North Dakota’s deer gun hunting season began at noon Central Time on Nov. 6, and Bismarck game officials are urging hunters to follow the state’s safety and reporting rules. District game warden Noah Raitz explained the most important requirements for anyone who earned a deer tag this year.
Wear the Required Blaze‑Orange
Raitz said hunters must display at least 400 square inches of blaze‑orange clothing, including a hat. The bright visibility standard helps prevent accidental shootings and protects both hunters and the public.
Tagging and Marking the Harvest
When a deer is harvested, the first step is to attach the official deer tag immediately. The hunter should notch the date and month on the tag. For antlered deer, the tag belongs at the base of the antlers; for antlerless deer, a small slit is made in the ear and the tag is threaded through it. The carcass tag must stay attached to the animal throughout transport.
Transport Permits for Another Person’s Deer
If you need to move a deer that belongs to someone else, you can obtain a transportation permit by contacting a local law‑enforcement officer or the district game warden’s office. The permit authorizes the legal movement of the animal without violating wildlife regulations.
Understanding Private‑Land Posting
Hunters should look for physical signs on private property indicating that hunting is prohibited. Many landowners also post electronic notices online. Raitz advised checking both physical and digital postings before entering any private area.
What to Do If a Harvested Deer Runs onto Posted Land
Should a legally harvested deer wander onto posted private property, the hunter may retrieve the animal but must not continue the chase. Firearms, bows or muzzleloaders must be left behind. If the deer moves further onto the land, the hunter should contact the landowner to arrange a safe retrieval and avoid interfering with the landowner’s own activities.
Safety and Enjoyment
Raitz closed with a reminder that the season’s most important goal is safety and fun. He encouraged hunters to stay alert, follow the rules, and enjoy the outdoors responsibly.
Anyone who observes a game‑or‑fish violation can report it to the “Report All Poachers” hotline at 701‑328‑9921. For the full list of 2026 deer hunting regulations, visit the North Dakota Game and Fish Department website at gf.nd.gov.
Original reporting: KFYR-TV Bismarck (news) — read the source article.
