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Everything You Need To Know About Hunting in Maryland: Complete Guide

12/2024
Dec 22, 2024
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Maryland offers rich hunting opportunities for both seasoned hunters and newcomers. Whether you’re hunting deer, waterfowl, or small game, the state’s diverse landscapes and wildlife management areas (WMAs) make it a premier destination. This blog will provide insights into hunting statistics, common calibers used during firearm season, and other key details you need to know to make the most of your hunting experience in Maryland.

Hunting in Maryland: Facts and Figures

As of 2021, Maryland had 116,422 paid hunting license holders, which is roughly 1.9% of the state’s population—the ninth lowest percentage nationally. Despite this relatively low participation rate, hunting plays an important role in the state’s wildlife management and conservation efforts. During the 2023-2024 season, hunters in Maryland harvested an impressive 72,642 deer, including 30,025 antlered and 38,511 antlerless white-tailed deer. This shows a continued commitment to maintaining healthy wildlife populations and promoting sustainable hunting practices.

Additionally, during the 2022-2023 period, hunters purchased 321,279 licenses, tags, permits, and stamps, generating significant revenue of $6,781,632. This financial contribution helps support conservation efforts and ensures the continuation of hunting programs across the state.

Common Calibers Used During Firearm Season in Maryland

Firearm season for deer hunting in Maryland typically involves shotguns, muzzleloaders, and sometimes rifles, depending on the region. Here’s a breakdown of the most commonly used calibers for each:

  1. Shotguns:
    • Common Calibers: 12-gauge, 16-gauge, and 20-gauge shotguns, firing slugs (solid projectiles) instead of pellets.
    • Regulations: Shotguns are the primary weapon of choice during firearm season in regions where rifles are prohibited. These guns provide effective range for hunting deer in the dense woods and forested areas of Maryland.
  2. Muzzleloaders:
    • Common Calibers: .50 caliber and .45 caliber muzzleloaders are among the most commonly used during Maryland’s muzzleloader season.
    • Regulations: Muzzleloaders must be at least .40 caliber, and these firearms offer hunters a historical and challenging hunting experience during the early and late seasons.
  3. Rifles:
    • Common Calibers: While rifles are legal only in Western Maryland (Region A), popular calibers for hunting deer include the .30-06 Springfield, .308 Winchester, and 7mm Rem mag.
    • Regulations: Rifles are prohibited in most of the state, particularly in densely populated areas, to ensure safety.
  4. Shotgun Slugs:
    • Common Slug Loads: For hunters using shotguns, slugs typically range from 1 oz to 1.25 oz loads in 12-gauge and 20-gauge shotguns. These slugs are designed for greater accuracy and effectiveness at longer ranges compared to traditional shotgun pellets.

Maryland’s Hunting Regions and Firearm Season Rules

In Maryland, hunting regulations vary based on the region. There are two primary regions for firearm hunting: Region A (Western Maryland) and Region B (Central, Eastern Shore, and Southern Maryland). Here’s an overview:

  • Region A (Western Maryland):
    • Shotguns, muzzleloaders, and rifles are all legal. Rifles are most commonly used here due to the terrain and open spaces.
    • Popular firearm choices include the .30-06, .308, and 7mm rem-mag for rifles.
  • Region B (Central and Eastern Shore):
    • Shotguns are the primary firearm used for deer hunting, as rifles are restricted in many counties. However, a recent regulation change allows the use of straight-wall cartridges in certain calibers, broadening hunters’ options. Muzzleloaders and shotguns (20-gauge or larger) are common choices for hunters, but now straight-wall cartridges such as .45-70 Government, .350 Legend, and .450 Bushmaster are also legal for deer hunting. These cartridges provide improved accuracy and range over traditional shotguns, giving hunters more flexibility in their firearm choices during the firearm season.
    • Muzzleloaders and shotguns (20-gauge or larger) are common choices for hunters.

For firearm season, hunting on Maryland’s public land and wildlife management areas (WMAs) often requires compliance with specific local regulations. This includes respecting firearm types, ammunition restrictions, and safety zones.

Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) in Maryland

Maryland is home to over 60 Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs), offering ample opportunities for hunting. These areas are managed to protect wildlife habitats and provide access for hunters. Here’s a list of notable WMAs in different regions:

  • Western Maryland: Belle Grove WMA, Billmeyer WMA, Dan’s Mountain WMA
  • Central Maryland: Avondale WMA, Dierssen WMA, Gwynnbrook WMA
  • Southern Maryland: Bowen WMA, Cedar Point WMA, Cheltenham WMA
  • Eastern Maryland: Bodkin Island WMA, Cedar Island WMA, Chicone Creek WMA

These areas are perfect for hunters looking for public land with diverse landscapes. Whether you’re pursuing whitetail deer, wild turkeys, or small game, these WMAs offer great access for hunters. Visit Maryland DNR website for a full list of WMAs and regulations.

Popular Game in Maryland: Regional Breakdown

Maryland’s diverse ecosystems support a wide variety of game animals, and hunting varies across regions:

  • Eastern Shore: Known for waterfowl hunting, the Eastern Shore offers prime conditions for ducks and geese due to the Chesapeake Bay’s wetlands. White-tailed deer are also abundant, though outbreaks like EHD can impact the harvest.
  • Central Region: White-tailed deer are commonly hunted, and wild turkeys are sought after, especially during the spring season. The Central Region has experienced a steady increase in deer harvests, with hunters often taking advantage of the area’s variety of habitats.
  • Western Maryland: This region is prime for white-tailed deer, black bear hunting, and wild turkeys. Hunters enjoy these mountains’ challenges and the distinct opportunity to hunt black bears, which are regulated by specific seasons.

