Prince Edward Island Outdoor Calendar 2025-26: Your Guide to Island Wildlife Opportunities
Welcome to your complete guide for planning an outdoor adventure in Canada’s smallest province! Whether you’re a local resident looking to explore your backyard or a visitor drawn to PEI’s beautiful landscapes, this comprehensive overview covers everything you need to know about hunting opportunities, permit requirements, and regulatory updates for the 2025-2026 calendar.
Prince Edward Island offers unique opportunities that differ significantly from other Canadian provinces. While you won’t find the big game hunts available in provinces like Alberta or British Columbia, PEI provides excellent waterfowl experiences and smaller game pursuits that attract enthusiasts from across the Maritime region.
📅 Quick Reference Points
Here’s what awaits outdoor enthusiasts in PEI during the 2025-2026 game calendar:
- Waterfowl: Ducks, geese, and snipe with extended seasons running October through January
- Small Game: Ruffed grouse, snowshoe hare, and other upland species
- Furbearers: Fox, coyote, and raccoon with varied schedules
- Migratory Birds: Federal permit required in addition to provincial licenses
- Sunday Activity: Now permitted across the province (recent regulatory change)
- Youth Opportunities: Special programs and mentorship options available
- Weapon Options: Firearms, archery, and muzzleloader depending on species and area
🦝 Furbearer Season Dates
Prince Edward Island provides excellent furbearer opportunities with several species available throughout the winter months:
| Species | Season Dates | Daily Bag Limit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Red Fox | November 1 – February 28 | No limit | Provincial species, excellent pelts |
| Coyote | Year-round | No limit | Population management focus |
| Raccoon | November 1 – January 31 | No limit | Trapping and firearms permitted |
| Muskrat | November 15 – April 15 | No limit | Water trapping opportunities |
Trapping permits and regulations apply. Check current provincial guidelines for method restrictions and area closures.
🐦 Small Games Dates
The province offers diverse small game opportunities that provide excellent sport and table fare:
| Species | Open Season | Daily Bag Limit | Possession Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ducks (excluding specific sea ducks) | October 1 – January 15 | 6 (not more than 1 Barrow’s Goldeneye) | 18 (not more than 1 Barrow’s Goldeneye) |
| Sea Ducks (Eiders, Scoters, Long-tailed Ducks, Mergansers) | October 1 – January 15 | 6 (not more than 4 Eiders and 4 Scoters) | 12 (not more than 8 Eiders and 8 Scoters) |
| All Geese, combined | September 1 – September 15 | 5 (plus additional 5 Canada/Cackling Geese) | 20 |
| All Geese, combined | October 1 – December 31 | 5 (Oct 1 – Nov 14), 3 (Nov 15 – Dec 31) | Not specified |
| Woodcock | September 29 – December 13 | 8 | 16 |
| Snipe | October 1 – December 31 | 10 | 20 |
🦆 Complete Waterfowl Seasons
Waterfowl opportunities represent some of PEI’s premier outdoor experiences, with the island’s coastal location providing excellent migration routes:
| Species | Season Dates | Daily Bag Limit | Possession Limit | Special Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ducks (Federal) | October 1 – January 15 | 6 | 18 | Federal MGBH permit required |
| Canada Geese | September 1 – December 24 | 5 | 15 | Federal MGBH permit required |
| Brant | October 1 – January 15 | 2 | 6 | Federal MGBH permit required |
| Snipe | September 15 – December 24 | 10 | 30 | Federal MGBH permit required |
| Woodcock | October 1 – November 30 | 8 | 24 | Federal MGBH permit required |
All migratory bird activities require both federal Migratory Game Bird Permit and provincial licenses. Non-toxic shot mandatory except for woodcock.
