(photo from Indiana Forest Alliance)

The Indiana Department of Natural Resources is proposing changes to the state’s bobcat season, along with a broader package of updates to fish and wildlife regulations.

The bobcat proposal follows Indiana’s first regulated season in 2025, when 253 bobcats were harvested within one month. State officials say the next step is to expand opportunities while managing the population.

Under the proposed rule, the season would expand to allow hunting in addition to trapping. The statewide quota would increase to 400 bobcats, with the season running from November 8 through January 31, or until the quota is reached.

The DNR says the changes are intended to reduce negative interactions between bobcats and people in about 40 counties with strong habitat, while maintaining a stable population.

In addition to the bobcat proposal, the department is considering a wide range of wildlife rule changes.

Those include updates to deer hunting regulations to align with new state law, including removing certain rifle restrictions and allowing newer muzzleloader systems that load powder from the breech.

The agency is also proposing to increase antlerless deer limits in Fayette and Franklin counties following recovery from disease impacts, and to expand options for nuisance animal control permits.

Other proposed changes would remove armadillos from the state’s list of exotic mammals, allowing them to be taken year-round, and update equipment rules for taking frogs, including allowing additional gear types.

Public hearings on both the bobcat rule and the broader wildlife package are scheduled for May 19 at Fort Harrison State Park in Indianapolis, with options to attend in person or online. Written comments will also be accepted through that date.

The proposals are currently in the public comment phase and could be revised before final adoption.