INDIANA — The Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has announced key rule updates for the upcoming 2026/2027 bobcat season, expanding harvest opportunities to include hunting alongside trapping and raising the statewide season quota to 400 bobcats.
The season will run from November 8, 2026, through January 31, 2027. However, state wildlife officials noted the season will close early if the 400-bobcat quota is reached before the end of January.
The bag limit remains strictly one bobcat per licensed individual per season, and the list of open counties authorized for harvest remains unchanged from last year.
Season Preparation and Registration Mandates
Hunters and trappers planning to participate are urged to consult the official Indiana DNR Hunting & Trapping Guide to review equipment restrictions, specific license requirements, and proper tagging procedures before heading into the field.
Participants must adhere to a mandatory two-step reporting process for all harvested bobcats:
- Initial Electronic Check-In: All harvested bobcats must be registered with the DNR within 24 hours of harvest. Harvesters can check in online using the CheckIN Game system at GoOutdoorsIN.com or by calling 260-368-5880.
- Physical Registration & CITES Tagging: Hunters and trappers are required to skin the animal and separate the pelt from the carcass. The pelt must then be presented to a designated DNR employee or official furbearer registration station within 15 days following the month of harvest for physical inspection and CITES tagging.
A full directory of official furbearer registration stations across the state is available at on.IN.gov/bobcat-season.
Once the season opens on November 8, participants can monitor real-time tally updates toward the 400-bobcat harvest limit online or by calling 317-232-4200.
