Indiana Opens Public Comment on Expanded Bobcat Hunting Rules
The Indiana Natural Resources Commission (NRC) has initiated a public comment period for proposed changes to wildlife rules, including expanding the bobcat hunting season. The proposal aims to increase the bobcat harvest quota to 400, allowing hunting in addition to trapping, to reduce negative interactions in 40 counties with high-quality bobcat habitat. The season is set to begin on November 8, 2026, and run through January 31, 2027, or until the quota is met. Other proposed changes include adjustments to deer hunting regulations, such as allowing certain muzzleloaders and increasing antlerless deer bag limits in specific counties. The public can submit comments online or by mail until May 19, 2026, with public hearings scheduled for the same date.