Hunting in California

Hunting in California

About Hunting in This State

California offers one of the most diverse hunting experiences in the country. Stretching from the Pacific coastline to the Sierra Nevada and from high desert to redwood forests, the Golden State is home to an incredible variety of landscapes, wildlife, and hunting opportunities.

Hunters travel to California in pursuit of Columbian blacktail deer, tule elk, wild pigs, black bear, and numerous upland game birds. The state also provides outstanding waterfowl hunting along the Pacific Flyway, where managed wetlands, agricultural fields, and wildlife refuges attract millions of migrating ducks and geese each season.

California's wild pig population has made it one of the premier destinations for guided hog hunts, with opportunities available across private ranches throughout the state. Hunters can also experience unique adventures pursuing tule elk - a species found only in California - or chasing mountain quail, pheasant, dove, and other upland birds.

Whether you're looking for a coastal blacktail hunt, an unforgettable elk adventure, or a fast-paced waterfowl trip, California offers hunting experiences unlike anywhere else in North America.

California Tags & Licenses

Tags & Licenses

Hunters in California must purchase the appropriate licenses and tags through the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). Requirements vary by species and hunting zone.

Resident & Nonresident Licenses

• Annual hunting licenses are available for residents and nonresidents.
• Hunters must possess a valid California hunting license before purchasing tags.

Deer

• Deer tags are issued through both over-the-counter and drawing systems depending on the hunt zone.
• California offers numerous archery and general season opportunities.

Elk

• Tule, Roosevelt, and Rocky Mountain elk hunts are available through a highly competitive limited-entry draw.
• Successful applicants must hunt within designated zones.

Wild Pigs

• Wild pigs may be hunted during established seasons with the appropriate validations and licenses. (Regulations are subject to change, so hunters should always verify current requirements.)

Black Bear

• Bear hunting regulations are reviewed regularly and may change based on wildlife management decisions. Hunters should consult current CDFW regulations before planning a hunt.

Waterfowl
Waterfowl hunters must possess:

• California hunting license
• Federal Duck Stamp
• California Duck Validation
• HIP registration

Hunters should always review current season dates, tag availability, quotas, and regulations before booking a guided hunt.

Species You Can Hunt in California

Elk

Rio Grande Wild Turkey

Turkey

Bear