Vermont is a full-inclusion crossbow state: crossbows are legal anywhere bow and arrow are allowed, including the October 1 – December 15, 2026 archery deer season and the September 15 – 30 expanded archery season in designated zones. Equipment rules are specific: at least 125 pounds pull, a working safety, a 23-inch minimum stock and broadheads at least 7/8 inch wide.
Terrain & Hunting Landscape
Vermont’s landscape is dominated by the rugged Green Mountains, mixed hardwood forests, and pastoral agricultural valleys near Lake Champlain. The terrain is often steep and densely wooded.
White-tailed deer are the primary focus, alongside black bear, wild turkey, and ruffed grouse. Moose hunting is highly restricted and managed through a lottery system.
Public Hunting Areas
Green Mountain National Forest, Dead Creek WMA, Wenlock WMA, Gale Meadows WMA, and the West Mountain WMA.
Crossbow & Bowhunting Culture
Hunting is constitutionally protected and viewed as a 'field-to-freezer' lifestyle. There is a deep-seated respect for the land and a tradition of opening private, unposted land to respectful public use.
Season Overview
2026 archery deer season runs Oct. 1 – Dec. 15; expanded archery season Sept. 15 – 30 in designated zones. Crossbows are legal wherever bow and arrow are permitted, with a 125-pound minimum pull, working safety and 23-inch minimum stock. Archery equipment may not be carried during the October or December muzzleloader deer seasons.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a crossbow during Vermont's archery deer season?
Yes. Crossbows may be used during any season where bow and arrow are permitted, including the full archery deer season and the expanded archery season in designated zones.
Do I need a disability permit to use a crossbow in Vermont?
No. Vermont allows crossbows for all hunters during archery seasons without a disability permit.
What are Vermont's crossbow equipment requirements?
A legal crossbow must have a minimum pull of 125 pounds, a working mechanical safety and a stock at least 23 inches long. Bolts must carry broadheads with at least two sharp cutting edges and at least 7/8 inch width.
Are there archery-only or crossbow zones in Vermont?
Vermont has designated Expanded Archery Zones where the September 15 – 30 expanded archery season applies; crossbows are legal there. Archery equipment may not be carried during the October or December muzzleloader deer seasons.
What licenses do I need to bowhunt in Vermont?
You need a Vermont hunting license plus an archery license, except nonresidents who buy the archery-only deer license. First-time archery deer license buyers must complete bowhunter education.
Can I hunt moose or turkey with a crossbow in Vermont?
Yes, crossbows are allowed during archery turkey and moose seasons, but hunters must complete bowhunter education to hunt moose or turkey with a crossbow.
Can I hunt on private land in Vermont without explicit permission?
Vermont law allows hunting on private land that is not 'posted' against it, though hunters are strongly encouraged to seek landowner permission as a courtesy.
Are antlerless deer legal during the regular rifle season in Vermont?
Recent regulatory changes now allow the harvest of antlerless deer during the regular November rifle season in specific Wildlife Management Units (WMUs).