Muskrat Trapping Season Extended

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources has added a one week extension to the muskrat trapping season in all counties except Allegany, Carroll, Frederick, Garrett, Howard and Washington. The season will now close on March 21, 2015 to make up for unfavorable weather-related trapping conditions.

Recent cold weather and ice cover have limited trapper access to many wetlands and waterways, and their ability to harvest this valuable furbearer. State law grants DNR the authority to extend the muskrat trapping season for up to seven days in the event weather has severely impacted trapping opportunity.

DNR did not extend the muskrat trapping season in the aforementioned counties since their seasons start earlier, which allowed for ample trapping opportunity prior to the waterways freezing over.  No other hunting or trapping seasons have been extended.

Additional information about hunting and trapping can be found in the Maryland Guide to Hunting and Trapping online.

Trappers and hunters are reminded that a Furbearer Permit is required for individuals that hunt, chase, trap or otherwise pursue furbearers. Those that wish to trap furbearers and did not possess a Furbearer Permit or certificate of trapper education prior to August 1, 2007 must also complete mandatory trapper education requirements. To learn more, visit click here.

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