If you’re an outdoor enthusiast considering an East Coast adventure, Maine’s diverse hunting seasons might just be the perfect destination for you. The state boasts a rich offering of deer, moose, bear, and small game seasons, providing ample opportunities for hunters throughout the fall and spring.
Table of Contents
Both state residents and nonresidents can obtain hunting licenses, available for purchase online with the added convenience of instant printing. While certain game hunts, like deer and moose, necessitate permits, many operate on lottery systems. Online submissions for permit lotteries are accepted annually.
Maine’s Outdoor Partners program facilitates access to privately owned farms, forests, and lands for hunters. Although much of the land is open to the public, seasonal hunting may require permits or permission from landowners. The state also runs the “Hunters for the Hungry” initiative, allowing hunters to contribute portions or the entirety of their game harvest to regional families in need.
Maine Deer Seasons
Embark on a thrilling adventure in the woods of Maine during the Deer Seasons, where the crisp autumn air sets the stage for an unforgettable hunting experience. From the exclusive Resident Only Day to the heart-pounding Firearms Season, these dates mark a seasonal symphony of tradition and skill. Join fellow hunters in pursuing the majestic white-tailed deer amidst the picturesque landscapes of Maine, creating lasting memories in the heart of East Coast wilderness.
Resident Only Day: Oct. 28
Youth Day: Oct. 20
Firearms: Oct. 30-Nov. 25
Expanded Archery: Sept. 9-Dec. 9 (designated areas only)
Archery and Crossbow: Sept. 30-Oct. 27
Youth Deer Hunt: Oct. 20-21
Muzzleloader: Statewide: Nov. 27-Dec. 2; Selected Regions: Dec. 4-9
Note: Season dates vary by zone/Wildlife Management District (WMDs). Deer season hunting requires deer permits. For more information about legal hunting in specific areas of Maine, visit the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife website.
Maine Bear Seasons
Experience the adrenaline of Maine’s Bear Seasons, running from August 28 to November 25. Choose your preferred approach—tracking with dogs, hunting with bait (Aug. 28-Sept. 23), or embrace the excitement of Youth Day on August 26—for a short but unforgettable foray into the Maine wilderness.
General Season: Aug. 28-Nov. 25
Hunting With Dogs: Sept. 11-Oct. 27
Hunting With Bait: Aug. 28-Sept. 23
Youth Day: Aug. 26
Maine Moose Seasons
Explore Maine’s Moose Seasons (Oct. 16-Nov. 11), offering rare encounters in unique zones. Embrace the challenge, savor the moment, and relish each moose hunt as a once-in-a-lifetime wilderness adventure.
Antlerless Only: Oct. 16-21, Oct. 23-28, Oct. 30-Nov. 4, Nov. 6-11
Bull Only: Sept. 25-30, Oct. 9-14
Note: Season dates vary by zone, and by antlered or antlerless animals. Moose hunting is restricted to permit holders, and only one moose may be taken per year. Moose hunt seasons vary by location.
Maine Wild Turkey Seasons
Delight in the captivating rhythms of Maine’s Wild Turkey Seasons, unfolding from September 17 to November 7 for the Fall General Season. Join the jubilation of Fall Youth Day on September 16 or savor the timeless traditions of the Spring General Season, spanning from April 29 to June 1.
Fall General Season: Sept. 17-Nov. 7
Fall Youth Day: Sept. 16
Spring General Season: Apr. 29-June 1
Spring Youth Day: April 27
Hunting dates may vary depending on the region, and some areas may be closed to hunting. For more information, visit the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife website.
Maine Small Game Seasons
Dive into the diverse tapestry of Maine’s Small Game Seasons, where from chasing Gray Squirrels (Sept. 30-Dec. 30) to tracking elusive Snowshoe Hares (Sept. 30-March 30), the thrill of the hunt knows no bounds. Explore the unique challenges of pursuing Bobcats (Dec. 1-Feb. 21) or take part in the open season for Woodchucks, Coyotes, Porcupines, and Red Squirrels.
Gray Squirrel: Sept. 30-Dec. 30
Snowshoe Hare: Sept. 30-March 30; Vinalhaven Island: Sept. 30-Feb. 28
Bobcat: Dec. 1-Feb. 21
Woodchuck, Coyote, Porcupine, Red Squirrel: Open Season
Coyote (Night Hunting Only): Dec. 16-Aug. 31
Ruffed Grouse & Bobwhite Quail: Sept. 30-Dec. 30
Note: Season dates vary by zone.
Bag limits, special seasons, and hunting regulations for Maine hunting seasons vary based on the animal and season. Maine is divided into wildlife management districts (WMD), determining regional season start and end dates. For more information on obtaining licenses, permits, and regulations, visit the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife website.