Fish and Game and Marine Resources

SB 505 repeals the $34 temporary registration fee for non-resident owners of off-highway recreational vehicles (OHRVs), such as ATVs or snowmobiles. This change affects non-residents who previously paid the temporary fee for short-term use; they will now need to pay the full regular registration fee ($61-$100, depending on OHRV type and nonprofit club membership). The bill removes the temporary registration option, requiring all non-residents to use the standard registration process. This simplifies the fee structure but eliminates the lower-cost short-term option. The change takes effect November 1, 2026.

New Hampshire's CACR 15 proposes adding a constitutional right to hunt, fish, and harvest game to the state constitution. It states that all citizens have this right, including using traditional methods, but only under existing laws and regulations. The amendment specifies that these rules must promote wildlife conservation, maintain resources for public use, and preserve hunting/fishing for future generations. It does not change current laws on property rights, trespass, or eminent domain. The proposal requires voter approval in the November 2026 general election to take effect.

HB 1045 clarifies rules for using artificial lights during nighttime hunting and outdoor activities in New Hampshire. It prohibits using lights (other than normal vehicle headlights and incidental lights like reversing lights during typical driving) to locate or take wildlife between 30 minutes after sunset and 30 minutes before sunrise. Exceptions include agricultural work (e.g., protecting livestock), utility operations, and using lights solely for navigation or property inspection without targeting wildlife. The bill does not change existing nighttime hunting bans but provides clearer guidelines to prevent accidental violations. It takes effect January 1, 2027.

This bill repeals a current law that prohibits possessing ferrets while hunting or traveling to/from hunting. It would allow hunters in New Hampshire to legally use ferrets for hunting, which is currently banned under RSA 207:6. The change takes effect January 1, 2027, removing the existing restriction on ferret possession during hunting activities. The bill specifically targets the prohibition in state law, making no other changes to hunting regulations.

HB 1314 allows New Hampshire residents under 18 to obtain a freshwater fishing license without paying a fee. Minors must present proof of age to the Fish and Game Department when applying. The license will be marked as designated by the department and will not require a fee, replacing the previous requirement for a fee that was collected from 16- and 17-year-olds. The bill takes effect 60 days after passage.