Maryland Hunting Seasons 2025-2026 – Dates, Licenses & Game Management Areas
Planning your next outdoor adventure in the Old Line State? You’ve come to the right place! This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Maryland’s 2025-2026 game calendar, from whitetail archery dates to waterfowl permits. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or picking up your first bow, we’ll walk through the essential information to help you make the most of this upcoming year.
Maryland offers some of the East Coast’s most diverse wildlife opportunities, with seasons running from early September through late March. The state’s varied landscapes – from the Chesapeake Bay marshes to Appalachian ridges – provide habitat for everything from trophy deer to migrating waterfowl. Let’s dive into what this year has in store.
📅 Quick Reference Points
Here’s your at-a-glance summary of Maryland’s major wildlife calendar for 2025-2026:
Prime Big Game Dates:
- Archery Opens: September 5th (deer and sika)
- Firearms Season: November 29 – December 13
- Muzzleloader: October 16-18, December 20 – January 3
- Bear Season: October 20-25 (permit required)
Key Waterfowl Periods:
- Early Canada Goose: September 1-15
- Duck Season (Eastern): October 1 – November 28, December 15 – January 31
- Youth Waterfowl Days: Various dates in October and November
Small Game Highlights:
- Dove Season: September 1 start
- Squirrel: September 6 – February 28
- Rabbit: November 1 – February 28
- Turkey Spring: April 18 – May 23
Legal Methods by Season:
- Archery: Compound, recurve, crossbow (where permitted)
- Firearms: Shotgun, rifle, handgun (county restrictions apply)
- Muzzleloader: Traditional and inline designs
- Youth opportunities: Special dates with mentor requirements
Big Game Overview
Maryland’s big game opportunities center around white-tailed deer, sika deer, and black bear. The state uses a two-region management system (A and B) with different bag limits and regulations for each area.
| Species | Method | Dates | Bag Limit | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| White-tailed Deer (Antlered) | Archery | Sept 5-Oct 15, Oct 19-Nov 28, Dec 15-19, Jan 4-8, Jan 12-31 | 2 total (all seasons) | 1 per weapon season max |
| Muzzleloader | Oct 16-18, Dec 20-Jan 3 | Same as above | Bonus stamp available | |
| Firearms | Nov 29-Dec 13, Jan 9-11 (Region B) | Same as above | County weapon restrictions | |
| White-tailed Deer (Antlerless) | Archery | Same as antlered | Region A: 2 total, Region B: 15 | Daily limits apply |
| Muzzleloader | Same as antlered | Region A: 2 total, Region B: 10 | Oct 16-18 limited to 1 deer total in Region A | |
| Firearms | Same as antlered | Region A: 2 total, Region B: 10 | Suburban zone unlimited | |
| Sika Deer | All Methods | Same as white-tailed | 3 deer (1 antlered max) | Sika stamp required |
| Black Bear | All Methods | Oct 20-25 | Permit system | Zone-specific permits |
Region Breakdown:
- Region A: Western Maryland (Allegany, Garrett, western Washington County)
- Region B: Central and Eastern Maryland (remaining counties)
Important Antler Restrictions: Maryland enforces a statewide antler point restriction. Hunters may take one antlered deer that doesn’t meet the three-point minimum, but any additional antlered deer must have at least three points on one side.
Turkey Schedule
Wild turkey opportunities span three distinct periods, each offering unique challenges and rewards.
| Season Type | Dates | Bag Limit | Legal Methods | Special Regulations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring Season | April 18 – May 23, 2026 | Check current regulations | Shotgun, archery, crossbow | Bearded birds only |
| Fall Season | November 1-9, 2025 | Check current regulations | Same as spring | Either sex legal |
| Winter Season | January 22-24, 2026 | Check current regulations | Same as spring | Limited opportunity |
| Youth Hunt | April 11-12, 2026 | Same as regular | Same as regular | Adult supervision required |
Turkey Hunting Notes:
- Spring season focuses on breeding males (gobblers)
- Fall opportunities allow harvesting either sex
- Youth hunters must be accompanied by licensed adult
- Some public lands may have additional restrictions
Furbearer Opportunities
Maryland’s furbearer seasons provide year-round and seasonal opportunities for both hunters and trappers.
| Species | Season Dates | Method | Permit Required | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Coyote | Year-round | Hunt/trap | Hunting license | No closed season |
| Beaver | December 15 – March 15 | Trap only | Furbearer permit | County variations |
| Fox (Gray/Red) | November 1 – February 15/28 | Hunt/trap | Furbearer permit | County group differences |
| Muskrat & Mink | November 1 – March 15 | Trap only | Furbearer permit | Wetland species |
| River Otter | December 15 – March 15 | Trap only | Furbearer permit | Limited zones |
| Raccoon/Opossum | October 15 – March 15 | Hunt/trap | License varies | Year-round chasing allowed |
| Groundhog | Year-round | Hunt | Hunting license | Agricultural pest status |
Trapping Requirements: All furbearer trapping requires completion of Maryland’s trapper education course and purchase of a furbearer permit. Some counties have specific regulations regarding trap types and setbacks from roads or waterways.
