More "do-it-yourself" Stocked Pheasant Hunts in 2019 - eRegulations
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MARYLAND GUIDE TO
&
2019-2020
More “do-it-yourself”
Stocked Pheasant
Hunts in 2019
Page 5, 52
Page 12 Page 5 Pages 5, 30, 40
Safety Zones Additional Sunday Chronic Wasting Disease
for Archery Hunters Hunting Opportunities Management Area
reduced in Cecil and in Dorchester, Cecil, has been expanded
Washington counties St. Mary’s and Wicomico
counties
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dnr.maryland.gov
54 36
50 43
page 14 52 60
CONTENTS 38 59
Messages����������������������������������� 4 Wild Turkey Hunting������������������ 36
New Opportunities and Deer and Turkey
Regulations for 2019–2020��������� 5 Tagging and Checking�������� 38–42
Natural Resources Migratory Game
Police Offices����������������������������� 6 Bird Hunting����������������������� 43–49
Wildlife and Heritage Black Bear Hunting������������������� 50
Service Offices��������������������������� 6
Small Game Hunting����������������� 52
Licensing and Registration
Service Centers�������������������������� 6 Furbearer
Hunting and Trapping��������� 54–58
Hunting Licenses, Stamps and
Permits���������������������������������� 8–11 Falconry Hunting��������������������������� 58
Hunting Regulations and Junior Hunter
Requirements��������������������������� 12 Certificates������������������������������� 59
Hunting Safety Tips������������������ 13 Public Hunting
Lands��������������������������������� 60–63
Deer Hunting�����������������������14–35
Sunrise and Sunset Table��������� 65
The Guide to Hunting and Trapping in Mary-
land is a publication of the Department of
Natural Resources, Wildlife and Heritage
Service. Ads promoting political advocacy
or ads regarding alcohol, tobacco and/or ads
of a sexual nature will not be accepted. The
Maryland Department of Natural Resources,
Wildlife and Heritage Service is not respon-
Larry Hogan, Governor sible for any advertising claims contained Williamstown, MA | Birmingham, AL
Boyd K. Rutherford, Lieutenant Governor herein. The department disclaims any liability
regarding product pricing, claims, descrip-
Jeannie Haddaway-Riccio, Secretary tions, availability or condition. No warranty
is expressed or implied concerning product
Paul A. Peditto, Director of the
About This Guide
Wildlife and Heritage Service errors, omissions or misprints.
Maryland Wildlife Advisory Commission This publication is intended as a guide only.
The Wildlife Advisory For state laws and regulations, see the Natural
Commission was created by legislation to Resources Article of the Annotated Code of
advise the secretary of the Department of This high-quality guide is offered to you
Maryland and the Code of Maryland Regula-
Natural Resources on wildlife matters. by the Maryland Department of Natural
tions, Title 08 at the following web sites: Resources through its unique partnership
All members are appointed by the governor.
Contact the Wildlife Advisory Commission by • Laws: lawlib.state.md.us with J.F. Griffin Publishing, LLC.
writing to: • Regulations:
dsd.state.md.us/COMAR/ComarHome.html The revenue generated through ad sales
Maryland Wildlife Advisory Commission
significantly lowers production costs and
Maryland Department of Natural Resources
generates savings. These savings translate
Wildlife and Heritage Service The facilities of the Department of Natu- into additional funds for other important
Tawes State Office Building, E-1 ral Resources are available to all without agency programs.
580 Taylor Ave. Annapolis, MD 21401 regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual
or email wac.dnr@maryland.gov orientation, age, national origin or physical If you have any feedback or are inter-
ested in advertising, please contact us at
Commissioners or mental disability. Accommodations for
413.884.1001 or at www.JFGriffin.com
Luen N. Compton, Jr., Chairman individuals with disabilities will be provided
Tina R. Gregor, Vice-Chair upon request. Seven days advance notice is Graphic Design:
Stephanie L. Boyles Griffin requested. This document is available in Jon Gulley, Dane Fay, John Corey,
Erik T. Gulbrandsen alternative format upon request from a quali- Evelyn Haddad, Chris Sobolowski
Joe L. Schroyer fied individual with a disability.
Rand D. Weinberg
Steven W. Keithley This program receives federal assistance from
Maryland Department of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and thus
Natural Resources prohibits discrimination on the basis of race,
Wildlife and Heritage Service color, national origin, disability, age and sex
Tawes State Office Building, E-1 in educational programs, pursuant to Title
580 Taylor Avenue VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Section
Annapolis, MD 21401 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Title
410-260-8540, FAX 410-260-8596 II of the Americans with Disabilities Act of
Toll free in Maryland: 877-620-8367
1990, the Age Discrimination Act of 1975
TTY users call via the MD Relay
dnr.maryland.gov/wildlife and Title IX of the Educational Amendments
of 1972. If you believe that you have been
discriminated against in any program, activ-
ity, or service, please contact the Maryland
Department of Natural Resources- Office of
Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Fair Practices, Tawes State Office Building
D-4, 580 Taylor Ave., Annapolis, MD, 21401.
Publication # SNR 03-041619-143 The telephone number is 410-260-8058. You
may also write to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service, Division of Policy and Programs,
Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program, This guide is also
4401 N. Fairfax Drive, Mail Stop: WSFR-
4020, Arlington, Virginia 22203.
available online at
2 2019–20 Maryland Guide to Hunting & Trapping
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MESSAGES
Greetings Hunters and Trappers:
It is our pleasure to welcome you to another season of hunting and trapping in Maryland.
There are few places in North America where you can enjoy the remarkable array of opportunities offered in Maryland.
