We’ve organized the essential information you need in this comprehensive Maine hunting guide:
- License costs and permit requirements (the non-resident prices might surprise you)
- Season dates and bag limits for every huntable species
- Where to actually hunt—public lands, guided options, and private access
Let’s jump into the reference tables first, then break down each species and hunting location.
Quick Overview: Season Dates, Maine Hunting Licenses, and Regulations
Maine divides into numbered Wildlife Management Districts (WMDs) with different rules for each area. Know your target WMD before you hunt—season dates, bag limits, and legal methods can change dramatically between districts.
⚠️ CRITICAL: Sunday Hunting Prohibition No hunting on Sundays. Period. This applies to every species, every season, residents and non-residents alike.
Maine Hunting License Costs
These prices reflect the 2026 rates after the December 2025 adjustment. Non-residents pay nearly five times what residents do for basic hunting privileges.
| License Type | Resident | Non-Resident | Includes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Big Game (16+) | $26.00 | $115.00 | Deer, Bear, Moose, Small Game |
| Combo (Hunt/Fish) | $48.00 | $169.00 | Best value for multi-sport hunters |
| Junior (10-15) | $8.00 | $35.00 | Resident junior includes all permits |
| Super Pack | $212.00 | N/A | All-inclusive resident package |
| Muzzleloader Permit | $13.00 | $69.00 | Add-on permit for deer |
| Turkey Permit | $20.00 | $20.00 | Covers both Spring and Fall |
| Bear Permit | $12.00 | $75.00 | NR permit often bundled with license |
Maine Hunting Season Dates and Bag Limits
All dates exclude Sundays when hunting is prohibited statewide. Season dates can vary by WMD, so double-check your specific hunting area.
| Species | Season Type | Dates | Bag Limit/Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deer | Archery (Regular) | Oct 3 – Oct 30 | Statewide; 1 antlered buck per year |
| Deer | Youth Day | Oct 23 – Oct 24 | Oct 24 is primary day |
| Deer | Resident Only Day | Oct 31 | Resident firearm hunters only |
| Deer | Firearms | Nov 2 – Nov 28 | All WMDs |
| Deer | Muzzleloader | Nov 30 – Dec 12 | Dec 7-12 limited to specific WMDs |
| Deer | Expanded Archery | Sept 12 – Dec 12 | Designated areas only |
| Bear | General Season | Aug 31 – Nov 28 | Limit: 2 per year (1 hunt, 1 trap) |
| Bear | Bait Hunting | Aug 31 – Sept 26 | Special method period |
| Bear | Dog Hunting | Sept 14 – Oct 30 | Special method period |
| Moose | Lottery Only | Sept 28 – Oct 31 | Split by Bull/Antlerless and WMD |
| Wild Turkey | Fall | Sept 14 – Nov 7 | 1-5 birds depending on WMD |
| Wild Turkey | Spring | May 3 – June 5, 2027 | 1-2 bearded birds depending on WMD |
| Upland Birds | Grouse/Quail/Pheasant | Sept 26 – Dec 31 | Check specific species limits |
| Coyote | Daylight Hunting | No closed season | No limit |
| Coyote | Night Hunting | Dec 16 – Aug 31 | No limit |
| Bobcat | General Season | Dec 1 – Feb 20 | Check current limits |
🦌 Deer Limit Reminder One antlered buck per year, statewide. Extra antlerless deer need WMD-specific permits.
Maine Deer Hunting
Deer hunting draws more hunters to Maine than any other big game species. The multi-season structure gives you options from early October through mid-December, with archery, firearms, and muzzleloader seasons each offering different experiences and hunting conditions.
For complete deer hunting strategies, WMD recommendations, and detailed regulations, check out our comprehensive Maine deer hunting guide.
Maine Deer Hunting Seasons
Regular archery season (Oct 3-30) runs statewide with way less hunting pressure than firearms season. You’ll deal with cooler temps and deer that haven’t been spooked by gun hunters yet. Expanded archery season (Sept 12 – Dec 12) only works in designated areas—verify your target spot qualifies before making plans.
Youth deer hunt (Oct 23-24) gives young hunters their own dedicated opportunity, with October 24 as the main day. The resident-only day (Oct 31) is a nice perk for Maine residents—exclusive access before the general firearms season opens to everyone.
