Delaware


Delaware Muzzleloader Hunting Season 2023-2024

SeasonDates
MuzzleloaderStatewide
Oct 6 – 15
Jan 22 – 28
Updated for the 2023-2024 Season

Muzzleloaders must be loaded from the muzzle using any manufacturer’s approved propellant and they may be equipped with a scope.

During the Delaware Muzzleloader Hunting Season it is unlawful to transport a muzzleloader with a charge in the barrel unless the cap or primer is removed and the gun is enclosed in a case or the striking mechanism is removed. A muzzleloader should be no smaller than .42 caliber.


Delaware Muzzleloader Hunting Season Firearms and Archery Equipment rules:

  • Have a loaded firearm, or a cocked crossbow, in or on a motorboat while underway, or in, against, or on a motor vehicle or farm machinery.
  • Transport a muzzleloader with a charge in the barrel unless the cap or primer is removed and the gun is enclosed in a case or the striking mechanism is removed.
  • Hunt at night (1/2 hour after sunset to 1/2 hour before sunrise) except that frogs, raccoons and opossum may be hunted at night using a handheld light.
  • Take game using a shotgun larger than 10 gauge, a fully automatic loading gun (machine gun), or use a centerfire rifle, except groundhogs, foxes and coyotes may be hunted with a centerfire rifle.
  • Use a shot larger than No. 2, except when hunting deer. Waterfowl hunters may use non-toxic shot up to size T.
  • Use a shotgun capable of holding more than three shells in total except for snow geese during the Conservation Order.
  • Use poison or explosive tip arrows.
  • Use a punt or swivel gun or any gun not normally fired from the shoulder.

  • Visit the Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife for more information.


    Additional Links

    DELAWARE HUNTING SEASONS
    2023-2024 HUNTING AND TRAPPING GUIDE
    RECREATIONAL LICENSING

    Knight RiflesAmerica’s Muzzleloader!

    Buy a muzzleloader

    Find Products

    Back to all states

    Buy a muzzleloader in Delaware online!