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When Is the Rut in South NH?

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

Short answer: peak rut in South NH typically runs Nov 14 to Nov 24.
Compared with the rest of New Hampshire: peak rut in South NH runs about 4 days earlier than North NH.

South NH Rut Phases

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

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 ← you are here Oct 27 – Nov 7 Nov 7 – Nov 14 Nov 14 – Nov 24 Nov 24 – Dec 3
North NH 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