Trapping License
Connecticut Trapping
License 2026
Complete guide to trapping licenses in Connecticut - resident and nonresident fees, trap check hours, regulated species, pelt reporting requirements, and bobcat or otter permit rules. Connecticut requires a trapper education course and a trapping license. Trapping opportunities focus on beaver, muskrat, mink, fox, coyote, and raccoon. Significant trap size and placement restrictions apply.
24-Hour Trap Check
Separate From Hunting License
2026 Trapping License Quick Facts
Verified 2026
Resident Fee
$19.00
Annual license
Nonresident Fee
$55.00
Annual license
Trap Check
24h
Max hours between checks
Junior Fee
-
See agency for youth rates
License Details
Connecticut Trapping License Requirements
Connecticut requires a valid trapping license to trap furbearing animals. Review all requirements before setting traps.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Resident Fee | $19.00 |
| Nonresident Fee | $55.00 |
| Separate From Hunting License | Yes - separate purchase required |
| Trapper Education Required | Yes |
| Trap Check Requirement | Every 24 hours |
| Trap Tagging Required | Yes - name & address required |
| Pelt Reporting Required | Not required |
| Bobcat Permit Required | Not required |
| Otter Permit Required | Not required |
| Trap Type Restrictions | Foothold traps may not exceed 5.75" jaw spread. Body-gripping traps larger than 7"x7" must be set in water. No trapping within 100 feet of a public road or 200 feet of an occupied dwelling without written permission. |
| Water Set Minimum Depth | 6 |
Regulated Species
Trappable Species in Connecticut
The following furbearing species may be legally trapped in Connecticut with the appropriate license and during open seasons. Some species may require additional permits.
Season & Limits
Connecticut Trapping Season Dates & Bag Limits
Season Dates
mink: Nov 2 - Feb 28
otter: Nov 2 - Feb 28
beaver: Nov 2 - Mar 31
Bag Limits
otter: check current limits
Public Land Trapping
Trapping on Public Land in Connecticut
Trapping allowed on Connecticut state wildlife management areas during designated seasons. State parks generally prohibit trapping.
Important Notes
Connecticut-Specific Trapping Rules
Connecticut requires a trapper education course for first-time trappers. Bobcat is not a legal target species in Connecticut. The state has good beaver and muskrat populations in riparian habitats despite its small size.
Source: Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (portal.ct.gov).
Requirements verified 2026. Always confirm current fees, seasons, and permit requirements directly with the agency before trapping.