also be taken any time when committing or about to commit depredation as specified in federal law (50CFR21.43).

Migratory Game Birds General Regulations

---

Doves

---

Species Specific Regulations

Limit Type	Amount
Daily Limit	15
Possession Limit	45
Shooting Hours	30 minutes before sunrise to sunset.

In addition to mourning doves, the bag limit includes Eurasian collared doves. It is illegal to shoot doves or other birds resting on utility lines or fixtures adjacent to such lines.

Migratory Game Birds General Regulations

---

Woodcock

---

Species Specific Regulations

Limit Type	Amount
Daily Limit	3
Possession Limit	9
Shooting Hours	30 minutes before sunrise to sunset.

Migratory Game Birds General Regulations

---

---

SPECIAL YOUTH WATERFOWL HUNTING SEASON

FALCONRY (SPECIAL EXTENDED) SEASON

Licensed falconers possessing the appropriate licenses may hunt resident game species from August 17 through March 9, 2025, and also migratory game birds during their open hunting seasons. In addition, falconers may hunt snipe, ducks, mergansers and coots September 2, and September 9-13.

SPECIAL VETERAN AND ACTIVE MILITARY PERSONNEL WATERFOWL HUNTING SEASON

Veterans (as defined in section 101 of title 38, United States Code) and members of the Armed Forces on active duty, who possess a resident hunting license, including members of the National Guard and Reserves on active duty (other than for training), may hunt ducks, coots, mergansers and geese statewide on September 14 and 15. Upon request, hunters must provide proof of veteran or active duty status. All hunters 16 years of age and older must also possess a federal waterfowl stamp. Shooting hours shall be one-half hour before sunrise to sunset. The daily duck bag limit, including species restrictions and all other regulations that apply to the regular duck hunting seasons shall apply to this special season with the exception that bonus blue-winged teal are not available. The daily goose bag limit, including species restrictions and all other regulations that apply to the regular goose hunting seasons shall apply to this special season, with the exception that hunters shall adhere to early September Canada goose regulations when hunting in an open early September Canada goose zone.

NONRESIDENT WATERFOWL HUNTING ZONES

Note: Hunters purchasing the statewide license are not restricted to zones.

Zone 1 – U.S. Highway 281 from South Dakota to Jamestown; U.S. Highway 52 from Jamestown to Carrington; ND Highway 200 from Carrington to Hurdsfield; and ND Highway 3 from Hurdsfield to South Dakota.

Zone 2 – ND Highway 36 from Wilton to Tuttle; ND Highway 3 from Tuttle to Hurdsfield; ND Highway 200 from Hurdsfield to U.S. Highway 52 east of Bowdon; north on U.S. Highway 52 to ND Highway 97 south of Velva; west on ND Highway 97 to ND Highway 41; south on ND Highway 41 (south of Velva) to ND Highway 200 at Turtle Lake; west on ND Highway 200 to ND Highway 200A; south on ND Highway 200A to Washburn; and south on U.S. Highway 83 to Wilton.

Zone 3 – The remainder of the state.

Nonresident Waterfowl Zones Map

WATERFOWL REST AREAS

The following waterfowl rest areas are in effect from September 21 through December 31. The Missouri River waterfowl rest area is closed to goose hunting only. The Sheyenne Lake waterfowl rest area is closed to all waterfowl hunting and fishing from September 21 through December 31, but is open for ice fishing as soon as ice conditions are suitable. The location and full description of each area are detailed below.

• MCLEAN, MERCER, AND OLIVER COUNTIES: Missouri River – An area enclosed by the following boundaries: Starting at the east bank of the Missouri River at the mouth of Turtle Creek south of Washburn, thence north along the east bank of the Missouri River to Garrison Dam, thence west along the face of the dam to the west bank of the Missouri River, thence south along the west bank of the Missouri River to a point directly west of the mouth of Turtle Creek, and thence east to the point of origin. Closed to goose hunting only.
• SHERIDAN COUNTY: Sheyenne Lake – 15 miles N and 4 miles W of Goodrich. The meandered portion of Sheyenne Lake in Section 23, Section 24, Section 25, and Section 26, Township 149, Range 75; and in Section 29, Section 30, Section 31, and Section 32, Township 149, Range 74.

Waterfowl Identification - at centralflyway.org (pdf)

Also see: General Regulations

---

---

---

Badger, Coyote, Fox (Red and Gray)

---

Day hunting season – Red fox, gray fox, coyote and badger may be taken with firearms, pre-charged pneumatic air guns, archery equipment (including crossbows) and pursued with dogs statewide and year-round. Hunting hours are from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset each day. The season will officially close March 31 and reopen April 1.

Night hunting season – Red fox, gray fox and coyote may be taken with firearms and pre-charged pneumatic air guns at any hour during the night hunting season from November 25 through March 15. Beginning January 6, hunters can also use archery equipment (including crossbows) for night hunting of red fox, gray fox and coyotes. Any person who engages in the hunting of red fox, gray fox or coyotes during the time from 30 minutes after sunset to 30 minutes before sunrise must hunt exclusively on foot. Red fox, gray fox and coyote may be hunted on foot with the use of an artificial light, night vision, thermal vision or infrared light with a power source of not more than 6 volts. The artificial light must produce a red, green or amber color.

Trapping season – Red fox, gray fox, coyote and badger may be taken with traps statewide and year-round. The season will officially close March 31 and reopen April 1 of each year. Cable devices (snares) may only be used statewide from November 25 through March 15.