Varmint hunting in Maryland is popular for controlling populations of certain species like foxes, raccoons, groundhogs, and coyotes, as well as protecting crops and livestock. Maryland has specific rules and regulations for varmint hunting to ensure ethical practices and conservation. Here’s an overview of the key rules and regulations:

General Rules for Varmint Hunting in Maryland

  • Hunting Hours:
    • Varmint hunting is typically allowed during daylight hours, but some species like coyotes can also be hunted at night in certain areas.
  • No Closed Season:
    • Many varmints, such as coyotes and raccoons, have no closed season, meaning they can be hunted year-round. However, specific regulations and hunting methods can vary by region.
  • License Requirements:
    • A valid Maryland hunting license is required to hunt varmints. Depending on the type of varmint being hunted, additional permits or stamps may be required (for example, a trapping license for certain species).
  • Firearm Regulations:
    • The use of rifles and shotguns is generally allowed for varmint hunting, but hunters must comply with regional and county-specific regulations, especially regarding caliber and projectile types (e.g., using non-toxic shot or avoiding full-metal-jacketed bullets).

Common Varmints and Specific Rules

  1. Coyotes:
    • Season: No closed season; coyotes can be hunted year-round.
    • Methods: Hunters can use firearms, archery, and calls to attract coyotes. Night hunting for coyotes is allowed in some counties with special permits.
    • Bag Limits: No bag limit for coyotes, but hunters must adhere to safety regulations and ensure they are hunting in appropriate areas.
  2. Foxes:
    • Season: Fox hunting is allowed year-round, but there are some restrictions during specific times to protect furbearer populations.
    • Methods: Foxes can be hunted with rifles, shotguns, and muzzleloaders. Hunters must use legal ammunition and observe any local safety zones.
    • Bag Limits: Some counties may impose a bag limit or restrict hunting during the breeding season, so it’s important to check local regulations.
  3. Raccoons:
    • Season: Raccoon hunting is allowed year-round, with no closed season.
    • Methods: Raccoons can be hunted using firearms, traps, and calls. Hunters often use hounds to track and tree raccoons.
    • Bag Limits: Raccoons generally do not have a bag limit, but hunters must follow safety guidelines, particularly when using dogs.
  4. Groundhogs (Woodchucks):
    • Season: Groundhog hunting is allowed during the spring and summer months when they are active.
    • Methods: Typically hunted with rifles and shotguns, as they are often found in open fields.
    • Bag Limits: No specific bag limit for groundhogs, but hunters should follow regulations related to landowner permission and firearm use.
  5. Other Small Game (e.g., Opossums, Skunks):
    • Season: These species may have specific seasons based on their population and breeding cycles. Opossums and skunks generally have no closed season.
    • Methods: Firearms and traps are commonly used to hunt these animals.
    • Bag Limits: Local regulations may impose bag limits on certain species, so it is important to consult the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) for specific guidelines.

Trapping Varmints

Trapping is an important method for managing varmint populations, especially for species like raccoons, foxes, and coyotes. A trapping license is required for anyone looking to trap animals in Maryland, and trappers must adhere to the following rules:

  • Legal Traps: Only certain types of traps are allowed (e.g., live traps and certain kill traps). It is illegal to use poisons or traps that do not meet state specifications.
  • Setback Requirements: Traps must be set away from public roads and must meet certain distances from structures and residences to ensure safety.
  • Marking Traps: Traps must be clearly marked with the name and address of the trapper.

Regional Regulations

Specific counties or areas may have additional restrictions or allowances for varmint hunting, such as:

  • Night Hunting: Some counties allow night hunting for coyotes and other predators, especially on private land. Special permits may be required for night hunting.
  • Use of Dogs: In some regions, hunters are allowed to use dogs to hunt varmints like raccoons or foxes. These activities may require special permits.
  • Safety Zones: Safety zones around residential areas, schools, and businesses may restrict the use of firearms for varmint hunting. Hunters should be aware of these zones to ensure compliance.

Important Tips for Varmint Hunters

  • Check Local Regulations: Always verify the specific rules for the county or region where you plan to hunt.
  • Landowner Permission: Always obtain permission before hunting on private property.
  • Use Safe Practices: Follow firearm safety protocols and be mindful of other hunters, especially when hunting in areas with high human activity.
  • Report Harvests: Some species, like foxes or coyotes, may require hunters to report their harvest to the Maryland DNR for population monitoring purposes.

Conclusion: Why Hunt in Maryland?

Maryland provides an incredible hunting experience, combining rich wildlife populations with extensive public lands. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a newcomer, the state offers a variety of game species, diverse hunting grounds, and a range of calibers and firearms suited to the hunter’s needs. Plus, with hunting revenue contributing to conservation and wildlife management, your efforts help protect Maryland’s natural heritage for generations to come.

For hunters looking for new experiences, the 2023-2024 season offers many opportunities to engage with Maryland’s wildlife while adhering to its responsible and sustainable hunting practices.

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Johnnie Loveday

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