Knowing Trapping Rules and Regulations

Buy your hunting and trapping license before the season begins. Do not wait until you are ready to hunt or trap before you think about getting a permit. When you buy your license, you should receive a digest of hunting and trapping regulations. Study the regulations closely for any changes. Trapping regulations can change from year to year.

Trapping regulations may include the following information:

• Places to trap
• Species-specific information
• Steps for obtaining a license
• Trapping seasons (dates and hours)
• Lawful trap types and trap sets
• Bag limits
• Other trapping restrictions
• Permit and/or stamp requirements
• Tagging, transporting, and reporting requirements
• Trespass laws

To help make sure you understand all the laws you need to know, review the Trapping Law Questionnaire. Make sure you can answer all the questions. Remember, if you are unsure of a regulation, consult an expert—a game warden, wildlife officer, or conservation agent where you live.

Resources for Trapping Regulations

You may also find trapping regulations through the following resources:

• Official state publications
• State wildlife agency websites
• Access guides and booklets
• Mapping software
• State agency staff