Furbearers/Trapping General Regulations

---

Beaver and Raccoon

---

Beaver dams may be dismantled when their presence causes property damage.

Firearms, traps, underwater cable devices, archery equipment, pursue with dogs (raccoon only) – Open year-round (officially from April 1 - March 31). Beaver and raccoon may be hunted statewide using firearms, pre-charged pneumatic air guns and archery equipment (including crossbows) during regular hunting hours. Beaver and raccoon may be trapped statewide using traps (foothold, body-gripping and cage traps) and underwater cable devices. Raccoon may be pursued statewide with dogs. Beaver and raccoon may also be taken at any hour of the day, while hunting on foot, with the aid of artificial lights, night vision, thermal vision or infrared light with a power source of not more than 6 volts. The artificial light must produce a red, green or amber color except when taking a raccoon treed or at bay.

Legal firearms for flashlight hunting of beaver and raccoon are rifles or handguns firing a rimfire cartridge no larger than .22 caliber, or shotguns no larger than .410 gauge. Rifled slugs are not legal.

Cable devices on land – Opens: November 25 – Closes: March 15. Beaver and raccoon may be captured statewide using legal cable devices.

Cable devices on land within 50 feet of water – March 16 – Closes: May 10. Beaver and raccoon may be captured statewide using legal cable devices. Cable devices must be placed within 50 feet of water and be no greater than 4 inches off the ground.

Furbearers/Trapping General Regulations

---

Bobcat

---

Bobcat may only be harvested by North Dakota residents. Zone 1 includes land west of US Highway 83 from the Canadian border to the South Dakota border. Zone 2 is the remainder of the state not described as Zone 1. No person, taxidermist or fur dealer shall possess or purchase an untagged bobcat. When any part of the animal is mounted, if the tag is removed from the pelt, the tag must be securely fastened to the back or bottom of mount and remain there. The bobcat pelt must be removed from the carcass prior to presenting the bobcat to Department personnel for tagging. No bobcat pelt will be tagged until the animal is skinned and presented with the entire carcass, including the head. The carcass shall remain the property of the Department.

Zone 1 – Firearms, pre-charged pneumatic air guns, archery equipment (including crossbows), traps – Opens: November 9 – Closes: March 15 Beginning November 25, bobcats can also be harvested with the use of a cable device (snares) or pursuing with dogs. There is no limit on the number of bobcats that can be taken per person. The pelt and carcass of each bobcat must be presented to Game and Fish Department personnel for inspection and tagging no later than 14 days after the close of the season (March 29, 2025), or prior to sale or transfer of possession, whichever comes first.

Zone 2 – Firearms, pre-charged pneumatic air guns, archery equipment (including crossbows), traps, cable devices (snares), pursuing with dogs – Opens: November 25 – Closes: March 15. The limit is one bobcat per person. Trappers must contact the local game warden or Department field office or register online to report their harvest within 12 hours and make arrangements to have the bobcat tagged. Harvest may be no more than 8 bobcats in Zone 2. Once the harvest limit of 8 bobcats is reached, the season will close immediately. The Department will inform the public of this closure through the media. Bobcats taken by USDA Wildlife Services, the Department, private landowners in defense of livestock or personal property, road-killed, taken for human safety issues and those taken on Indian land will not count against any harvest limit.

Bobcat Zones

Furbearers/Trapping General Regulations

---

Fisher

---

Fisher may only be harvested by North Dakota residents. Fisher may be harvested statewide, except the area on the west by ND Highway 14, on the north Canada, on the east ND Highway 30, and on the south ND highway 5, which is closed. The limit is one fisher per person. Trappers must contact the local game warden or Department field office or register online to report their harvest within 12 hours and make arrangements to have the fisher tagged. The pelt must be removed from the carcass prior to presenting the fisher to Department personnel for tagging. No fisher pelt will be tagged until the animal is skinned and presented with the entire carcass, including the head. The carcass shall remain the property of the Department. No person, taxidermist or fur dealer shall possess or purchase an untagged fisher. When any part of the animal is mounted, if the tag is removed from the pelt, the tag must be securely fastened to the back or bottom of mount.

Traps, cable devices – Opens: November 25 – Closes: December 3

Fisher Open Areas

Furbearers/Trapping General Regulations

---

Mink and Muskrat

---

Muskrat huts may be opened to insert traps or cable devices. However, huts must be restored to their approximate original condition to prevent freeze-up.

Traps – Opens: October 26 – Closes: May 10. Beginning March 16, non-floating colony traps must be under at least 2 inches of water and trapping on the outside of any muskrat house or structure is prohibited; traps may be placed completely inside a muskrat house or structure of any size; foothold traps must be submerged under water at all times or have a protective covering (except when used on float sets); body-gripping traps used in a water set can have no more than 2 inches of the trap above water or a protective covering.

Beginning May 1, float sets must have a protective covering.

Cable devices – Opens: November 25 – Closes: May 10. Mink and muskrat may be captured statewide using legal cable devices. Beginning March 16, using cable devices on the outside of any muskrat house or structure of any size is prohibited.

Firearms, archery equipment – Opens: November 25 – Closes: May 10. Mink and muskrat may be hunted statewide with rimfire cartridges or precharged pneumatic air guns of .22 caliber or smaller, and archery equipment (including crossbows).

