Opportunities for Rabbit Hunters in Vermont
Vermont’s mix of thick woodlots, overgrown fields, and snow-covered hillsides offers some of the best winter rabbit hunting in New England. Vermont also offers hunting opportunities for other game such as deer, highlighting the diverse hunting experiences available in the state. A small game license is required for hunting rabbits in Vermont. With a long season, strong populations of cottontails and snowshoe hares, and abundant public land, the Green Mountain State provides traditional cold-weather hunting opportunities that reward persistence and careful scouting.
Rabbit Behavior and Habitat
Cottontails prefer dense thickets, alder swamps, brushy field edges, and areas with abundant shrubs, while snowshoe hares are found in conifer swamps, young spruce stands, and second-growth timber. Gray squirrels are also abundant in similar habitats, providing additional small game hunting opportunities. Base cover, consisting of dense trees and shrubs, is essential for snowshoe hares as it provides shelter during the day. Cottontails are the brown rabbits found in lower areas, contrasting with the white snowshoe hares. Both species use heavy cover for protection and move most actively during the early morning and late afternoon, especially following fresh snowfall. Following rabbit tracks in fresh snow to locate their feeding areas is a useful technique. Additionally, brush piles created from clearing land or natural debris are common hiding spots for rabbits. Understanding the food source of small game, such as specific trees and types of nuts, can enhance hunting success. The forest floor is an important foraging ground for small game animals like squirrels.
Licensing and Seasons
Rabbit hunting in Vermont typically runs from the fall through the end of February. It is important to check the season dates for hunting rabbits to ensure compliance with state regulations. A valid hunting license is required for both residents and non-residents. Snowshoe hares and cottontails have different bag limits, so hunters should be sure to review current regulations. The bag limit for snowshoe hares and cottontails can vary depending on the geographical region within each state, so it is crucial to stay informed.
Best Areas for Rabbit Hunting
Northern Forests and Woodlots
The forests of northern Vermont, particularly in Orleans, Essex, and Caledonia counties, offer prime habitat for snowshoe hares and cottontails. The Northeast Kingdom is another prime area for hunting snowshoe hares, known for its dense, coniferous forests. Focus on thick spruce stands and overgrown logging areas, and be sure to cover various ground, such as hardwood groves and brush piles, to increase your chances of encountering game. Following tracks in the snow quietly and observing for any signs of movement can lead to a successful hunt.
Brushy Fields and Swamp Edges
Throughout the state, lowland brush, abandoned fields near swamps, and the edges of agricultural land provide excellent cottontail cover. The Champlain Valley is another excellent area for hunting cottontail rabbits and gray squirrels, known for its diverse habitats. Work slowly through heavy brush and field edges after snowfalls. Another effective technique is walking through the brush in a line to flush out rabbits from their cover.
Wildlife Management Areas
Public lands like Victory Basin WMA and West Mountain WMA provide access to thousands of acres of prime rabbit and hare habitat for hunters willing to hike and scout. Additionally, the availability of federal land offers even more opportunities for hunting activities. Travel cover, consisting of taller trees with a more open understory, is crucial for snowshoe hares as it allows them to move between their denser base cover areas, where they spend more time during the day.
Tips for Successful Cold Weather Hunts
Follow Fresh Tracks
Snow makes it easier to find rabbit trails, bedding areas, and feeding spots. By following fresh tracks and being patient, hunters can have hope for a successful hunt. Following fresh tracks in the snow is crucial as it often leads to rabbits or hares holed up in thick cover. To increase your chances of success, you can either jump on brush piles to scare out cottontails or adopt a slower, stealthy approach to provoke a rabbit to jump out from its hiding spot.
Dress for the Weather
Layer clothing for warmth and moisture management. Waterproof boots, gaiters, and gloves are essential for cold, snowy conditions.
Use a Lightweight Shotgun
A .410, 20-gauge, or light 12-gauge shotgun with an improved cylinder choke is perfect for fast, close-range shots.
Bring a Rabbit Dog
Dogs play an important role in enhancing the hunting experience and successfully capturing game like rabbits. A beagle or similar scent hound excels at tracking and flushing rabbits through deep snow and tangled cover.
Conclusion
Vermont’s cold winters and varied terrain create a classic rabbit hunting experience. Whether tracking snowshoe hares in the deep woods or working brush lines for cottontails, hunters who embrace the elements and scout carefully will enjoy traditional small game hunts in some of New England’s most scenic settings.
FAQs
When is rabbit season in Vermont?
Rabbit season typically runs from fall through the end of February.
Do I need a license to hunt rabbits?
Yes. A valid hunting license is required.
What shotgun should I use for rabbits?
A .410, 20-gauge, or light 12-gauge shotgun with an improved cylinder choke is ideal.
Where are the best places to hunt rabbits?
Northern forests, brushy fields, swamp edges, and Wildlife Management Areas offer excellent habitat. The southwestern foothills are also prime habitats for cottontail rabbits. These rabbits thrive around brush hedgerows, thickets, and overgrown creek bottoms, particularly at the edges of agricultural land.
Are snowshoe hares and cottontails hunted differently?
Yes. Snowshoe hares, also known as varying hares, prefer dense spruce and conifer forests, while cottontails use lowland brush and edges.
Travel cover, consisting of taller trees with a more open understory, is crucial for snowshoe hares as it allows them to move between their denser base cover areas, where they spend more time during the day.
Is it better to hunt rabbits after snowfall?
Yes. Fresh snow highlights tracks and concentrates rabbit and hare activity. Cottontail rabbits can often be seen sitting in the winter sun to warm up, making them more visible and easier to catch.
Can I use a dog for rabbit hunting?
Yes. Beagles and other scent hounds are excellent for tracking and flushing rabbits and hares.
What time of day is best for rabbit hunting?
Early morning and late afternoon when rabbits are moving and feeding.
Are there bag limits for rabbits?
Yes. Vermont sets daily bag limits for cottontails and snowshoe hares. Always check current regulations.
Can non-residents hunt rabbits in Vermont?
Yes. Non-residents can hunt rabbits with the appropriate license.
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