When is Rabbit Hunting Season in Your State? (2026)

Rabbit hunting is also a practical part of population control and a great way to give your dogs a run. Rabbit hunting season varies by location, and hunters should know when they can legally pursue rabbits before heading out into the field. Let's take a look at rabbit hunting season dates, timing tips, and rabbit behavior throughout the year. 

When Can You Hunt Rabbits?

The rabbit hunting season varies by state or zone, so it's always best to start by checking the relevant state wildlife authority page. Rabbit season typically occurs in the fall and winter months: hunters have a lower risk of encountering infected animals at these times, and rabbits are protected during breeding seasons. In states such as Missouri, rabbit season usually runs from October/November through February/March. 

Hunting outside the allocated hunting windows is illegal and can harm the rabbit population, especially during breeding seasons. While the state authority may set daily hunting hours, the best times to target are early morning and late afternoon (if permitted), when rabbit activity is highest. At these times, rabbits seek low-light conditions to evade predators and eat. 

When is Rabbit Hunting Season in My State?

Rabbit season dates vary and depend on the target subspecies, hunting zone, and other restrictions. Check the chart below for season dates in your state.

To confirm the current season dates for rabbit hunting, always double-check the website of your local wildlife department. The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife and other state websites also provide hunting tips and insights on bag limits and dressing.

What Are the Best Months to Hunt Rabbits?

November through February are generally the best months for rabbit hunting, especially around January and February. Later in the rabbit hunting season, many deciduous plants and trees shed their leaves, reducing cover for rabbits and making them easier to track, spot, and flush, especially in thick brush zones.

Some rabbit hunters prefer early spring because the growth of grass and forbs means more rabbits are out searching for food. Try a few different hunting windows, find your own rhythm, and determine which times work best for you. 

Cooler temperatures also trigger rabbit activity, increasing the chance of encountering them during daylight hours. Fresh snow makes it easy for hunters to track rabbit movement, as their silhouettes stand out against a clear white landscape. Winter rabbit hunting also means fewer parasites, such as ticks and fleas, and better meat for the table; only the healthiest, best-conditioned rabbits typically survive the winter. 

During What Months Should You Not Eat Rabbit Meat?

If not handled correctly, rabbits can carry diseases. Many hunters avoid eating rabbit meat during the warmer months (May through September) because rabbits typically host more fleas, ticks, and other parasites during this time. Consider only eating rabbit meat in months with an "R" in the name (September through April).

Rabbit populations are also vulnerable in warmer months due to breeding and nursing seasons. In addition to being illegal, shooting rabbits at this time may be unethical. 

What Do Rabbits Do During the Spring?

Spring is the breeding season for most rabbit species. Female rabbits, known as does, can produce multiple litters, typically 3–5 per year. 

During this time, rabbits build nests of grass to shelter their young, and they often stay hidden to avoid predators. They begin to eat fresh greens, shoots, and new plant growth, and highly nutritious tender grass, wild shoots, and forbs become staples of their spring diets. 

Find the Best Rabbit Hunting in Your State With HuntWise 

Rabbit hunting is one of the most popular hunting pursuits in North America. Though rabbit hunting season may be shorter or more restricted in some locations, it's available in every state, and well worth the effort to get out there and have a go. 

HuntWise can help you stay on top of season dates, explore potential hunting zones using a range of mapping overlays, and access pro tips and gear discounts. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

We have answers to your questions about rabbit hunting season!

Q: When can you hunt rabbits?

A: Rabbit hunting is typically allowed during fall and winter, but exact dates depend on your state or country. Always check local hunting regulations.

Q: What are the best months to hunt rabbits?

A: The best months to hunt rabbits are typically late fall through winter (often October–February). This time of year is when rabbits are more active during the day, and pelts and meat are in better condition.

Q: What months should you not eat rabbit meat?

A: Many hunters avoid eating rabbit meat in the warmer months (roughly May–September) due to a higher risk of diseases like tularemia and increased parasites.

Q: When is rabbit hunting season?

A: In most regions, rabbit season opens in fall and closes in late winter or early spring, but seasons vary widely by location.

Q: What do rabbits do during the spring?

A: Spring is the breeding season for rabbits. This is when they mate, build nests, and raise young, making them less desirable (and often illegal) to hunt during this time.