Furbearers/Trapping General Regulations

---

Mountain Lion

---

Mountain lions may only be hunted by North Dakota residents. The limit is one mountain lion per person. Any mountain lion, other than kittens (kitten is defined as a mountain lion with visible spots) or females accompanied by kittens, may be harvested during the season. Hunters must contact the local game warden or Department field office or register online to report their harvest within 12 hours and make arrangements to have the mountain lion tagged. The entire mountain lion, including the head, must be presented for inspection and tagging. Legally taken animals will be returned to the hunter following analysis so that the pelt may be removed, but the carcass shall remain the property of the Department. The use of traps or cable devices (snares) to take mountain lions is prohibited. The state will be split into two management zones; Zone 1 and Zone 2. Zone 1 includes land south of ND Highway 1804 from the Montana border to the point where ND Highway 1804 lies directly across Lake Sakakawea from ND Highway 8, crossing Lake Sakakawea then south along ND Highway 8 to ND Highway 200, then west on ND Highway 200 to U.S. Highway 85, then south on U.S. Highway 85 to the South Dakota border. Zone 2 is the remainder of the state not described as Zone 1. Each Zone 1 season will have harvest limits. Once these harvest limits are reached, each respective season will close immediately. The Department will inform the public of each closure through the media. Mountain lions taken by USDA Wildlife Services, the Department, private landowners in defense of livestock or personal property, road-killed, incidentally taken by traps or cable devices, taken for human safety issues and those taken on Indian land will not count against any harvest limit.

Zone 1 early-season – Opens: August 30 – Closes: November 24 Mountain lions may be harvested using firearms, pre-charged pneumatic air guns and archery equipment (including crossbows). Harvest may be no more than 8 mountain lions.

Zone 1 late-season – Opens: November 25 – Closes: March 31 Mountain lions may be harvested using firearms, pre-charged pneumatic air guns, archery equipment (includes crossbows), and pursuing with dogs. Harvest may be no more than 7 mountain lions or 3 female mountain lions, whichever comes first.

Zone 1 conditional season – If the harvest limit for the early-season is not reached on or prior to November 24, and after the late-season has been closed (due to harvest limit being reached) for 5 consecutive days, the early-season will reopen until the Zone 1 early-season harvest limit is reached or until March 31. If the late-season closes after March 25, there will not be a Zone 1 conditional season.

Zone 2 – Opens: August 30 – Closes: March 31 Mountain lions may be harvested using firearms, pre-charged pneumatic air guns and archery equipment (including crossbows). Beginning November 25, mountain lions may also be harvested by pursuing with dogs. There is no overall harvest limit for Zone 2.

Mountaion Lion Zones

Furbearers/Trapping General Regulations

---

River Otter

---

River otter may only be harvested by North Dakota residents. The limit is one river otter per person. River otters may be harvested statewide. Trappers must contact the local game warden or Department field office or register online to report their harvest within 12 hours and make arrangements to have the river otter tagged. The pelt must be removed from the carcass prior to presenting the river otter to Department personnel for tagging. No river otter pelt will be tagged until the animal is skinned and presented with the entire carcass, including the head. The carcass shall remain property of the Department. No person, taxidermist or fur dealer shall possess or purchase an untagged river otter. When any part of the animal is mounted, if the tag is removed from the pelt, the tag must be securely fastened to the back or bottom of mount. Harvest may be no more than 25 river otters. Once the harvest limit of 25 river otters is reached, the season will close immediately. The Department will inform the public of this closure through the media. River otters taken by USDA Wildlife Services, the Department, private landowners in defense of livestock or personal property, road-killed, taken for human safety issues and those taken on Indian land will not count against the harvest limit.

Traps, cable devices – Opens: November 25 – Closes: March 15

Furbearers/Trapping General Regulations

---

Weasel

---

Traps – Opens: October 26 – Closes: March 15. Weasel may be trapped statewide using legal traps.

Firearms, cable devices, archery equipment – Opens: November 25 – Closes: March 15. Weasel may be hunted statewide with rimfire cartridges or pre-charged pneumatic air guns of .22 caliber or smaller, and archery equipment (including crossbows). Weasel may be captured statewide using cable devices.

Furbearers/Trapping General Regulations

---

---

DEFINITIONS

Body-gripping trap – trap designed to allow the animal’s head, neck or torso to enter the trap opening and be held by compression of the jaws when sprung (example, Conibear). See TRAP SET RESTRICTIONS section.

Cable device – noose used for restraining furbearers by the neck or body (example, snare). See CABLE DEVICES RESTRICTIONS section.

Colony trap – enclosure device designed to allow the capture of one or more furbearers in a single setting with one or more one-way entrances that are partially or fully submerged in water; entire trap cannot exceed 12 inches high, wide or in diameter, by 36 inches long. See MINK AND MUSKRAT section.

Enclosed foothold – trap used for restraining furbearers by the foot with a push or pull-activated trigger located inside an enclosure and recessed from the opening; opening not to exceed 1.75 inches in height, width or diameter.

Floating colony trap – an enclosure device designed to allow the capture of one or more furbearers in a single setting with one or more one-way entrances that are entirely above the water surface; entrances not to exceed eight inches high, eight inches wide or eight inches in diameter.

Foothold trap – steel-jawed trap used for restraining furbearers by the foot (examples, long-spring or coil-spring foothold trap).

Green furs – any furs intended for sale that have not been tanned or dressed for use in taxidermy, wall hangings, rugs or garment leather; includes furs that have not been removed from the carcass.

Protective covering – trap set covering of structural material (wire mesh, wood, plastic, metal) limiting access to the trap through an opening not to exceed 8 inches high by 8 inches wide.

