Hunting Seasons in Maryland
A Guide to Key Dates and Regulations
This Article is Part of Our Hunting Seasons Guide for All 50 US States
Maryland offers a variety of hunting seasons throughout the year, catering to a wide range of wildlife. From the white-tailed deer to the elusive sika deer, each season is regulated to maintain ecological balance and provide recreational opportunities for hunters. The state sets specific dates, bag limits, and hunting methods to ensure sustainability and hunter safety. Each year, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) updates its regulations to reflect changes in wildlife populations and habitats.
The spring turkey season is a notable period for Maryland hunters, with specific dates allocated for hunting these birds. Regulations are in place to dictate the daily shooting hours and the use of equipment during this season. Additionally, deer hunting in Maryland is subject to regional variations, with different rules for taking antlered and antlerless deer to manage the population effectively. Hunters are expected to be aware of the changes in season dates and bag limits which are published annually in the Maryland Guide to Hunting and Trapping.
Maryland Hunting Overview
Maryland offers a diverse range of hunting seasons, catering to hunters interested in various game species. The state's Department of Natural Resources (DNR) manages these seasons to ensure sustainable wildlife populations and to provide economic benefits.
Hunting in Maryland
Maryland's hunting seasons are meticulously planned to provide opportunities across the state. The state is known for game such as deer, turkey, and waterfowl. For example, the wild turkey spring season is typically open statewide with specific shooting hours: before sunrise to noon in early spring, extending until sunset as the season progresses. Certain counties may also offer Sunday hunting.
Key Hunting Seasons:
Wild Turkey Spring Season: April 18 - May 9 (Sunrise to Noon), May 10 - May 23 (Sunrise to Sunset)
Deer: Specific dates vary by deer species and hunting region
Waterfowl: Varies by type (e.g., Canada Goose, Ducks, etc.)
Department of Natural Resources (DNR)
The Maryland DNR is responsible for setting regulations and providing guidance for hunting seasons. They address wildlife management and conservation, ensuring hunter safety, and enhancing economic activity through various hunting activities. The DNR also manages the Black Bear Lottery and the Chronic Wasting Disease Management Area, overseeing hunting practices to prevent disease spread.
Maryland Game Program
The Maryland Game Program fosters wildlife habitat and management programs for game species. The program ensures balanced seasons and the well-being of the wildlife populations. Hunters in Maryland are expected to follow the guidelines provided by the Maryland Guide to Hunting & Trapping, a comprehensive source for the latest regulations, season dates, and safety tips provided by the DNR.
Licenses and Regulations
In Maryland, hunters are required to adhere to specific licensing requirements and regulations to engage in hunting legally. These requirements are designed to manage wildlife sustainably and ensure hunter safety.
Hunting Licenses
Maryland offers a variety of hunting licenses to residents and non-residents, each catering to different species and seasons. A basic Maryland hunting license allows hunting for all legal game birds and mammals in season, with the exception of deer during Archery and Muzzleloader Seasons, migratory game birds, furbearers, sika deer, and black bears. For these species, additional permits or stamps are necessary.
Hunter Education
Before obtaining a hunting license, individuals must complete a hunter education course to be eligible. This course is mandatory and provides essential information on safe hunting practices, wildlife conservation, and the responsibilities of a hunter.
Hunting Regulations
The state imposes specific hunting regulations that dictate when and where individuals can hunt, which include the setting of season dates, bag limits, and hunting zones. Maryland Department of Natural Resources publishes an annual Guide to Hunting and Trapping detailing these regulations.
Permits and Stamps
Certain game requires additional permits and stamps. For instance, a Bonus Antlered Deer Stamp may be used with a basic license. Meanwhile, apprentice licenses are available for those under 16, and these can be purchased multiple times. Sika deer have a separate stamp introduced recently. Regulations now require trappers to include their DNRid number on traps and snares under some circumstances.
Seasons and Game Species
Maryland offers diverse hunting opportunities across the state, with specific seasons allocated for different game species. Managed deer hunts and public dove fields are orchestrated to ensure responsible wildlife management and provide ample opportunities for hunters.
Deer Hunting Seasons
White-tailed Deer:
Archery: Sept. 8 - Oct. 18; Oct. 23 - Nov. 24; Dec. 11 - Dec. 15; Jan. 5 - Jan. 31, 2024
Firearms: Nov. 25 - Dec. 9; Dec. 16 (only in Region B)
Muzzleloader: Dec. 16 - Dec. 30; Jan. 4 - Jan. 6, 2024
Sika Deer:
Archery: Sept. 8 - Oct. 18; Oct. 23 - Nov. 24; Dec. 11 - Dec. 15; Jan. 5 - Jan. 31, 2024
Firearms: Nov. 25 - Dec. 9
Muzzleloader: Dec. 16 - Dec. 30
Bear Hunting Seasons
Black Bear:
Dates for the black bear hunting season are determined yearly. A hunter must possess a Black Bear Hunting Permit.
