INDIANA — As firearm deer hunting seasons quickly approach, the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is encouraging hunters to purchase their licenses and prepare their accounts early using the state’s new digital platform, the Activity Hub.
The DNR anticipates extremely high website traffic between November 14 and November 16, the beginning of the crucial Firearms Season, and is urging users to log in now to avoid last-minute issues.
“Don’t procrastinate – log in to the new system now,” the DNR stated in a recent release. “Acting now leaves you plenty of time to contact us or visit a retailer if you encounter issues. Help us help you get into the field – don’t wait until the last minute.”
Navigating the New Activity Hub
The new licensing system, available at GoOutdoorsIN.com, requires a two-step login process:
- Click the login button on the Hub’s homepage.
- Users will be redirected to Access Indiana, where they must log in or create an account.
- After authenticating through Access Indiana, users will be automatically directed back to the Activity Hub to purchase licenses, apply for reserved hunts, and manage their profiles.
The DNR advises first-time users of the Activity Hub to immediately look up their existing profile in the system and verify that all personal information is correct.
Key Dates for Deer Hunters
Hunters are reminded of the upcoming season dates:
- Archery Season: Oct. 1, 2025 – Jan. 4, 2026
- Firearms Season: Nov. 15 – Nov. 30, 2025
- Muzzleloader Season: Dec. 6- Dec. 21, 2025
- Reduction Zone Season: Sept. 15, 2025 – Jan. 31, 2026 (where open)
Important Changes to Linked Accounts
Hunters who purchase licenses for youth or other family members will need to re-establish those links in the new system, as the process and rules have changed.
In the previous system, “youth accounts” applied to those under 18. In the new Activity Hub, youth accounts are defined as those younger than 13. This change will affect how parents and guardians manage their children’s profiles.
Instructions on how to link accounts for youth (under 13 with or without an existing account) and for those 13 or older are available via a dedicated PDF and video on the DNR’s website.
For questions regarding checking in-game, online accounts, or license-purchasing errors, hunters can call 317-232-4200 or 877-463-6367, or email INHuntFish@dnr.IN.gov.