Sight exposed bait – any bait weighing in excess of 1 pound, composed of animal flesh, fur, hide, entrails or feathers placed in such a manner that it can be seen by any soaring raptor.

Water set – trap or cable device which is set or staked in a manner to permit the trap, cable device or trapped animal to reach water. See TRAP SET RESTRICTIONS section.

GENERAL GUIDELINES

• Hunting hours are from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset. See exceptions for fox (red and gray), coyote, beaver and raccoon in species sections.
• The opening hour on the first day of all furbearer seasons is 30 minutes before sunrise. After the first day of the season, trapping or using cable devices is legal at any hour.
• Written permission must be secured from landowners or operators before placing or setting any traps or cable devices on private land, including PLOTS lands. The owner or operator may determine the length of time permission is granted.
• The season for Canada lynx, gray wolf, swift/kit fox, black bear, wolverine and American marten shall remain closed.
• Trappers and cable device users must report any furbearer taken for which the season is closed, or other protected species incidentally taken, within 12 hours and make arrangements to turn over entire carcass to the Department.
• It is illegal to drive off established roads or trails during the deer gun season while attempting to take furbearers with firearms, archery equipment and dogs.
• It is illegal to place traps or cable devices within 25 feet of any sight exposed bait.
• It is illegal to intentionally destroy, molest, disturb or tamper with any other person’s trap or cable device, the set, or with any furbearer restrained therein.
• No furbearer may be taken and possessed alive.
• No person, while operating a snowmobile in this state, may kill, chase, flush, or harass any wild animal or wild bird, protected or unprotected.
• Aircraft may not be used to take coyote, fox or other furbearers without a special permit.
• All traps or cable devices left unattended on state wildlife management areas or federal waterfowl production areas must have a metal or plastic tag displaying the trapper’s name, address and telephone number, or equipment registration number.

CLOSED OR RESTRICTED AREAS

Wildlife management areas so posted, refuges, sanctuaries, national parks and historic sites shall be closed to the hunting and trapping of all furbearers. Exceptions: Hunting and trapping furbearers may be permitted at times and on those areas of federally owned refuges designated by the refuge manager. A permit from the refuge manager is required for those wishing to trap on federal refuges. For additional regulations on federal refuges, contact refuge headquarters. A permit from the Department director is required to take furbearers on those state wildlife management areas and state easement refuges posted closed to hunting.

Trapping on school trust lands is allowed, if the commissioner gives written permission. By giving permission, the lessee is made aware that legal traps and snares could be in the area. The state does not guarantee that school trust lands are legally accessible; in some cases, terrain and other natural obstructions may make access difficult. Access to school trust lands is strictly nonvehicular. Trails are used only for management purposes and may not be used by the public for vehicular travel. Contact the ND Department of Trust Lands at 701-328-2800 for the name and address of the current surface lessee.

CABLE DEVICE RESTRICTIONS

• Cable devices are permitted on state wildlife management areas and federal waterfowl production areas after the close of small game seasons, starting January 6, 2025. FURBEARER/ TRAPPING Page 26 ND Upland Game, Migratory Game Birds and Furbearer Guide – 2024-25
• A metal or plastic tag must be attached to each cable device. This tag must display the trapper’s name, address and telephone number, or equipment registration number.
• One stop must be affixed to each cable device on land to prevent the loop from opening to a diameter greater than 12 inches.
• Cable devices cannot be placed or set in the field prior to the opening date and cannot remain in the field after the closing date of the cable device season for respective species.
• All cable devices must be affixed to an immovable object solidly attached to the ground. The use of drags is prohibited.
• Cable devices must be set so the bottom of the loop is no greater than 12 inches from the ground; or when the ground is snow covered, no greater than 12 inches above the bottom of an adult’s footprint in the snow beneath the cable device with the full body weight on the foot.
• Cable devices must be constructed of single-strand (1x19) or multi-strand (7x7) or (7x19) carbon or stainless steel cable of 1/16-inch diameter or larger.
• Cable devices must possess a lock or breakaway device that allows the cable loop to disassemble at no more than 350 pounds pull. The Testing Standard for Breakaway Cable Devices determines the pounds of pull for disassembly (gf.nd.gov/hunting/cable-testing-standards).
• Individuals who are using cable devices must assume liability and responsibility for ensuring that devices, locks or parts break or disassemble at 350 pounds pull, or less.

TRAP SET RESTRICTIONS

• State wildlife management areas
  • Year-round: Body-gripping traps with greater than 6-inch inside jaw spread must –
    • Be in 4 inches or more of water; or
    • Be recessed at least 7 inches in a plastic, wood or metal cubby with a maximum 50 square inch opening; or
    • Be recessed at least 10 inches in a plastic, wood or metal cubby with a maximum 80 square inch opening.
• All other lands
  • September 1 – October 25: Body-gripping traps with greater than 8-inch inside jaw spread and all water sets except those using enclosed footholds must –
    • Be in 4 inches or more of water; or
    • Be used in an upland set and recessed at least 10 inches in a plastic, wood or metal cubby with a maximum 80 square inch opening.
  • October 26 – January 5: Body-gripping traps with greater than 8-inch inside jaw spread must –
    • Be in 4 inches or more of water; or
    • Be used in an upland set and recessed at least 10 inches in a plastic, wood or metal cubby with a maximum 80 square inch opening.
  • January 6 – March 15: No restrictions on placement.
  • March 16 – May 10: Footholds that are not enclosed and body-gripping traps placed in or on water, but not used on float sets, must –
    • Have a protective covering; or
    • Foothold traps not being used on a float set must be submerged under water; or
    • Body-gripping traps less than 8 inches inside jaw spread must have no more than 2 inches of the trap above the water surface.
    • Footholds that are not enclosed and body-gripping traps used on float sets must have a protective covering May 1 through May 10.
  • May 11 – August 31: No restrictions on placement.

