Maryland Two-Week Firearms Deer Hunting Season Opens Nov. 30 What You Need to Know
deer hunting season louisiana – The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is gearing up for the state’s popular two-week firearms hunting season for sika and white-tailed deer, which opens on Saturday, Nov. 30, and runs through Saturday, Dec. 14. With the inclusion of Sunday hunting in all but three counties, hunters will have extended opportunities to pursue deer and contribute to the management of Maryland’s abundant deer population.
The two-week firearms season remains one of Maryland’s most popular hunts,” said Karina Stonesifer, Director of DNR’s Wildlife and Heritage Service. This season offers the chance for hunters to enjoy time outdoors with family and friends in cooler temperatures, while providing high-protein meals for thousands of Marylanders. It’s also vital for managing the state’s deer population.”
Key Dates and Regulations
The firearms season for deer hunting is a staple of Maryland’s outdoor traditions, with hunters encouraged to take part in managing the deer population. The season’s bag limits and antlerless season dates, as well as additional deer hunting regulations, are outlined in the 2024-2025 Maryland Guide to Hunting and Trapping, which is available online.
For those hunting sika deer, a special sika hunting stamp is required. These stamps can be purchased through DNR’s online licensing website, at licensing agents, or by calling DNR Licensing and Registration Services at 866-344-8889.
Antler-Point Restrictions and Chronic Wasting Disease Management
A key regulation for this year’s firearms hunting season includes the antler-point restriction. Hunters are allowed to harvest one antlered white-tailed deer per year that does not meet the minimum requirement of at least three points on one antler. Any additional antlered deer must meet this point restriction. However, junior hunters and apprentice license holders, 16 years or younger, are exempt from this restriction.
Hunters are also reminded of the expanded Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) Management Area. This area now includes all of Allegany, Baltimore, Carroll, Frederick, Montgomery, and Washington counties. Hunters in these counties must follow specific guidelines regarding the transportation of whole deer carcasses or certain parts outside the management area unless exceptions apply. Though CWD does not naturally transmit to humans, the DNR recommends hunters avoid consuming the meat of sick animals or parts like the brain, lymph nodes, and spinal column, which are typically removed during processing.
Safety Guidelines and Gear Requirements
Safety is paramount during the firearms season. All hunters and their companions are required to wear daylight fluorescent orange or pink clothing in the field. This includes a cap, vest, or jacket with specific amounts of visible fluorescent color. Camouflage options are also acceptable as long as they contain at least 50% fluorescent daylight orange or pink.
Hunters are urged to ensure their tree stands are in good condition and to always wear a full-body safety harness when climbing in and out of stands. For added safety, hunters should use a prusik knot or a similar system to tether themselves to the tree as soon as they leave the ground.
Helping Others Through Donations
Maryland hunters are also encouraged to consider donating any deer they harvest. The DNR offers a state tax credit as an incentive for donated deer, and many local and state programs are available to facilitate deer donation. Hunters can check with their local deer processors to learn about the available donation opportunities.
The two-week firearms hunting season provides an essential opportunity for Marylanders to participate in wildlife management, enjoy time outdoors, and contribute to local communities through deer donations. With the necessary safety precautions and regulations in place, hunters can help maintain a healthy deer population while continuing to enjoy one of Maryland’s most cherished outdoor traditions.
