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State Guide

Maryland Hunting Guide

Complete Maryland hunting guide. Maryland hunting seasons, license costs, bag limits, and regulations for all major game species. Updated for the current season.

Wildlife Agency

Maryland Department of Natural Resources

Official Site

Hunter safety course required for first-time buyers

Maryland Hunting Seasons

Whitetail Deer

Res: $24.5 Non-res: $130
Season Type Opens Closes
Archery Sep 8 Jan 31
Shotgun Nov 25 Dec 9
Muzzleloader Oct 21 Oct 28

Bag limits: daily: 2, season: Liberal — varies by region up to 10+

No centerfire rifles except on the Eastern Shore. Very liberal antlerless harvest encouraged. Bonus antlerless stamps available.

Turkey

Res: $24.5 Non-res: $130
Season Type Opens Closes
Shotgun Apr 17 May 23
Archery Apr 10 Apr 16

Bag limits: daily: 1, season: 2 (spring)

Spring bearded turkey season. Archery-only opener prior to general season. Good populations in western Maryland. Turkey stamp required.

Duck/Waterfowl

Res: $24.5 Non-res: $130
Season Type Opens Closes
Shotgun Oct 14 Jan 27

Bag limits: daily: 6, season: No season limit

Chesapeake Bay is legendary waterfowl habitat. Federal duck stamp and Maryland waterfowl stamp required. Atlantic Flyway.

Planning Tools

Maryland Hunting Guides

Whitetail deer in Maryland farm country and hardwood forest during the fall rut

destinations

Maryland Deer Hunting: Eastern Shore, Mountains, and Public Land

Maryland Hunting FAQ

Do I need a hunting license in Maryland?
Yes. All hunters in Maryland must hold a valid hunting license from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. Non-residents typically pay higher fees. A hunter safety course is required for first-time license buyers.
What is the hunting license cost in Maryland?
Maryland license costs vary by species. Whitetail Deer: resident $24.5, non-resident $130. Turkey: resident $24.5, non-resident $130.
When is deer season in Maryland?
Maryland deer seasons: Archery: Sep 8 - Jan 31, Shotgun: Nov 25 - Dec 9, Muzzleloader: Oct 21 - Oct 28.
Does Maryland require a hunter safety course?
Yes, Maryland requires hunter education certification for all first-time hunters. The course covers firearm safety, hunting laws, wildlife conservation, and ethical hunting practices.
Who manages hunting regulations in Maryland?
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources manages all hunting licenses, regulations, and wildlife management in Maryland. Their website (https://dnr.maryland.gov/wildlife) has current season dates, license purchasing, and regulation booklets.