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When Is the Rut in North NH?

New Hampshire rut phase dates for the 2026 season. North NH is one of 2 distinct rut zones in New Hampshire — timing here runs on its own schedule.

Short answer: peak rut in North NH typically runs Nov 18 to Nov 28.
Compared with the rest of New Hampshire: peak rut in North NH runs about 4 days later than South NH.

North NH Rut Phases

Region Pre-Rut Seeking Peak Rut Post-Rut
North NH Nov 1 – Nov 12 Nov 12 – Nov 18 Nov 18 – Nov 28 Nov 28 – Dec 7

Every Rut Zone in New Hampshire

Hunting a different part of the state? Peak dates shift.

Region Pre-Rut Seeking Peak Rut Post-Rut
South NH Oct 27 – Nov 7 Nov 7 – Nov 14 Nov 14 – Nov 24 Nov 24 – Dec 3
North NH ← you are here Nov 1 – Nov 12 Nov 12 – Nov 18 Nov 18 – Nov 28 Nov 28 – Dec 7
How to use these dates. Rut timing is driven mainly by photoperiod, so these windows hold up well year to year. What moves is visible daylight activity — cold fronts, wind, and hunting pressure shift when deer move inside the window. Use the dates to pick your week, then the daily forecast to pick your morning. Always verify seasons with your state agency.
Check today's hunting conditions → All New Hampshire rut dates

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New Hampshire rut overviewNew Hampshire season dates 2026–27Taxidermists in New HampshirePlan a hunt in New Hampshire