DelawareHB 278153rd General Assembly (2024–2026)House

AN ACT TO AMEND TITLE 7 OF THE DELAWARE CODE RELATING TO REGULATIONS AND PROHIBITIONS CONCERNING GAME AND FISH.

Sponsored By: Jeffrey N. Spiegelman (Republican)

Signed by Governor

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

5 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 2 mixed.

More firearm options for Delaware hunters

Qualifying handguns and rifles are allowed during firearm deer seasons and a separate January season. The January season runs from the first Saturday through the second Sunday following that Saturday. Eligible deer-hunting lands include private land south of the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal, designated state lands, and department-approved deer-control farms. Handguns must be revolvers or single-shot pistols with barrels 5.75–12.5 inches long, carried openly in a holster or on a sling. Allowed straight-wall ammunition is .30–.50 caliber, with cartridge cases 1.30–1.82 inches long. The .38-caliber exception allows cases at least 1.29 inches long. Rifles require open sights, qualifying straight-wall ammunition, and no more than three cartridges in the chamber and magazine combined. Qualifying handguns and rifles are also allowed for hunting game animals. Delaware’s Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control can permit projectile weapons for deer, game animals, and game birds unless another law bars them. This authority does not guarantee approval, and remotely operated or discharged weapons remain prohibited.

More muzzleloader options for Delaware hunters

During Delaware’s primitive weapon season, hunters can use muzzle-loading rifles with a bore of at least .40 inch. Primer ignition is allowed, and rifles no longer have a minimum powder charge. The minimum ball size drops from .42 to .40 caliber; multi-projectile loads and explosive bullets are prohibited. Deer hunting during this season remains limited to a muzzle-loading rifle or bow. When a rifle is used, the wildlife department can approve a single-shot muzzle-loading pistol only to finish off wounded game. That pistol must be at least .40 caliber and use a powder charge of at least 40 grains.

More Sunday hunting for Delaware hunters

Sunday hunting or pursuit is allowed for dog training, red fox hunting with dogs, and commercial game-preserve operations. It is also allowed during department-set seasons, on private land at the owner’s choice, and through department deer-control programs. Public land must be designated by the responsible government agency after public comment. Sunday hunting remains prohibited outside the listed exceptions. The law also removes a former Sunday restriction on certain raccoon trapping or dog hunting in New Castle and parts of Kent County.

Hunters face new game animal rules

The law adds skunk and weasel to Delaware’s game animal list and removes hare. Rabbit remains listed. It also makes the Bryant fox-squirrel protected wildlife, so hunters cannot take it as game.

Raccoon hunters get options and limits

Raccoon and opossum hunters can use rimfire pistols without the former .22-caliber requirement; no replacement caliber limit is stated. Killing these animals is barred from one hour before sunrise through one hour after sunset. Trapping and hunting with dogs follow periods set by Delaware’s wildlife department. Statewide box-type trapping is allowed with trap openings no larger than 195 square inches. Additional trapping and hunting allowances in New Castle County and specified parts of Kent County require landowner permission.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Jeffrey N. Spiegelman
Republican • House

Cosponsors

Eric Buckson
Republican • Senate
William J. Carson
Democratic • House
Kerri Evelyn Harris
Democratic • House
Gerald W. Hocker
Republican • Senate
Kyra L. Hoffner
Democratic • Senate
Dave G. Lawson
Republican • Senate
Brian Pettyjohn
Republican • Senate
Nicole Poore
Democratic • Senate
David L. Wilson
Republican • Senate

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 57 • No: 1

Senate vote • 5/7/2026

Passed (SM required)

Yes: 19 • No: 0

House vote • 3/17/2026