Also see: General Regulations

---

---

GENERAL INFORMATION

Hunters and trappers are required to purchase licenses, except any resident, or member of his or her family permanently residing with him or her, may hunt small game, trap or use cable devices during the open season without a license upon land owned or leased by him or her, but otherwise is governed by seasons, limits and all other regulations.

Residents do not need a license to take unprotected species of wildlife (prairie dogs, rabbits, skunks, ground squirrels). Nonresidents hunting only unprotected species of wildlife need only a nongame license.

A resident who is on leave and on active duty with the United States military may hunt small game or trap during the season without a license. Contact the Department for details.

• Residency Eligibility
• Resident Prices
• Nonresident Prices

ELIGIBILITY

Hunter Education Requirement – Hunters born after December 31, 1961 must have passed a certified state or provincial hunter education course in order to purchase a North Dakota hunting license. Exceptions: Persons who hunt only on land they own or operate, and youth under age 12 may hunt if they have appropriate licenses. In addition, individuals who are 12 years of age and older who have not taken the hunter education course may receive an apprentice hunter validation that enables them to hunt small game (includes waterfowl) for one license year.

Minimum Age – There is no minimum age for hunting small game, waterfowl or furbearers, but anyone under age 15 afield with firearms must be licensed and under direct supervision (must be able to have unaided verbal contact) of a parent, guardian or adult authorized by their parent or guardian.

Licenses - Valid in either paper or electronic format. No person may give away, barter or sell an issued license. Licenses are nontransferable.

HARVEST INFORMATION PROGRAM

All migratory bird hunters must register annually with the Migratory Bird Harvest Information Program in each state in which they hunt ducks, geese, swans, mergansers, coots, cranes, snipe, doves and woodcock. Hunters who do not HIP register when they buy a North Dakota license, can add it later through the Game and Fish website at gf.nd.gov. HIP registration is a cooperative program designed to determine a sample of hunters from which to measure the harvest of migratory birds for management purposes.

DEFINITION OF TERMS

Game - “Game” includes any of those species of small game, or furbearers as defined in Section 20.1-01-02 of the North Dakota Century Code.

Small Game - includes all game birds (including waterfowl) and tree squirrels.

Upland Game - includes sharp-tailed grouse, Hungarian partridge, pheasants,ruffed grouse and tree squirrels.

Migratory Game Birds - includes ducks, geese, swans, mergansers, coots, cranes, snipe, dove and woodcock. All hunters must be HIP registered.

Waterfowl - includes ducks, geese, swans, mergansers and coots.

Daily Bag Limit - (Daily Limit) is the maximum number of a particular game that one hunter, legally licensed by this state, may take or kill during a single hunting day, within the boundaries of this state.

Possession Limit - is the maximum number of a particular game species that a hunter, legally licensed by this state, may have in his/her actual possession during any phase of any single hunting trip, venture, or expedition of more than one day. No more than one daily limit may be taken on any one day. The possession limit at one’s personal permanent residence, except for waterfowl and migratory game birds, is not limited.

Possession Limit for Waterfowl and Migratory Game Birds is the maximum number of migratory game birds of a single species or a combination of species permitted to be possessed by any one person when lawfully taken in the United States in any one specified geographic area (typically a state, Indian reservation or a hunting unit or zone within a state) for which a possession limit is prescribed.

Migratory Bird Preservation Facility is any person or business for hire or other consideration, taxidermist, cold storage or locker plant facility, or hunting club which receives, possesses, or has in custody any migratory game birds belonging to another for purposes of picking, cleaning, freezing, processing, storage or shipment.

Possession of Shot other than Nontoxic Shot means in the gun, or in the pockets, or within reach while in the process of hunting. See nontoxic shot regulations below.

Canada geese includes all Canada geese, cackling geese and any other geese except white-fronted and light geese.

Light geese include snow geese, blue geese and Ross’s geese.

NONTOXIC SHOT REGULATIONS

The possession or use of shot other than federally approved nontoxic shot is prohibited while hunting ducks, geese, sandhill cranes, tundra swans, mergansers, snipe and coot statewide. For a list of approved nontoxic shot, visit the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service website at fws.gov.

Nontoxic shot is required for all hunting on all U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service lands, including federal refuges and waterfowl production areas. This regulation applies to all hunters using shotguns, except while hunting turkeys and big game. These shot requirements are in addition to current statewide nontoxic shot requirements for migratory birds as listed above.

LEGAL FIREARMS AND AMMUNITION

Game Birds and Waterfowl – Only firearms no smaller than .410 gauge nor larger than 10 gauge loaded with shot and capable of holding no more than three shells, legal archery equipment, and raptors may be used. Pistols may not be used to take migratory game birds. Nontoxic shot is required for some species and on some lands. Raptors may be used only by those possessing a falconry permit.