Main firearms season (Nov 2-28) brings the biggest crowds but also coincides with peak rut activity. This is when most hunters hit the woods, and for good reason—deer movement peaks right when weather conditions are still manageable.
Muzzleloader season (Nov 30 – Dec 12) requires an extra permit: $13 for residents, $69 for non-residents. Pay attention here—December 7-12 is limited to specific WMDs only. Check that your target district allows muzzleloader hunting during the extended period.
Maine Deer Hunting Regulations
Know these rules or risk serious penalties:
- One antlered buck limit: Annual statewide limit; additional antlerless deer need WMD-specific permits
- Sunday prohibition: Zero hunting on Sundays during any deer season
- Blaze orange requirement: Firearms season requires two articles of solid blaze orange visible from all sides—hat AND jacket, vest, coat, or poncho
- Legal hunting hours: Half hour before sunrise to half hour after sunset
- Tagging requirement: Tag harvested deer immediately and register at a check station
Maine Bear Hunting
Maine ranks among the top black bear hunting destinations in the Northeast. The state’s two-bear annual limit (one by hunting, one by trapping) and multiple legal hunting methods including bait and dogs make it unique compared to most other states.
Our complete Maine black bear hunting guide covers method-specific strategies, success rates, and WMD recommendations.
Maine Bear Hunting Seasons
General bear season runs Aug 31 – Nov 28—one of the longest bear seasons in the Northeast. You can still-hunt or stalk bears throughout this entire 16-week period, giving you maximum flexibility for timing and approach.
Bait hunting happens Aug 31 – Sept 26 and represents the most popular and statistically effective method for harvesting Maine bears. Hunters set up bait sites before the season following specific regulations about bait types, site management, and distances from roads and trails.
Dog hunting season runs Sept 14 – Oct 30, overlapping with bait season so you can switch methods during peak bear activity. This traditional method needs trained hounds and usually works best with experienced guides who maintain bear dog packs.
Maine Bear Hunting Regulations
Bear hunting has method-specific rules you must follow:
- Two-bear annual limit: Maximum 2 bears per year—1 by hunting methods, 1 by trapping
- Permit required: Bear permit costs $12 (resident) or $75 (non-resident), often bundled with non-resident licenses
- Bait site regulations: Bait hunting ends September 26; specific rules govern bait types and distances from roads/trails
- Dog hunting window: Hunting with dogs only permitted September 14 – October 30
- Sunday prohibition: No bear hunting on Sundays regardless of method
Maine Moose Hunting
Moose hunting is Maine’s most coveted hunting opportunity, drawing hunters from across the country who dream of harvesting North America’s largest game animal. Every single moose hunt in Maine requires winning a lottery permit—no over-the-counter options exist.
🎯 MOOSE LOTTERY DEADLINE Applications due: March 1 – May 15 Lottery drawing: June Start planning at least one year ahead for moose hunting.
For lottery strategies, permit odds by WMD, and hunt planning details, see our Maine moose hunting season guide.
Maine Moose Hunting Seasons
Moose season runs Sept 28 – Oct 31 but gets split by permit type (bull vs. antlerless) and WMD. Your permit specifies exact hunt dates and zones, spreading hunting pressure across different areas and time periods for proper harvest management.
Lottery applications open March 1 through May 15, with the drawing in June. Permits get allocated by WMD, and some districts offer way better odds than others. If you don’t win, you accumulate preference points that improve your chances next year.
Many successful lottery winners, especially non-residents, hire registered Maine guides. A 6-day guided moose hunt typically costs around $3,500, including meals and sub-permittee coverage—a significant investment that reflects how rare and valuable these permits are.
Maine Moose Hunting Regulations
Moose regulations get strictly enforced with severe penalties for violations:
- Lottery permit mandatory: No moose hunting without winning the annual lottery—zero exceptions
- WMD-specific permits: Your permit specifies which Wildlife Management District(s) you can hunt
- Blaze orange required: Moose hunters must wear at least one piece of solid blaze orange clothing
- Sub-permittee allowed: Permit holders can designate one sub-permittee to help with the hunt
- Registration required: All harvested moose must be registered and inspected at designated stations
Maine Turkey Hunting
Wild turkey hunting in Maine offers excellent opportunities for both beginners and experienced hunters. The state’s turkey population is thriving throughout most of its range. Wild turkey is the perfect hunt for beginners, with mild late-summer/early-fall temperatures, the excitement of calling-in a long-bearded Tom, and abundant turkey population throughout much of the state.
