Maryland Black Bear Lottery Now Open

Hunting Expanded to Include Frederick and Washington Counties

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is now accepting applications for this year’s black bear hunting lottery. Successful applicants will receive a permit valid for the four-day hunting season, taking place Oct. 24-27 in Allegany, Frederick, Garrett and Washington counties. The department will issue 750 hunting permits (up from 500 permits in 2015) that can be used anywhere within the hunting zone.

New this year, the bear hunt has been expanded to include all of Allegany, Frederick, Garrett and Washington counties. The annual bear hunt is an important management tool used to slow the growth of Maryland’s black bear population as it disperses eastward into more suburban communities and counties.

“This hunt remains well-regulated, scientifically sound and sustainable,” Wildlife and Heritage Service Director Paul Peditto said. “Expanding the area open to bear hunting will help us achieve our goal of limiting the increase in our bear population while guaranteeing a secure future for this species in Maryland.”

Hunters may apply in one of the following ways: online, by phone at 855-855-3906 (weekdays from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.), by visiting a service center, or at one of over 250 Sport License Agents across the state.

All entries must be completed by 11:59 p.m. on Aug. 31, and accompanied by a $15 nonrefundable application fee. Only one application per person will be accepted, with duplicates resulting in disqualification and forfeiture of all fees. (Please note: Your DNR ID number is your lottery number, which you will retain each year.)

The Black Bear Damage Reimbursement Fund is also open for voluntary contributions by hunters when they apply for their permits. Donated monies will be used to directly reimburse Maryland farmers who have suffered agricultural damage caused by black bears. Since the fund was started 20 years ago, it has paid out more than $125,000 in eligible claims to farmers.