Small Game Seasons
Squirrel: Sept. 2 - Feb. 28, 2024
Rabbit: Nov. 4 - Feb. 28, 2024
Quail (What wine goes well with quail?): Nov. 4 - Jan. 15, 2024 (only in certain counties)
Ruffed Grouse: Oct. 7 - Jan. 31, 2024 (only in Garrett County and Allegany County west of Evitts Creek)
Migratory Bird Seasons
Aug. 26 - Oct. 14; Nov. 22 - Nov. 24; Dec. 16 - Jan. 13, 2024
Note: Hunting is allowed on public dove fields during specified seasons.
Woodcock: Nov. 4 - Nov. 24; Dec. 16 - Jan. 31, 2024
Waterfowl Seasons
Duck: Seasons vary by zone, generally starting in October and having splits running through January.
Canada Goose:
Resident Population Zones: Sept. 2 - Sept. 30; Nov. 18 - Dec. 9; Dec. 16 - March 10, 2024
Migratory (Atlantic) Population Zones: Nov. 18 - Nov. 24; Dec. 12 - Jan. 31, 2024
To participate in the sika deer hunting or black bear seasons, hunters may be required to obtain a special Sika Deer Stamp or Black Bear Hunting Permit. Hunting regulations are subject to change, and it is recommended that hunters check the latest guidelines from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources before planning their hunt.
Hunting Methods and Equipment
Maryland offers diverse hunting experiences, allowing hunters to utilize various methods and equipment. Each method requires adherence to state-specific regulations to ensure safety and conservation.
Firearm Hunting
Firearm hunting is a traditional approach in Maryland and encompasses a range of weapons including shotguns, handguns, and rifles. Hunters must use specific calibers and ammunition depending on the game species they are pursuing. For instance, deer hunters often use larger caliber rifles for effective harvest. The state implements safety zones, typically 150 yards from occupied structures, unless written permission is granted to hunt closer.
Archery Hunting
Archery equipment includes longbows, recurve bows, compound bows, and crossbows. The state requires a minimum draw weight of 30 pounds for vertical bows and a minimum draw weight of 75 pounds for crossbows. Hunters utilizing archery must also comply with specific safety zone regulations which may differ by county. For example, Wicomico and Worcester Counties have a 50-yard safety zone for archery hunting.
Muzzleloader Hunting
Muzzleloaders are firearms that are loaded from the muzzle and include flintlocks, caplocks, or modern in-line black powder firearms. The state permits muzzleloader hunting for certain game during designated seasons. Hunters must use .40 caliber or larger for deer hunting with muzzleloaders. Muzzleloader hunters should be proficient with their equipment as these firearms demand a unique skill set for loading, shooting, and maintaining.
Trapping
Trapping in Maryland is a method used for fur-bearing animals like coyote, fox, and raccoon. The state mandates that trappers complete a Trapper Education Course. They are also required to check their traps at least once per 24 hours. Trapping regulations detail permissible trap types and sizes, which are designed to be both effective and humane.
Each hunting method has a prescribed season and set of regulations developed by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) to sustain healthy wildlife populations and provide equitable hunting opportunities across the state.
Hunting Areas and Public Lands
Maryland offers a diverse array of public lands suitable for hunting, providing ample opportunities for hunters to pursue game across various regions.
Public Land and Access
Public lands in Maryland are accessible for hunting and include a variety of terrain types across the state. Statewide accessibility initiatives ensure that public hunting areas are available to all, including disabled hunter access points. Hunters can find Wildlife Management Area (WMA) maps online or through state resources to plan their excursions.
Statewide Public Lands
Statewide, hunters can explore numerous public lands which include Cooperative Wildlife Management Areas, Fishery Management Areas, and lands managed by the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission. Maryland also boasts a network of State Forests, State Parks, and Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs), which vary by allowed activities and managed species.
State Forests: Chesapeake Forest Lands and more
State Parks: Natural Environment Areas, Natural Resources Management Areas, etc.
WMAs: With WMA maps available for reference
Regional Public Lands
Region A encompasses the western part of Maryland, including Allegany, Garrett, and Washington counties, known for their mountainous landscapes and hardwood forests. In contrast, Region B covers the central part of the state, including Frederick County with its mix of agricultural and forested areas.
Region A: Known for whitewater opportunities and rich game
Allegany County: Offers a rugged terrain popular among hunters
Washington County: Features diverse hunting landscapes
Region B:
Frederick County: Balances game populations across agricultural plots and woodlands
Each region provides unique habitats and hunting experiences for a variety of wildlife. Detailed information on each region can be found through official state resources, ensuring hunters can plan according to their preferences and the species they are interested in.