Our Maine turkey hunting season guide covers calling strategies, setup techniques, and WMD-specific success tips.
Maine Turkey Hunting Seasons
Fall turkey season runs Sept 14 – Nov 7 during cooler weather when family groups break up for winter. This season lets you hunt both gobblers and hens, with bag limits ranging from 1 to 5 birds depending on your WMD’s local population density.
Spring turkey season happens May 3 – June 5, 2027 during peak breeding when gobblers are most vocal and responsive to calling. WMDs 7 and 9-29 allow harvest of 2 bearded birds, while WMDs 1-6 and 8 permit only 1 bearded bird, reflecting different population management goals.
Legal hunting methods include shotgun, bow and arrow, or crossbow. Shotgun gauges 10 through 20 are legal, with ammunition containing sizes 4, 5, 6, or mixed loads sized 4 through 7.
Maine Turkey Hunting Regulations
Turkey hunting has specific rules that differ from other game species:
- WMD bag limits: Fall season allows up to 5 turkeys per season, but you can’t exceed individual WMD limits
- Spring season restrictions: Only bearded birds can be harvested during spring season
- Roosting prohibition: Hunters cannot shoot a turkey while it’s in a tree (roosted), and use of bait is prohibited
- Registration requirements: Harvested spring turkeys must be transport tagged and registered for $2 at the nearest tagging station, but fall season turkeys don’t need registration
- Legal hunting hours: Half hour before sunrise to half hour after sunset
Maine Minor Game Species Hunting
Maine’s diverse ecosystems support numerous small game and furbearer species that provide excellent hunting opportunities throughout extended seasons. These species offer great entry points for new hunters while giving seasoned hunters additional chances to extend their time afield.
Maine Upland Bird Hunting Information
Maine’s upland bird hunting focuses on ruffed grouse, with additional opportunities for ring-necked pheasant and bobwhite quail in suitable habitat. The season runs Sept 26 – Dec 31, giving you over three months of hunting through fall foliage and into early winter. Maine’s snowshoe hares are a great choice for small game hunts, which can be still-hunted or hunted with a guide’s trained beagles, and it’s a great hunting opportunity for all ages.
Our Maine upland bird hunting guide covers habitat identification, hunting techniques, and the best public lands for upland birds.
Maine Coyote Hunting Information
Coyote hunting in Maine offers unique opportunities with liberal seasons and no bag limits. Coyote hunting has no closed season for hunting with no limit during daylight hunting hours, and night hunting is permitted December 16, 2026 – August 31, 2027. This extensive season structure reflects the state’s management goals for this adaptable predator.
Night hunting for coyotes provides a specialized hunting experience available for over eight months. Hunters pursuing coyotes at night must follow specific equipment and safety regulations while taking advantage of this extended opportunity.
Maine Bobcat Hunting Information
Bobcat hunting represents one of Maine’s premier furbearer opportunities, with the season running Dec 1 – Feb 20 during prime winter fur conditions. This timing coincides with peak fur quality and increased bobcat activity during breeding season, though success requires understanding bobcat behavior and habitat preferences.
Bobcat hunting typically involves tracking in snow conditions, making it a challenging pursuit that rewards skilled woodsmen. The limited season timing and specialized techniques make this a pursuit for dedicated hunters willing to invest time learning bobcat patterns and behavior.
Where to Hunt in Maine
Maine’s vast landscape offers diverse hunting opportunities across both public and private lands. You have two options for hunting: private land or public land, with roughly 94% of Maine’s forest land being privately owned, and more than half of that land area open to the public. Understanding your access options is crucial for planning successful hunts.
