Trapping Seasons
Trapping seasons in New York State generally open in the fall and close in the winter or spring. View the maps below to see when and where you can trap wildlife.
Most trapping seasons are based on geographical units called Wildlife Management Units. For a detailed map showing these units see the Wildlife Recreation Map available from License Issuing Agents and at DEC Offices.
Detailed written descriptions of Wildlife Management Units.
On This Page
Beaver Trapping Seasons
Bobcat Trapping Seasons
Please note that you no longer need to obtain an additional Bobcat Harvest Expansion Area permit to trap bobcat in these areas (WMUs depicted in blue in the map below). The hunting/trapping activity log and submission of the carcass within the Harvest Expansion Area is also no longer required. A trapping license is still required to pursue bobcats during the open trapping season.
If you take a bobcat anywhere in New York State it must be tagged and sealed.
Fisher and Marten Trapping Seasons
If you take a fisher or marten you must complete a furbearer possession tag and get the pelt or unskinned animal sealed.
To trap marten, please contact the DEC Region 5 Wildlife Office in Warrensburg at 518-623-1240 to obtain a permit.
Mink and Muskrat Trapping Seasons
Otter Trapping Seasons
If you take an otter, you must complete a furbearer possession tag and get the pelt or unskinned animal sealed.
Raccoon, Red Fox, Gray Fox, Skunk, Coyote, Opossum and Weasel Trapping Seasons
Reminder: Wolves are protected in NY, and have been documented in the state on rare occasions. Please use care in identifying any large canids you encounter. For information on distinguishing wolves from coyotes, see here.
