Hawaii Hunting Seasons: What You Need to Know
Hunting in Hawaii isn’t like hunting anywhere else. You’re not freezing in a tree stand, waiting for something to wander by. You’re out in stunning, wild landscapes, chasing some of the most elusive, high-energy game animals on the planet. And if you’re here for axis deer? Good news—you can hunt them year-round (but we’ll get to that in a second).
Before you book a trip and start dreaming about fresh venison and trophy racks, let’s break down Hawaii’s hunting seasons, what’s in season when, and what you need to know before heading out.
Hawaii Hunting Seasons: Planning Your Trip Accordingly
Hawaii Axis Deer Hunting Season
First things first: there is no set Hawaii hunting season for axis deer in Hawaii–and that’s pretty cool.
Yep, you read that right. Axis deer are invasive—they’re wreaking havoc on the native ecosystem, and the state wants their numbers kept in check. That means you can legally hunt axis deer year-round on private lands with the right permits.
Best Time to Hunt Axis Deer in Hawaii
Just because you can hunt them year-round doesn’t mean every time of year is ideal. If you want to increase your odds of taking down a quality buck, consider this:
Spring (March – May): Bucks are in hard antler, and their coats are at their best.
Summer (June – August): Peak rut season. Bucks are more aggressive, more active, and easier to locate—but also more unpredictable.
Fall (September – November): Post-rut. Bucks are recovering, and you’ll find solid animals if you’re patient.
Winter (December – February): Cooler weather makes hunting more comfortable, and deer are focused on feeding.
Best bet? June – August if you want to go after big, aggressive bucks.
Other Big Game Hunting Seasons in Hawaii
If you’re thinking about hunting more than just axis deer, Hawaii offers some insane opportunities for wild game. Here’s Hawaii hunting seasons:
Feral Goats
✔ Public Land Season: Year-Round (Permitted Hunts & Special Seasons Apply)
✔ Private Land Season: Year-Round
These aren’t your grandpa’s farm goats—Hawaii’s feral goats are wild, fast, and tough as heck. They’re a fun hunt, and the best populations are found on Molokai, Maui, and the Big Island.
Feral Pigs
✔ Public Land Season: Year-Round (Certain Units Have Special Rules)
✔ Private Land Season: Year-Round
Wild pigs in Hawaii are a huge problem—they tear up native plants, wreck farmlands, and reproduce like crazy. That means you can hunt them year-round, and you don’t need a tag to do it. Just get permission if you’re on private land.
Best method? Spot-and-stalk or dogs & knives. Yes, you read that right—Hawaiian hunters take these things down with dogs and knives, and it’s not for the faint of heart.
Black Hawaiian Sheep
✔ Public Land Season: Limited Season (Unit G - Mauna Kea, permits required)
✔ Private Land Season: Year-Round
Black Hawaiian sheep are one of the most underrated hunts in Hawaii. They’re big, tough, and have incredible horns, making them a top-tier trophy animal.
Best spot? The Big Island. Private ranches offer some of the best hunts, with high success rates and solid rams.
Mouflon Sheep
✔ Public Land Season: Limited Season (Usually August - October, Permit Required)
✔ Private Land Season: Year-Round
Best spot? Lanai. The island has a strong population of purebred mouflon, and the public land lottery draws hunters from all over.
When’s the Best Time to Hunt in Hawaii?
Want big axis deer? June – August (but they’re huntable year-round).
Want black Hawaiian sheep? Go private, any time of year.
Want the challenge of a lifetime? Enter the mouflon sheep draw (and cross your fingers).
Just want to put meat in the freezer? Feral pigs and goats are always in season.
No matter what you’re after, Hawaii offers some of the most unique hunting in the world. It’s not just about the animals—it’s about chasing them in some of the most rugged, beautiful terrain you’ll ever set foot in. Knowing the Hawaii hunting seasons means that you’re better prepared for the most adventureous (and fruitful) hunt on the islands!
So, what’s your next hunt gonna be?
Call Kaluakoi Outfitters and get in the game.
Because if you’re gonna hunt in Hawaii, you might as well do it right.
Book your guided Axis deer hunting trip today. Kaluakoi Outfitters offers a range of packages sure to suit whatever kind of hunt you’re looking for. They are the island experts on axis deer hunts and are familiar with Hawaii hunting seasons, so it doesn't matter when you book your trip–they know where to take you any time of year.