Best Public Lands
Maine provides excellent public hunting access through different state and federal properties:
- Wildlife Management Areas: Maine manages over 120,000 acres of land through Wildlife Management Units (WMAs) specifically managed for wildlife habitat and hunting access
- State Parks and Forests: Many state-owned properties allow hunting during designated seasons with proper licensing
- Federal Lands: Acadia National Park areas and other federal holdings provide additional public hunting opportunities
- Paper Company Lands: Large timber companies traditionally allow public hunting access, though policies vary by company and location
Guided Hunts
Maine’s registered guide system represents the gold standard for professional hunting services. Maine has hundreds of Registered Maine Guides, and they are considered the gold standard in outdoor skills and knowledge. Plan your visit to Maine with a licensed guide to help create an unforgettable trip.
Guided services range from day hunts for specific species to comprehensive multi-day packages including lodging, meals, and transportation. For specialized hunts like moose or bear hunting with dogs, guides provide essential expertise and equipment that significantly improve success rates.
For the right gear to maximize your guided hunt success, check out the Hunting Locator store for equipment recommendations from experienced hunters.
Private Land Hunting
Private land hunting often provides the best opportunities for consistent success and trophy animals. Leasing private land for hunting has become increasingly popular as hunters seek exclusive access and reduced competition. Property owners benefit from additional income while hunters gain access to prime habitat that may receive minimal hunting pressure.
Purchasing private land represents the ultimate hunting investment, providing permanent access and the ability to manage habitat specifically for target species. Many hunters form partnerships or hunting clubs to make land purchases more affordable while sharing management responsibilities and costs.
Hunting Locator serves as the nation’s most reputable platform connecting hunters with quality private land opportunities. Whether you’re seeking a short-term lease for this season or looking to purchase your own hunting property, our comprehensive database includes vetted listings throughout Maine. Browse Maine hunting leases to find your perfect hunting spot, with direct landowner contact and detailed property information that saves you time and ensures quality opportunities.
FAQ
What licenses do I need to hunt deer in Maine as a non-resident?
Non-residents need a Big Game License ($115) which covers deer, bear, moose, and small game. If you plan to hunt during muzzleloader season, you’ll also need a Muzzleloader Permit ($69). Total cost for non-resident deer hunting with all methods would be $184, compared to just $39 for Maine residents.
When is the Maine moose lottery application deadline?
Applications for fall hunting are due March 1 – May 15, with the lottery drawing happening in June. You must apply well in advance of the hunting season, as all moose hunting in Maine requires winning the lottery—there are no over-the-counter moose permits available.
Can I hunt on Sundays in Maine?
No, hunting is prohibited on Sundays for ALL species throughout Maine. This applies to residents and non-residents alike, so plan your hunting trips accordingly and avoid scheduling hunts on Sundays regardless of the species or season.
What’s the bag limit for deer in Maine?
The statewide limit is 1 antlered buck per year. Additional antlerless deer require specific permits that vary by Wildlife Management District (WMD). Some WMDs offer antlerless permits while others don’t, so check your target hunting area’s specific regulations.
Do I need hunter education to hunt in Maine?
All hunters must pass a hunter education course — or show proof of having a valid license before — to purchase an adult hunting license. Maine offers apprentice hunting licenses that allow new hunters to hunt under the supervision of a licensed mentor without completing hunter education first.
What are the best hunting seasons for beginners in Maine?
Wild turkey is the perfect hunt for beginners, with mild late-summer/early-fall temperatures, the excitement of calling-in a long-bearded Tom, and abundant turkey population throughout much of the state. Small game hunting for species like snowshoe hares also provides excellent learning opportunities with extended seasons and liberal bag limits.
The Final Shot
Maine’s 2026-2027 hunting seasons offer incredible opportunities for both residents and visitors, from extended bear seasons starting in late August to spring turkey hunts extending into June 2027. Success in Maine hunting comes down to three key factors: understanding the regulations, securing proper licenses and permits well in advance, and finding quality places to hunt.
While this guide provides the regulatory foundation you need, your hunting success ultimately depends on accessing productive hunting areas. Whether you’re planning your first Maine hunting adventure or you’re a seasoned hunter looking to expand your opportunities, Hunting Locator connects you with the private land access that can make the difference between a good hunt and an unforgettable one. Start planning your 2026-2027 Maine hunting seasons today—the best opportunities are secured by hunters who plan ahead.