A bow must be pulled, held and released by hand. Any release aid may be used providing it is hand operated, the shooter supports the draw weight of the bow, and the release is not attached to any part of the bow other than at the bowstring. Telescopic sights, range finding devices, or other electronic devices attached to the bow, or the arrow, are not permitted (exception: battery-powered or electronically lighted sights that do not project light, lighted nocks and recording devices which do not aid in range finding, sighting or shooting the bow are permitted). Handheld range-finding devices are legal. Arrows capable of causing damage or injury in excess of that inflicted by the cutting edges of the broadhead, are prohibited while hunting small game with a bow (e.g., explosive arrow points, arrows tipped with drugs or chemicals, ND Upland Game, Migratory Game Birds and Furbearer Guide – 2024-25 Page 39 and pneumatic or hydraulic shafts are illegal). Arrows must be at least 24 inches long and have at least 2 untrimmed feathers, or not less than 5 trimmed feathers when shooting at birds in flight.

Blind individuals, paraplegics and/or those having lost the use of one or both arms, having a permit from the Game and Fish director to hunt with a crossbow, may use a crossbow during small game seasons. Contact the Department for additional information on crossbow regulations.

AIRCRAFT, BOATS, MOTOR-DRIVEN VEHICLES

It is illegal to kill, chase, harass, flush, drive, concentrate, rally, raise, stir up or disturb game with all types of aircraft, manned or unmanned.

It is illegal to shoot with bow and arrow or firearm while in or on a motordriven vehicle.

No person may carry a firearm with a cartridge in the chamber in or on a motor-driven vehicle while hunting, except as otherwise provided by law. The entire cylinder of a revolver is considered the chamber, requiring the revolver to be completely unloaded. Handguns with removable magazines or clips must have the magazine or clips removed from the firearm if the magazine or clip contains any loaded shells. It is illegal to carry any muzzleloading firearm in or on a motor-driven vehicle with a cap or primer in place or powder in the flash pan.

Landowners may be more restrictive on their own property. In general, driving off established roads and trails is not allowed on state and federal lands. For more detailed information check with the managing agency.

Driving off established roads and trails on private land is legal for the hunting of waterfowl and cranes; legal for the hunting of upland game with written permission from the landowner or lessee who actively farms or ranches the land (exception: does not apply during the deer gun season); NOT legal for the hunting of big game except for retrieval of harvested big game.

Mallard Island and deTrobriand Island within Lake Sakakawea are closed to the use of all motor-driven vehicles and aircraft. On all other wildlife management areas owned or managed by the Department, the use of all motor-driven vehicles is restricted to those constructed roads, well worn trails, and parking areas normally used by passenger cars. Motor-driven vehicle use on wildlife management areas is further restricted or prohibited where posted as such.

Established roads or trails do not include temporary trails made for agricultural purposes.

No person may use motor-driven vehicles on North Dakota Game and Fish Department Conservation PLOTS (Private Land Open To Sportsmen) property without permission from the landowner, or as otherwise signed by the Department. These areas have been entrusted to the public for walking access through written agreements with private landowners. The boundaries of these properties are identified by large yellow triangular signs.

Motorboats are legal for going to and from hunting areas. Ducks, coots, mergansers, geese and tundra swans may be taken from a floating craft, excluding a sink box, if such craft is either beached, fastened within or tied immediately alongside any type of fixed hunting blind, or resting at anchor. It is illegal to shoot from a sunken device or any free floating vessel on open water, or to use or cause to be used any free floating battery, electric, steam, gasoline or other powered vessel in an attempt to take waterfowl. A motorboat, sailboat or other craft may be used to pick up dead or injured birds.

All watercraft must have aboard a U.S. Coast Guard approved life preserver for each occupant. Additionally, any watercraft powered by any motor (including electric motors) must be registered and numbered (licensed) through the North Dakota Game and Fish Department, or for nonresidents – through the state where principally used.

IDENTIFICATION

One fully feathered wing or the fully feathered head of all waterfowl, snipe, dove, crane and woodcock; and one leg and foot, or the fully feathered head, or the fully feathered wing of pheasant, Hungarian partridge and all grouse shall remain attached to such game during transportation or shipment until it reaches the hunter’s legal residence or it is processed to be immediately consumed.

TRANSPORTATION AND STORAGE

License holders must accompany their game, or parts thereof, during transportation. Game may be shipped by common carrier in receipt of proper bill of lading. No resident of the state may ship game or parts thereof out of state without a permit from the Department. Any resident, other than a licensed furbuyer complying with Section 20.1-03-23 of the North Dakota Century Code who ships or transports such hides or furs, shall tag each hide or fur with the name of the person having taken it and that person’s furbearer license number. Except for legally gifted game, it is illegal to possess or transport another’s game animal, or parts thereof, without the license holder accompanying or as otherwise permitted.

No person shall leave or store any game birds at any place other than that person’s legal residence unless each piece of game is tagged with the owner’s signature and address, date taken, number and species of game, and license number of the person who harvested the game. The packaging of game birds away from a person’s legal residence must be in a manner that the species and number of game birds in each package is easily determined.

Game may be gifted to another, however this does not allow a person to exceed a daily limit. Any gifted game to be transported must be tagged with the above information and display sex and species identification as required. Termination of possession can only be accomplished by: (1) gifting of legally harvested game; (2) by consuming the game.

Nonresidents may transport or ship from the state a possession limit of upland game. No one may possess in the field, transport or ship at any one time, more than a possession limit of upland game or migratory game birds. No person shall ship migratory game birds unless the package is marked on the outside with: (1) the name and address of the person sending the birds; (2) the name and address of the person to whom the birds are being sent; and (3) the number of each species contained in the package.