Small Game Section
Small game provides excellent opportunities for new hunters and year-round enthusiasts alike.
| Species | Season Dates | Daily Bag Limit | Possession Limit | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gray Squirrel | September 6 – February 28 | 5 | 15 | Most popular small game |
| Cottontail Rabbit | November 1 – February 28 | 5 | 15 | Excellent for beginners |
| Quail | November 1 – January 15 | 5 | 15 | Closed in Allegany/Garrett |
| Pheasant | November 1 – February 28 | 5 | 15 | Stocked on some public lands |
| Ruffed Grouse | November 1 – February 28 | 5 | 15 | Mountain counties best |
| Crow | August 15 – March 15 | No limit | No limit | Wednesday-Saturday only |
| Mourning Dove | September 1 – October 9 | Check federal regulations | Check federal regulations | Split season possible |
Small Game Tips:
- Squirrels offer the longest season and most opportunities
- Public Wildlife Management Areas provide excellent access
- Consider Delaware hunting seasons for additional nearby opportunities
- Hunter orange required during certain periods
Complete Waterfowl Calendar
Waterfowl enthusiasts enjoy some of Maryland’s finest opportunities, with the Chesapeake Bay serving as a major flyway corridor.
| Species | Zone | Dates | Daily Bag | Possession |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ducks | Eastern | Oct 1-Nov 28, Dec 15-Jan 31 | Federal limits apply | 3x daily bag |
| Western | Oct 4-18, Nov 15-28, Dec 16-Jan 31 | Federal limits apply | 3x daily bag | |
| Canada Goose | Early Resident | September 1-15 | Check regulations | Check regulations |
| Late Resident | December 19-January 3, January 14-31 | 5 daily | 15 possession | |
| Southern MD Late | November 22-28, December 15-March 7 | 5 daily | 15 possession | |
| Light Goose | Conservation | February 9 – April 15 | No limit | No limit |
| Brant | Regular | Check federal framework | Federal limits | Federal limits |
| Teal | Early | September dates | Federal limits | Federal limits |
| Rails/Snipe | Various | Check current regulations | Federal limits | Federal limits |
| Woodcock | Fall | Check current regulations | Federal limits | Federal limits |
Waterfowl Requirements:
- Federal duck stamp ($29) required for all waterfowl hunters over 16
- Maryland Migratory Game Bird Stamp ($15) required
- HIP registration completed annually
- Steel shot or approved non-toxic ammunition only
- Electronic calls permitted for certain species
Other Available Game
Maryland’s diverse ecosystems support additional wildlife opportunities throughout the year.
| Species | Season | Method | Limits | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Woodcock | Fall migration period | Shotgun | Federal bag limits | Migratory species |
| Rails (King/Virginia) | September-November | Shotgun | Federal bag limits | Marsh habitat |
| Common Snipe | Fall through winter | Shotgun | Federal bag limits | Wetland areas |
| Mourning Dove | September 1 start | Shotgun | Federal bag limits | May have split season |
Special Regulations:
- All migratory birds require federal and state stamps
- Shooting hours typically one-half hour before sunrise to sunset
- Some species have specific ammunition restrictions
- Check current federal frameworks for any changes
Hunting Zones & Public Lands
Maryland divides into multiple management zones depending on the species being hunted. Understanding these boundaries is crucial for compliance.
Primary Zone Systems:
Deer Management Regions:
- Region A: Allegany, Garrett, and western Washington County
- Region B: All remaining counties
- Suburban Zone: Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Howard, Montgomery, Prince George’s (unlimited antlerless during archery)
Waterfowl Zones:
- Eastern Zone: Eastern Shore counties
- Western Zone: Western Maryland counties
- Special Management Areas: Various refuges and controlled areas
Firearms Restrictions by County:
- Shotgun/Straight-wall Only: Most central Maryland counties
- All Legal Firearms: Western and some Eastern Shore counties
- Handgun Specifications: Some areas allow bottleneck cartridge handguns
Popular Public Hunting Areas:
- Patuxent Research Refuge
- Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge
- Assateague Island National Seashore
- Green Ridge State Forest
- Savage River State Forest
Public Land Resources: Visit Maryland DNR’s Public Lands website for detailed maps, regulations, and access information. Many areas require advance registration or permits.
