Introduction
US Hunting Seasons 2025 bring exciting opportunities for hunters across Alabama, Missouri, Virginia, and California. Knowing when specific seasons start and end — and how to get your license — helps you plan your best hunts yet.
Overview of 2025 US Hunting Seasons
Hunting seasons are set by each state’s wildlife agency and vary by species, weapon type (archery, firearms, muzzleloader), zone, public vs private land, and conservation concerns. For example, managing deer herds or controlling diseases like chronic wasting disease can affect season lengths and methods.
In the states we cover here, you’ll see a mix of archery, firearms and special seasons. Knowing your zone and method ensures you’re legal and ready.
Alabama Deer Season 2025
When Does Deer Season Start in Alabama?
In Alabama, the 2025–2026 deer seasons begin as early as October 15, 2025 in many zones for archery-stalk hunting. Outdoor Alabama+2stateoutdoors.org+2 For example: Zone A archery starts October 15 and runs through February 10, 2026. eRegulations+1
When Does Deer Season End in Alabama?
Depending on the zone and method, the season can extend into early 2026. For Zone A: archery-stalk through February 10, 2026. eRegulations+1 For gun deer on private land in Zone A: November 22, 2025 through February 10, 2026. Outdoor Alabama+1
Important Notes
- Alabama divides the state into Zones A-E plus CWD management zones, each with different dates. stateoutdoors.org+1
- Bag limits and sex restrictions vary by zone and method (e.g., antlered vs either sex). Outdoor Alabama
- Always check the exact zone map for your county before you go.
Missouri Deer Season 2025
When Does Deer Season End in Missouri?
In Missouri, the 2025–26 archery deer season runs September 15, 2025 to November 14, 2025, and then again November 26, 2025 to January 15, 2026. mdc.mo.gov+1 The firearms deer season has key periods: for example, November 15-25, 2025 is the November firearms portion. mdc.mo.gov+1
Important Notes
- Archery closes for a short gap between November 14 and November 26 before the late archery season. mdc.mo.gov
- The “alternative methods” firearms season runs December 27, 2025 to January 6, 2026. mdc.mo.gov+1
- Hunters must pay attention to county-specific rules: antler-point restrictions, CWD management zones, youth portions. mdc.mo.gov+1
Tip
If you’re looking for “when does deer season end in Missouri”, note that for the late archery portion it ends January 15, 2026. That’s your latest possible end date under those rules.
Virginia Hunting Season 2025
When Does Hunting Season Start in Virginia?
For deer in Virginia, the early archery season statewide begins October 4, 2025. DWR Virginia+1 The general firearms season opens November 15, 2025 in many areas. DWR Virginia+1
Important Notes
- Some urban archery/antlerless only seasons start earlier: for example, September 6 through October 3 in certain counties. DWR Virginia+1
- Private land vs public land differences may apply; check local county regs.
Key Takeaway
When someone searches “when does hunting season start in VA”, the safe answer is October 4, 2025 (archery) and for firearms November 15, 2025 — but always check your county.
California Hunting Regulations & Licensing 2025
How to Get a Hunting License in California
Here’s a step-by-step:
- Complete a California–approved hunter education course (or equivalent from another state) to satisfy certification. wildlife.ca.gov
- Obtain a California GO ID (your account for licenses).
- Purchase your hunting license online (wildlife.ca.gov), at a license sales office or via an authorized agent. wildlife.ca.gov+1
- Big-game tags (for deer, elk, etc) may require a drawing application. wildlife.ca.gov
- License runs from July 1 through June 30 of the next year. wildlife.ca.gov
Important Notes
- License fees: Licenses are different for residents vs non-residents. wildlife.ca.gov
- Free Hunt Days: California also designates free hunting days, but licensing rules still apply. wildlife.ca.gov
Why This Matters
If you’re asking “how to get a hunting license in California”, this covers the key steps. Having the license in place ensures you’re legal before you worry about season dates.
Comparing Seasons Across States
Here’s a quick comparison of the states covered:
| State | Earliest Season Start | Latest Season End | Licensing / Key Rule |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | October 15, 2025 (archery) | February 10, 2026 (Zone A archery) | Zone check + bag limits differ |
| Missouri | September 15, 2025 (archery) | January 15, 2026 (late archery) | County rules, youth portions, CWD zones |
| Virginia | October 4, 2025 (archery) / Nov 15 for firearms | Varies — into Jan 2026 in many areas | County differences, urban archery options |
| California | Licensing open July 1 etc | Season dates vary widely by zone & species | Must complete hunter ed + get license |
Note: The “latest end” listed is the latest publicly listed end date for major methods — specific zones may have shorter windows.
Expert Tips for 2025 Hunters
- Double-check your zone: Many states divide into zones with different start/stop dates.
- Understand the method: Archery vs firearms vs muzzleloader vs alternative methods each have their own windows.
- Finish licensing early: Especially in states like California, you’ll want your license and tags secured before the season opens.
- Watch disease zones: In Missouri and Alabama for example, disease-management zones (CWD) can affect open counties and methods.
- Mark your calendar: Use the earliest date as your “go” date and the latest date as your “last shot” date but aim earlier for best success.
- Check for updates: Wildlife agencies publish “what’s new” sections each year and may adjust dates or rules. DWR Virginia+1
FAQs – 2025 US Hunting Seasons
Q: When does deer season start in Alabama?
A: In Alabama the archery-stalk season begins October 15, 2025 in many zones. Outdoor Alabama+1
Q: When does deer season end in Missouri?
A: The late archery deer season in Missouri ends January 15, 2026. mdc.mo.gov+1
Q: How do I get a hunting license in California?
A: Complete a hunter-education course, get your GO ID, then purchase the license (resident or non-resident) online or via a sales office; supplies big-game tag applications if needed. wildlife.ca.gov+1
Q: When does hunting season start in Virginia?
A: The early archery deer season in Virginia begins October 4, 2025. Firearms for many areas begin November 15, 2025. DWR Virginia+1
Q: Can I hunt without a license if I’m visiting from another state?
A: Generally no. In states like California you must meet hunter-education requirements and purchase the proper license. Always check for nonresident licenses and tag requirements in the specific state.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re heading out to Alabama, Missouri, Virginia or California in 2025, knowing the dates, methods, zones and licensing requirements gives you a solid advantage. At minimum: get licensed early, check your exact open dates for your zone, and stay updated through your state’s wildlife agency the week before you go. Stay safe, follow regulations, and good luck out in the field!