POSTING AND TRESPASS

Only the owner or tenant, or an individual authorized by the owner, may post land either electronically or by placing physical signs giving notice that no hunting is permitted on the land. The name of the person posting the land must appear on each physical sign in legible characters. Physical signs must be readable from the outside of the land and must be placed conspicuously not more than 880 yards (one-half mile) apart. For land entirely enclosed by a fence or other enclosure, posting of signs at or on all gates through the fence or enclosure constitutes a posting of all the enclosed land.

It is illegal to hunt on posted lands without permission from the owner or tenant. Hunting on posted land without permission can be prosecuted even if the land is not posted to the letter of the law. Trespass is a criminal violation punishable by suspension of hunting, fishing and trapping privileges for a period of at least one year.

It is illegal to hunt upon the premises of another within 440 yards (one-quarter mile) of any occupied building without the consent of the person occupying the building. This does not prohibit hunting on land owned by neighbors (private or public) even if the land is less than 440 yards (one-quarter mile) from the occupied building.

Any person may enter upon legally posted land (without a firearm or bow) to recover game shot or killed on land where he/she had a lawful right to hunt. It is illegal to hunt in unharvested cereal and oilseed crops, including sprouted winter wheat, alfalfa, clover and other grasses grown for seed, without the owner’s consent.

It is illegal to deface, take down or destroy posting signs. Failure to close gates upon exit or entry is a criminal violation, punishable by forfeiture of hunting licenses.

Written permission must be secured from landowners or operators before placing or setting any traps or cable devices on private land, including PLOTS lands. The owner or operator may determine the length of time permission is granted.

ROAD RIGHTS-OF-WAY

Do not hunt on road rights-of-way unless you are certain that they are open to public use. Most road rights-of-way are under control of the adjacent landowner and are closed to hunting when the adjacent land is posted closed to hunting.

WANTON WASTE OF MIGRATORY GAME BIRDS AND UPLAND GAME

No person shall kill, cripple, waste, destroy, spoil or abandon the edible flesh of any migratory game or upland game without making a reasonable effort to retrieve the bird/animal, and retain it in his/her actual custody, at the place where taken and between that place and either (a) his or her personal permanent residence; (b) taxidermist; or (c) a common carrier. Edible flesh means the breast meat of any game bird or the hind legs and lower back of a squirrel.

FIRE DANGER INDEX

The fire danger index provides an indication of wildland fire potential. Fire danger indexes are calculated considering temperature, humidity, wind speed, cloud cover and vegetative condition, and are rated as Low, Medium, High, Very High or Extreme. Fires are more likely to occur on higher index days. Certain outdoor activities may be prohibited when a fire danger index is considered Very High or Extreme. Hunters are asked to be aware of current fire danger indexes. Updated information is available through ndresponse.gov, or from a county sheriff’s office.

CLOSED OR RESTRICTED AREAS

PLOTS Areas -

In accordance with N.D.C.C. 20.1-08-04.9, nonresidents may not hunt any game from October 12-18, on North Dakota Game and Fish Department wildlife management areas or on Conservation PLOTS (Private Land Open To Sportsmen) areas. Exception: Nonresidents hunting on PLOTS land they own.

Wildlife management areas so posted, refuges, sanctuaries, national parks and historic sites shall be closed to the hunting and trapping of all species. (Exception: small game hunting, and furbearer hunting and trapping, may be permitted at times and on those areas of federally owned refuges designated by the refuge manager.) For additional regulations on federal refuges, contact refuge headquarters.

The Minot and Grand Forks air bases are closed to hunting. Nelson Lake in Oliver County is open to waterfowl hunting under special restrictions. Waterfowl hunting will only be allowed along the north shoreline in the N 1/2 of section 32 and the northwest part of the lake in sections 29 and 30. All other parts of the lake are closed to hunting. No open water hunting from a boat is allowed. All hunting must be done from shore.

School trust lands are open to nonvehicular public access, including hunting, unless posted with ND Department of Trust Lands signs. Trapping is allowed, if the current surface lessee gives written permission. By giving permission, the lessee is made aware that legal traps and snares could be in the area. The only established trails on Department of Trust Lands available for public use are those that are signed with Game and Fish Department trail markers. See the ND Department of Trust Lands surface and minerals management page at land.nd.gov.

State law allows the governor to close or postpone a hunting season upon reasonable notice through the media if climatic conditions create a fire hazard.

land.nd.gov for additional information.

OTHER RESTRICTIONS

• An individual must harvest his or her own limit.
• It is illegal to go afield with a firearm or archery equipment while intoxicated.
• It is illegal to possess or use an electronic or recorded call while hunting migratory game birds.
• Use of artificial light, night vision, thermal vision or infrared light for locating or hunting game is prohibited, except for beaver, raccoon, fox and coyote during the open night hunting season on the animal.
• Hunters may retrieve game that has fallen into a state wildlife refuge if they leave their firearms outside the boundary. They may not retrieve game that has fallen into a federal wildlife refuge unless there has been a retrieving zone designated by the refuge manager.
• It is illegal to shoot harmless birds. All hawks, owls, falcons and eagles are protected by state and federal law.
• It is illegal to use live ducks or geese as decoys.
• No person may possess or sell any live wildlife or release any wildlife into the wild without a permit from the Department.
• Trail cameras may not be installed on private property without written permission from the landowner, or an individual authorized by the owner, and the camera must have an equipment registration number, or the individuals name, address and telephone number.

