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Firearm Deer-Hunting Season to Open in Maryland

Photo of large buck in a field of tall grass

Photo from FWS.gov

Two-Week Season Runs November 28 to December 12

The two-week firearm deer season opens Nov. 28 and runs through Dec. 12. Hunters who possess a valid Maryland hunting license or are exempt from license requirements may use firearms to harvest sika and white-tailed deer during this season.

“The two-week firearm season is our most popular deer hunting opportunity,” Department of Natural Resources Director of Wildlife and Heritage Paul Peditto said. “Not only is the deer harvest over this period a critical part of the department’s deer management program, it also allows hunters to spend time outdoors and provide food for their families.”

deermanagementzonesThe bag limits for the season are:

  • Statewide: one antlered white-tailed deer. Three sika deer, no more than one antlered.
  • In Region A: On private land, one antlerless deer on Dec. 11 or 12. On public land, one antlerless deer on Dec. 12. Hunters may only take two antlerless deer total for the license year.
  • In Region B: Ten antlerless white-tailed deer. One bonus antlered white-tailed may be taken per year during a weapon season of the hunter’s choice (archery, muzzleloader or firearm). A hunter must first take two antlerless white-tailed deer and purchase a Bonus Antlered Deer Stamp before taking a second antlered deer.

Hunters in Frederick County should be aware of new changes to the Shotgun Deer Hunting Zone.

The Department of Natural Resources advises hunters to wear a full-body safety harness while climbing in or out and while in the tree stand. It strongly recommends using a sliding knot, commonly known as a prussic knot, attached to a line that is secured above the tree stand. For more information on tree-stand safety, click here.

Season dates, bag limits, hunting regulations and procedures are located in the 2015-2016 Maryland Guide to Hunting & Trapping. Additional information may be found on the Hunting in Maryland webpage.

Successful deer hunters are encouraged to donate any extra deer they may harvest to the Farmers and Hunters Feeding the Hungry program. The deer are processed at participating butchers without charge to the hunter and the venison is given to local food banks.

Citizens with questions may contact the Wildlife & Heritage Service at 410-260-8540.

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