Hunting Bag Limits
In Maryland, hunting bag limits vary by species and are subject to special conditions on certain days or for specific types of hunts. Adherence to these limits is critical for maintaining a sustainable wildlife population and ensuring a fair opportunity for all hunters.
Bag Limits by Species
White-tailed Deer:
Regular Season: Statewide limit is two antlered deer, one per weapon season.
Region B: Possibility of a third antlered deer with a Bonus Antlered Deer Stamp.
Waterfowl: Specific bag limits are established annually and can vary depending on the species and time within the season.
For accurate and up-to-date information, hunters should consult the Maryland Department of Natural Resources or the latest season regulations'.
Special Hunting Bag Limits
Junior Deer Hunt Days: These days offer a separate, typically more generous, bag limit to encourage youth participation and mentorship in hunting.
Managed Deer Hunts: May have specific bag limits that differ from the regular season. These hunts often aim to control populations in certain areas.
Big Game Check-In: After harvesting, hunters are required to check in their big game, which aids in tracking harvest numbers and ensuring compliance with bag limits.
Hunters must familiarize themselves with these regulations before participating in any hunting season to ensure legal and ethical hunting practices.
Special Hunting Seasons and Programs
Maryland offers several specialized hunting seasons and programs tailored to promote wildlife management, conservation, and hunting heritage. These include opportunities for young hunters, specific Sunday hunting provisions, and managed hunt programs aimed at controlling deer populations.
Youth and Junior Hunting
Youth Hunt Days are designated periods when young hunters, under the supervision of an adult, can gain experience in the field. These days often precede the regular season, providing a less pressured environment. For white-tailed deer, the Youth Deer Hunt Day is typically set in the fall.
Junior Hunters: Individuals aged 16 and under can participate in junior hunts.
Sunday Hunting
Sunday hunting in Maryland is permitted in certain counties on specified dates. This additional day offers increased flexibility for hunters to practice their sport and aids in effective wildlife management. Regulations and permitted game species vary by county, so hunters should confirm the local rules.
Sunday Hunting Allowed: Approved counties offer hunting for various game species, including deer, on select Sundays throughout the season.
Managed Hunt Programs
Managed Deer Hunts are organized events aimed at maintaining balanced deer populations. Maryland's Department of Natural Resources conducts these controlled hunts in certain areas, with:
Specific Dates: Managed hunts occur within regulated time frames, often outside of the regular hunting seasons.
Location-specific Permits: Hunters may need to apply for special permits or participate in a lottery system to be selected for these hunts.
These targeted hunts are crucial for mitigating deer-human conflicts and promoting forest regeneration while providing hunters additional opportunities to harvest deer.
Conservation and Ethics
In managing natural resources, Maryland upholds a commitment to conservation and promotes ethical hunting practices. It emphasizes sustainable wildlife populations and gives hunters the responsibility to comply with regulations and assist in policing unlawful activities.
Wildlife Management
Maryland's Department of Natural Resources (DNR) coordinates wildlife management efforts to sustain healthy ecosystems. Through enforcing seasons and bag limits, they strive to maintain balanced wildlife populations. Such regulations reflect careful scientific evaluations and aim to prevent overharvesting, ensuring natural resources are preserved for future generations.
Hunter's Responsibility
Hunters in Maryland are considered active stewards of the environment. It is their duty to:
Adhere to set seasons and limits.
Participate in conservation efforts.
Report any sightings of Chronic Wasting Disease.
This involvement supports the DNR's mission while promoting a culture of respect for wildlife and other hunters.
Wildlife Crime Stoppers
The Maryland Wildlife Crime Stoppers offers a channel for individuals to anonymously report violations of wildlife laws. It operates under these guidelines:
Reports can be made via phone or online.
Anonymity of informants is upheld to encourage reporting.
Rewards are available for information leading to the arrest or issuance of citations for wildlife crimes.
Efforts to combat illegal activities are vital in safeguarding wildlife and habitats across the state.
Additional Hunting Opportunities
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources has expanded hunting opportunities for various species, reflecting changes in wildlife management strategies.
Furbearer Seasons
In Maryland, hunters have specific seasons in which they may pursue furbearers, including but not limited to bobcat, otter, mink, and raccoon. The muskrat, opossum, skunk, and weasel are also classified under furbearer seasons, offering hunters a diverse range of species. Notably, the black bear hunt is a highly regulated furbearer season requiring a special drawing for permits.
Other Species to Hunt
Beyond furbearers, Maryland provides regulated seasons for hunting other species. Birds such as crow, rail, snipe, brant, woodcock, and light geese are included in the list of huntable species. Sea ducks present unique hunting opportunities along Maryland's coastlines. Hunters should refer to the Maryland Hunting Seasons Calendar for specific dates, as migratory patterns can influence season schedules.