SUMMARY OF FEDERAL REGULATIONS

The following is a synopsis of federal regulations that pertain to the hunting of migratory game birds. Persons requiring more information should go to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service website at fws.gov, to find a complete version of 50 CFR Part 20, contact the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service at 701-250-4418 or 701-255-0593, or a local national wildlife refuge office. Migratory birds include all migratory game birds and most birds found in the United States with the exception of the house sparrow, feral pigeon (commonly called rock dove), European starling, Eurasian collared dove, mute swan, and upland game birds, which are protected by state laws. A complete list of protected migratory birds is found in Title 50 Code of Federal Regulations, Section. 10.13.

Daily bag limit means the maximum number of migratory game birds of single species or combination (aggregate) of species permitted to be taken by one person in any one day during the open season in any one specified geographic area (typically a hunting unit or zone) for which a daily bag limit is prescribed. Aggregate daily bag limit means the maximum number of migratory game birds permitted to be taken by one person in any one day during the open season when such person hunts in more than one specified geographic area and/or for more than one species for which a combined daily bag limit is prescribed. The aggregate daily bag limit is equal to, but shall not exceed, the largest daily bag limit prescribed for any one species or for any one specified geographic area (typically a second state, Indian reservation, hunting unit or zone within a state) in which taking occurs.

Opening day of a season – No person on the opening day of the season shall possess any freshly killed migratory game birds in excess of the daily bag limit, or aggregate daily bag limit, whichever applies.

Field possession limit – No person shall possess, have in custody, or transport more than the daily bag limit or aggregate daily bag limit, whichever applies, of migratory game birds, tagged or not tagged, at or between the place where taken and either (a) his/her automobile or principal means of land transportation; or (b) his/her personal abode or temporary or transient place of lodging; or (c) a migratory bird preservation facility; or (d) a post office; or (e) a common carrier facility.

Aggregate possession limit means the maximum number of migratory game birds of a single species or combination of species taken in the United States permitted to be possessed by any one person when taking and possession occurs in more than one specified geographic area (typically a second state, Indian reservation, hunting unit or zone with a state) for which a possession limit is prescribed. The aggregate possession limit is equal to, but shall not exceed, the largest possession limit prescribed for any one of the species or specified geographic areas in which taking and possession occurs.

Personal abode means one’s principal or ordinary home or dwelling place, as distinguished from one’s temporary or transient place of abode or dwelling such as a hunting club, or any club house, cabin, tent or trailer house used as a hunting club, or any hotel, motel or rooming house used during a hunting, pleasure or business trip.

No person shall take migratory game birds:

• With a trap, snare, net, rifle, pistol, swivel gun, shotgun larger than 10 gauge, punt gun, battery gun, machine gun, fish hook, poison, drug, explosive, or stupefying substance; with a shotgun of any description capable of holding more than three shells, unless it is plugged with a one-piece filler, incapable of removal without disassembling the gun, so its total capacity does not exceed three shells.
• From or by means, aid, or use of any motor vehicle, motor-driven land conveyance, or aircraft of any kind, except that paraplegics and persons missing one or both legs may take birds from any stationary motor vehicle or stationary motor-driven land conveyance.
• By the use or aid of live birds as decoys; although not limited to, it shall be a violation for any person to take migratory waterfowl on an area where tame or captive live ducks or geese are present unless such birds are and have been for a period of 10 consecutive days prior to such taking, confined within an enclosure which substantially reduces the audibility of their calls and totally conceals such birds from the sight of wild migratory waterfowl.
• By the aid of baiting, or on or over any baited area, where a person knows or reasonably should know that the area is or has been baited. Baiting means the direct or indirect placing, exposing, depositing, distributing, or scattering of salt, grain, or other feed that could serve as a lure or attraction for migratory game birds to, on or over any areas where hunters are attempting to take them.

HUNTING BY NONTRIBAL MEMBERS ON NORTH DAKOTA INDIAN RESERVATIONS

If an individual hunts exclusively on Indian lands within an Indian reservation, a tribal license is required and a state hunting license is not required. Hunting on nontribal lands within an Indian reservation requires a state hunting license. Game taken legally with a tribal license within an Indian reservation may be possessed and transported anywhere in North Dakota.

Portions of some units/zones are located on Indian reservations. Contact reservation tribal offices for more information:

• Fort Berthold. Game and Fish Department, 404 Frontage Road, New Town, ND 58763, 701-627-4760.
• Standing Rock. Game and Fish Department, Box 549, Fort Yates, ND 58538, 701-854-7236.
• Turtle Mountain. Department of Natural Resources, Box 570, Belcourt, ND 58316, 701-477-2604.
• Spirit Lake. Fish and Wildlife Department, Box 359, Fort Totten, ND 58335, 701-766-1243.

OTHER

Aquatic Nuisance Species Sticker

All motorized watercraft not licensed in this state and operated on North Dakota waters must annually obtain a valid, nonrefundable aquatic nuisance species (ANS) sticker. ANS stickers are valid for one calendar year. ANS stickers may only be purchased through the Department’s website.

This ANS sticker must be placed on the starboard side of the watercraft within 6 inches of the registration number and displayed within 10 days of purchase.

Each licensed watercraft is listed on the purchase receipt. A copy of the purchase receipt is proof of validation until the sticker is received via postal mail.

Remember to properly Clean, Drain and Dry your equipment to prevent the spread of harmful aquatic nuisance species.

• How to Prevent the Spread of ANS
• Aquatic Nuisance Species Fee
• Boating Safety
• Tom Roster's 2016 Nontoxic Shot Lethality Table