North Dakota small game, furbearer regs see changes

North Dakota’s 2017 small game and furbearer regulations are set, and while most season structures are similar to last year, there are some notable changes:

• Fur harvesters will have an opportunity to take river otters, with a season limit of 15 taken by traps or cable devices. A limit of one per person is allowed during this season.
• As per North Dakota Century Code, snares (cable devices) must be permanently affixed with a metal or plastic tag to include the person’s name, address and telephone number, or an equipment number.
• The delayed pheasant opening area in Williams and McKenzie counties is eliminated. The pheasant season will open statewide Oct. 7.
• Prairie chicken and sage grouse seasons will remain closed due to low populations.

In accordance with state law, nonresidents are not allowed to hunt on Game and Fish Department wildlife management areas or conservation PLOTS (Private Land Open To Sportsmen) areas from Oct. 7-13.

Hunters should refer to the North Dakota 2017-18 Small Game and Furbearer guides (available mid-August) for more details on small game and furbearer seasons. Printed waterfowl guides will be available in early September.

Opening and closing season dates, and daily and possession limits.