Permits, Tags & Licenses Details
Getting properly licensed is your first step toward a successful Maryland adventure. Here’s the complete breakdown of fees and requirements for 2025-2026.
| License Type | Resident | Nonresident | Valid Period | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Regular Hunting License | $35.00 | $160.00 | Aug 1 – July 31 | Base license for all game |
| Junior License (Under 16) | $15.00 | $80.00 | Same as above | Parent/guardian permission required |
| Senior License (65+) | $5.00 | $65.00 | Same as above | Available in year of 65th birthday |
| Apprentice License | $15.00 | $40.00 | Same as above | First-time hunters only |
| 3-Day Waterfowl/Small Game | N/A | $65.00 | 3 consecutive days | Excludes deer, bear, turkey |
Required Stamps & Add-ons:
| Stamp/Permit | Resident | Nonresident | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Archery Stamp | $6.00 | $25.00 | Required for bow deer seasons |
| Muzzleloader Stamp | $6.00 | $25.00 | Required for muzzleloader deer seasons |
| Sika Deer Stamp | $10.00 | $200.00 | Required to hunt sika deer |
| Bonus Antlered Deer Stamp | $10.00 | $25.00 | Additional antlered deer in Region B |
| Maryland Migratory Bird Stamp | $15.00 | $15.00 | All migratory game birds |
| Federal Duck Stamp | $29.00 | $29.00 | Required for waterfowl (16+ years) |
| Furbearer Permit | Additional | Additional | Trapping and furbearer species |
Special License Categories:
- Military (Active Duty): Resident rates if stationed in Maryland
- Purple Heart Recipients: 50% discount on all licenses
- 100% Disabled Veterans/POW: Complimentary lifetime licenses available
- Landowners: May hunt own property without license (stamp requirements still apply)
License Purchase Options:
- Online: MD Outdoors Portal
- In-person: Licensed sporting goods dealers statewide
- DNR Service Centers in Annapolis, Wye Mills, and Cumberland
❓ Maryland Hunting Quick FAQ
Q: Do I need hunter education to buy a Maryland license? A: Yes, all first-time hunters must complete a hunter safety course or show proof of previous licensing from before July 1, 1977. The exception is nonresidents purchasing the 3-day waterfowl license for waterfowl-only activities.
Q: Can I hunt on Sundays in Maryland? A: Yes, but with restrictions. Sunday opportunities vary by county, species, and land type. Private land generally offers more Sunday options than public areas. Check the official Sunday chart for specific details in your area.
Q: What’s the difference between Region A and Region B? A: Region A covers western Maryland (Allegany, Garrett, and western Washington County) with more restrictive deer bag limits. Region B includes the rest of the state with higher bag limits, especially for antlerless deer.
Q: Are crossbows legal during archery season? A: Yes, crossbows are legal during all archery seasons in Maryland. No special permit is required, but you still need the archery stamp to hunt deer.
Q: Do I need steel shot for all game? A: Steel shot (or other approved non-toxic ammunition) is required only for waterfowl and coots. You may use lead shot for upland game birds and mammals, except in areas specifically designated as non-toxic zones.
Q: Can I use a rifle for deer throughout Maryland? A: No, rifle use for deer varies by county. Many central Maryland counties restrict hunters to shotguns and straight-walled cartridge rifles only. Check the firearms restrictions map before planning your hunt.
Q: How do I register my harvest? A: Maryland uses an electronic check-in system through the MD Outdoors portal or phone system. Deer and turkey must be checked within 24 hours of harvest. Bear require immediate check-in at designated stations.
🔗 Related Resources & Important Links
Stay connected with official sources and expand your knowledge with these valuable resources:
Official Maryland DNR Resources:
- Maryland Hunting & Trapping Guide
- MD Outdoors Licensing Portal
- Public Hunting Lands Directory
- Hunter Education Information
Federal Requirements:
Planning Your Adventures: Consider exploring opportunities in nearby states to extend your season. Virginia hunting seasons offer additional options just south of the border.
Weather & Conditions:
- National Weather Service Baltimore/Washington
- Maryland State Park Conditions
- Chesapeake Bay Water Levels
Conclusion
Maryland’s 2025-2026 game calendar offers something for every outdoor enthusiast, from the challenge of mountain grouse to the excitement of Chesapeake Bay waterfowl. The state’s diverse habitats and well-managed wildlife populations provide opportunities that span nearly eight months of the year.
Key takeaways for this season: Start preparing early for popular opportunities like bear permits and public land access. The new licensing system through MD Outdoors streamlines many processes, but don’t wait until the last minute for license purchases. Remember that regulations can change, so always verify current information before heading afield.
Whether you’re planning your first Maryland adventure or you’re a longtime resident exploring new opportunities, this season promises excellent potential. From the September bow opener through the late waterfowl periods, there’s never been a better time to experience what the Old Line State offers.
Make this the year you explore a new species, try a different method, or visit an unfamiliar Wildlife Management Area. Maryland’s wildlife resources are a treasure worth protecting and enjoying responsibly. Get your licenses early, practice your skills, and prepare for an outstanding year in the field!
Bookmark this guide and check back regularly – we’ll update information as regulations are finalized and season adjustments are announced.
