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Hunting in North Dakota
North Dakota Hunting at Glance
North Dakota is a great place to hunt because of the many different types of game that are available. The most common type of hunting in North Dakota is deer hunting, but there are also opportunities to hunt for elk, moose, bighorn sheep, pronghorn antelope, waterfowl, and upland game birds.
North Dakota is also a great state for upland bird hunting, with opportunities to hunt pheasant, sharp tailed grouse, sage grouse, and Hungarian partridge. There are also great public hunting areas around federal waterfowl production areas and state wildlife management areas. You do not need permission to hunt private land in North Dakota, although it is still recommended.
North Dakota ranks #4 in the nation for hunting license per capita and has a strong hunting culture with over 17.8% of the population classified as registered hunters.
Key Insights
- North Dakota is a great place for hunting, with a variety of game available including deer, elk, moose, bighorn sheep, pronghorn antelope, waterfowl, and upland game birds.
- North Dakota is known for its upland bird hunting, with opportunities to hunt pheasant, sharp tailed grouse, sage grouse, and Hungarian partridge.
- The state of North Dakota is predominantly private land, with only 4.48% of the total acres considered huntable public land.
- North Dakota is home to a variety of popular game to hunt, including white-tailed deer, mule deer, pronghorn, elk, and moose.
- Small game hunting in North Dakota includes pheasant, rabbit, squirrel, grouse, and duck.
Table of Contents
Hunters (Based on Hunting Licenses)
| Population: | 779,094 |
|---|---|
| Hunters | 138,679 |
| Hunter % | 17.80% |
| Hunters Rank | 4 |
The state of North Dakota is predominantly private land and only 4.48% of the total acres could be considred huntable public land. In fact, North Dakota ranks #35 overall in acres of public huntable land.
Land Types (Acres)
| Acres | % | Rank | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total | 44,156,200 | ||
| Huntable Public | 1,976,000 | 4.48% | 35 |
| Private Land | 41,754,190 | 94.56% | 12 |
| Tribal Land | 214,600 | 0.49% | 17 |
North Dakota ranks #12 for the percentage of private land vs total acres and number 17 in terms of acres of tribal land.
North Dakota Hunting Seasons & Requirements
For the most accurate information on North Dakota Hunting Seasons, along with the state’s requirements for tag and bag limits, it’s a good idea to check with the North Dakota DNR. We’ve provided their contact information below, along with links to helpful resources, including licensing.
North Dakota DNR
100 N. Bismarck Expressway
Bismarck, ND 58501-5095
- (701) 328-6300
Popular Game to Hunt in North Dakota
Whatever game you’re looking for, North Dakota has it. From deer hunting in the Turtle Mountains, elk hunting in the Badlands to bird hunting in the Pembina Gorge, it’s all there waiting for you.
Small Game Hunting in North Dakota
The most common types of small game hunted in North Dakota are pheasant, rabbit, squirrel, grouse, and duck. Pheasant hunting is especially popular in the western part of the state, where the bird is plentiful. Rabbit and squirrel hunting are common throughout North Dakota, as these animals are found in nearly every county. Grouse and duck hunting are typically done in the northern and eastern parts of the state, where these birds are more prevalent.
Big Game Hunting in North Dakota
The most popular species to hunt in the state are white-tailed deer, mule deer, pronghorn, elk, and moose. All of these animals can be found in abundance in North Dakota, and each offers its own unique challenge. White-tailed deer are the most prevalent big game animal in the state, and they can be found in nearly every county. Mule deer are slightly less numerous than white-tailed deer, but they are still a common sight in North Dakota. Pronghorn are found primarily in the western part of the state, while elk and moose are mostly found in the eastern part.
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Where are the Best Areas to Hunt in North Dakota
North Dakota offers great hunting opportunities across the state, both on public and private land. We’ve included some of the best areas for public hunting below and as we have access we’ll be adding more private land too.
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We’re working with landowners all across North Dakota to provide private land access for more activities. Add your information below to stay up to date.
Popular Public Hunting Land in North Dakota
Little Missouri National Grassland is another popular option, as it offers ample opportunity to hunt a variety of game. For those looking for a more traditional hunting experience, Sully Creek State Game Management Area and Arrowwood National Wildlife Refuge are both excellent choices. Finally, Sheyenne National Grassland provides hunters with a chance to pursue game in a more remote setting.
1. Maah Daah Hey Trail
2. Little Missouri National Grassland
3. Sully Creek State Game Management Area
4. Arrowwood National Wildlife Refuge
5. Sheyenne National Grassland
Hunting Private Land in North Dakota
Since the majority of North Dakota is private land getting access for hunting can be very appealing. When you hunt private land, it’s not only less crowded, the animals also tend to be less skittish and this means you’ll have a better day out in the field. Traditionally, accessing private land for hunting has been complicated and expensive. You either needed to join a club, hire a guide, or start knocking on doors.
Fortunately Wing It is simplifying this for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts of all types. We’re adding new land every day and if we have some in your area, you’ll see some options great below.