2025 North Dakota deer season is set

BISMARCK, N.D. (KFYR) - The deer opener for North Dakota is Nov. 7, 2025. Licenses are down 7,800 from last year to 42,300.

Casey Anderson, North Dakota Game and Fish Department wildlife division chief, said population, harvest and survey data indicate the state’s deer population is stable to decreasing throughout the state.

“The state’s deer population continues to recover from the 2021 EHD outbreak and the severe winter of 2022-23, which limited population growth despite reduced gun licenses during 2023 and 2024 hunting seasons. Modest license allocations are intended to maintain hunting opportunities while encouraging population growth in the state,” said Anderson.

Applicants can apply online through the Game and Fish Department’s website. The deadline to apply is midnight on June 4.

Those who didn’t apply last year will lose accrued points by not applying or purchasing a point this year.

Total deer licenses are determined by harvest rates, aerial surveys, depredation reports, hunter observations, input at advisory board meetings and comments from the public, landowners and department field staff.