Free Hunting Days

November 16, 2023

Question: When are the next California Free Hunting Days?

Answer: Under state law the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) Director designates two Free Hunting Days. In this license year, they are Nov. 25, 2023, and April 13, 2024. On these days, eligible California residents may hunt without purchasing a California hunting license, provided other requirements are met.

Those requirements include proof of completion of a hunter education course, possession of a valid Free Hunt Days Registration and any required tags, federal entitlements and entry permits. All hunting participants in Free Hunting Days must be accompanied by a hunter at least 21 years of age who possesses a valid California hunting license.

The dates were chosen intentionally to provide the widest variety of hunting opportunities and options for people trying hunting. On Nov. 25, waterfowl seasons and many upland game seasons, from rabbit and squirrel to dove, pheasant, quail and fall wild turkey will be open in various zones throughout the state. April 13, 2024, was chosen with two other popular species in mind, wild pig and wild turkey. More information is available at CDFW’s Free Hunting Days webpage at https://wildlife.ca.gov/Licensing/Hunting/Free-Hunting-Days.