Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection

Emergency Burn Ban In Effect 10/26/24 - An emergency burn ban is now in effect for all Connecticut State Parks, Forests, and Wildlife Management areas, prohibiting the use of all outdoor grills, firepits, and campfires, and the kindling and use of flame outdoors. DEEP and local agencies are working to contain several active fires across the state. Please avoid all affected State Parks and Forests, as well as the blue-blazed Mattabesett Trail. The Enduro Trail in Voluntown and portions of North Stonington within the Pachaug State Forest are closed at this time. Rocky Neck State Park is also closed until further notice due to a brush fire. Please note that today's forest fire danger report remains at a 'very high' or 'extreme' level. More information about the current fire danger, burn ban and recommended safety measures can be found here

Pheasant Hunting Roadmap

What you need to know to pheasant hunt in Connecticut

Ring-necked Pheasant

Required Firearms Safety Training

Complete of have completed a Traditional or Self-Study Firearms Safety Class

-or-

Reciprocal certification from another state

Learn more here!

Call 860-424-3011 for assistance.

Legal Equipment

Shotgun

  • 10, 12, 16, 20, 28, or 410 gauge

Shells - suggested size

  • 4, 5, or 6 lead shot or other alloy
  • 3 or 4 steel shot

Suggested Equipment

  • Bird hunting vest
  • Sturdy footwear
  • Brush pants or suitable clothing for thick brush
  • Knife or shears
Check Regulations

Review the CT Hunting and Trapping Guide to check bag limits, season dates, and hunting hours

400 sq. inches of blaze orange required

License purchases required:

  • Firearms Hunting License
  • Resident Game Bird Conservation Stamp
Head into the Field!

Visit one of our pheasant hunting areas!
 

Content last updated in January 2024.