EDGEFIELD, S.C. — Connecticut hunters and conservation advocates are currently celebrating the passage of Public Act 25-138, which authorizes Sunday hunting on private lands. Provisions will take effect on October 1, 2025.
This act repeals the longstanding ban on Sunday hunting and will now allow hunting on private properties of 10 acres or more on Sundays. Hunters must possess written permission from the landowner and display it while hunting. The act prohibits hunting within 40 yards of public trails, including blue-blazed and federally designated trails and maintains Sunday closures for migratory bird hunting.
The act is a major success because lifting the ban creates more equitable opportunities for those who participate in outdoor sports. It offers a full day of opportunity for those who work during the week to get into the woods.
Connecticut has historically followed what are known as blue laws, which restrict or prohibit certain activities on Sundays. The first major shift came in 2015, when the state legalized Sunday archery deer hunting on private lands.
The NWTF and its partners hope to see similar amendments enacted in other states, helping to preserve America’s hunting heritage, improve access and increase opportunities for future generations.
“The passage of Sunday hunting legislation in Connecticut is a big win for hunters, conservation and the future of our outdoor traditions,” said Kaylee Szymanski, NWTF district biologist. “By expanding access and opportunity, this law helps ensure that more people, especially youth and working families, can participate in wildlife conservation through regulated hunting. We applaud the state for taking this meaningful step to increase recreational access and support the hunting community.”
About the National Wild Turkey Federation
Since 1973, the National Wild Turkey Federation has invested over half a billion dollars into wildlife conservation and has positively impacted over 24 million acres of critical wildlife habitat. The NWTF has also invested over $10 million into wild turkey research to guide the management of the wild turkey population and to ensure sustainable populations into perpetuity. The organization continues to deliver its mission by working across boundaries on a landscape scale through its Four Shared Values: clean and abundant water, healthy forests and wildlife habitat, resilient communities, and robust recreational opportunities. With the help of its dedicated members, partners and staff, the NWTF continues its work to provide Healthy Habitats. and Healthy Harvests. for future generations.
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