🐗 Other Available Game
Additional species provide supplementary opportunities throughout various parts of the schedule:
| Species | Season Dates | Bag Limits | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mourning Dove | September 1 – October 31 | 12 daily | Federal permit required |
| European Starling | Year-round | No limit | Considered invasive species |
| House Sparrow | Year-round | No limit | Non-native species management |
🗺️ Zones Active for Wildlife Activities
Prince Edward Island operates as a single wildlife management unit, simplifying zone regulations compared to larger provinces. However, specific area restrictions apply:
Provincial Zones:
- Single statewide management unit
- Municipal firearm discharge restrictions apply
- National park areas require separate permits
- Private property permission always required
Key Area Considerations:
- Urban areas: No firearm discharge within municipal boundaries
- Provincial parks: Check individual park regulations
- Federal lands: Additional permits may be required
- Coastal areas: Respect private property and conservation easements
For detailed maps and boundary information, consult the official PEI Wildlife Division website and current regulatory publications.
🎟️ Licenses, Tags & Permits
Prince Edward Island’s licensing system is designed to be straightforward while ensuring proper conservation and safety:
Resident Licenses:
- General License: $27.50 (includes Wildlife Conservation Fund)
- Three-Day Consecutive: $15.00 (waterfowl, furbearers, upland game)
- Youth (under 16): $5.00 with adult supervision
Non-Resident Licenses:
- General License: $87.50 (includes Wildlife Conservation Fund)
- Three-Day Consecutive: $47.50 (limited species)
- Export Permit: Free (required for all game leaving PEI)
Federal Requirements:
- Migratory Game Bird Permit: $17.05 (required for all waterfowl)
- Canadian Wildlife Habitat Conservation Stamp: Included with permit
- Youth Federal Permit: Free (under 18 years)
Additional Requirements:
- Hunter Safety Course completion certificate
- Firearms Safety Course (if using firearms)
- Bow Safety Course (if using archery equipment)
- Wildlife Conservation Fund fee (included in most licenses)
❓ Prince Edward Island Quick FAQ
Can I pursue activities on Sundays in PEI?
Yes! Recent regulatory changes now permit Sunday activities throughout the province, making PEI more accessible for weekend outdoor enthusiasts.
What makes PEI different from other Maritime provinces?
PEI focuses primarily on waterfowl and small game rather than big game species. The island’s unique ecosystem and size create different wildlife management needs compared to Nova Scotia or New Brunswick.
Do I need a federal permit for waterfowl?
Absolutely. All migratory bird activities require both a federal Migratory Game Bird Permit and the Wildlife Habitat Conservation Stamp, regardless of your provincial license.
Can non-residents participate in PEI seasons?
Yes, but non-resident licenses cost significantly more than resident permits. You’ll also need a free export permit to transport any game off the island.
What shot restrictions apply?
Non-toxic shot is mandatory for all waterfowl and most migratory species. Lead shot remains legal for woodcock and some upland game species.
Are there opportunities for youth participants?
PEI offers reduced-cost youth licenses and encourages mentorship programs. Youth under 18 can obtain free federal migratory bird permits.
What about Sunday opportunities?
Recent changes now allow Sunday activities throughout PEI, though municipal firearm restrictions still apply within town and city limits.
🔗 List of Related Guides
For comprehensive Maritime region planning, explore these additional provincial guides:
- Complete Nova Scotia seasons and regulations
- Detailed New Brunswick opportunities including big game options
These neighboring provinces offer expanded species lists and different regulatory frameworks that complement PEI’s unique offerings.
Conclusion
Prince Edward Island provides distinctive opportunities that reflect the island’s special character and ecosystem. While the province may not offer the extensive big game options found in western Canada, PEI’s waterfowl experiences, coastal environments, and small game pursuits create memorable outdoor adventures.
The recent addition of Sunday activities and extended waterfowl seasons demonstrates PEI’s commitment to expanding access while maintaining responsible wildlife management. Whether you’re pursuing ducks along the island’s productive marshes, tracking snowshoe hares through winter woodlands, or managing furbearer populations, PEI offers authentic Canadian outdoor experiences in a more intimate setting.
Remember to verify all current regulations, purchase required permits well in advance, and always prioritize safety and conservation ethics. The island’s outdoor community welcomes both residents and visitors who approach these activities with respect for wildlife, landowners, and fellow outdoor enthusiasts.
Consider bookmarking this page for updates as the 2026-2027 season approaches—regulations and opportunities continue to evolve as PEI adapts its wildlife management strategies.