The Chesapeake Bay serves as the anchor between our sweeping scenic mountains in the west and the sandy shores
of our Atlantic coast. In Maryland we pride ourselves on balancing conservation with recreation; and each unique
natural community offers Marylanders and our nonresident guests some of the finest hunting in the region. Maryland
is recognized as home to the largest white-tailed buck ever taken on the East Coast, it is the only place on the continent
where you can hunt free-ranging sika deer, and it is the wintering grounds for wild waterfowl in the Atlantic flyway.
Our fields, forests, and wetlands offer some of the finest outdoor experiences in the region. Featuring more than
500,000 acres of public land, we provide opportunities for all outdoor enthusiasts across the state. We are also proud
Larry Hogan of the hard work by our dedicated team of public land managers, biologists, and scientists who are committed to
ensuring our public parks, forests, and wildlife management areas remain safe, accessible, and available to all who visit.
Finally, we offer our sincere thanks to you—the hunting and trapping community—for the critical role you play
in managing and conserving wildlife in Maryland. You are conservationists at heart and an important part of our
economy—we offer our sincere thanks for your continued support.
Please enjoy your time afield and remember to share your stories. Have a wonderful and safe hunting and trapping
season wherever your Maryland adventures take you!
Sincerely,
Jeannie Larry Hogan, Jeannie Haddaway-Riccio,
Haddaway-Riccio Governor of Maryland Secretary of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources
On behalf of your Wildlife and Heritage Service team, it is my pleasure to welcome you to another season of outdoor
opportunities in Maryland!
This past season we introduced our first-ever mentored hunter pheasant program. The pilot program was limited
to a few counties and public lands in western Maryland. The program exceeded our expectations and left many
first-time hunters with memories of a lifetime and the spark to continue hunting in the future. A small team of
enthusiastic staff, underwritten by the federal match to your license purchases, will expand the program to include
new areas in Maryland—with a goal of introducing new hunters, of any age, to the traditions and experiences that
anchor all of us to this great passion.
We were also pleased to support the proposed expansion of Sunday hunting opportunities in the recent legisla-
tive session. Beyond the clear benefits to reducing overabundant deer populations in key areas across Maryland,
Paul A. Peditto
the extended weekend affords many hunters a chance to get afield who might otherwise miss those opportunities.
We acknowledge that there are other outdoor enthusiasts who are concerned with the perceived conflicts of hunt-
ing on Sunday. Although we recognize there are dozens of states and provinces across North America that have enjoyed hunting on Sunday
for decades without issue, we acknowledge and respect the concern, and to that end have never opened a State Park to Sunday hunting in
Maryland. Thus preserving those open spaces for our non-hunting public land visitors.
Finally, a quick personal tale—this past season I finally took my first deer with traditional archery gear. It was an average size antlerless
white-tailed deer during a wicked cold January afternoon. It was also a wonderful experience that will be with me forever, and I suspect
with those who experienced my enthusiastic story-telling shortly thereafter.
More importantly, it was time that I spent solo in the woods without the constant clutter borne of our otherwise busy and connected lives.
I can still recall thinking aloud how blessed I was to be able to simply have the opportunity to be in that tree-stand and overwhelmed by
the chance to be successful at something that is a true throw back to those hunters who started this tradition for the rest of us. Taking that
animal was a remarkable experience and one that further fortified my enthusiasm as a passionate hunter. It also reminded me that Maryland
is a wonderful place to be outdoors and experience our public lands and wild resources—and to get away from the constant connectivity to
those less natural distractions in our everyday lives.
So, as our team embarks on another year of passionate work for the resources we are charged to protect and manage and the stakeholders
we serve, I would encourage you to get outside and enjoy the opportunities that exist in this great landscape of ours. On behalf of the entire
Wildlife and Heritage Service family, I wish you a safe and successful season and would welcome the chance to hear your stories from the field!
Cheers and safe hunting.
Paul A. Peditto,
Director of the Maryland Wildlife & Heritage Service
4 2019–20 Maryland Guide to Hunting & Trapping
NEW HUNTING OPPORTUNITIES
AND REGULATIONS FOR 2019–2020 The most up-to-date
• The Maryland Department of Natural Resources will be offering
regulations online.
“do-it-yourself” hunts for stocked pheasants in 2019 (pg. 52). The
pheasant hunts will take place on public lands in several regions
of the state. Application information, dates, locations and other
resources are available at: https://dnr.maryland.gov/wildlife/Pages/
hunt_trap/Mentored-Hunt-Program.aspx. Apprentice license hold-
ers, junior license holders and hunters who have previously held
a Maryland hunting license, but not in the past three years, are
eligible to apply. For additional information contact Nancy Doran
AD SPACE
at 301-777-2136 or nancy.doran@maryland.gov
• Due to the recent detection of Chronic Wasting Disease in Harvest
Management Unit 251 in Washington County, the Chronic Wasting
Disease Management Area (CWDMA) has been expanded to
1/4 page vertical
include all of Allegany and Washington counties. See page 30.
• Additional Sunday Hunting opportunities are being provided in
Dorchester, Cecil, St. Mary’s and Wicomico counties. See the
Sunday Deer Hunting chart (pg. 24), the Small Game chart (pg.
53) and the Furbearers chart (pg. 55).
• In Cecil and Washington counties the safety zone for archery
hunters has been reduced. See page 12.
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ADDRESSES & PHONE NUMBERS
Natural Resources Maryland Natural Resources Mt. Nebo WMA Licensing and Registration
Police Offices Police has partnered 1728 Kings Run Rd., Service Centers
24-Hour Natural Resources with Maryland Wildlife Oakland, MD 21550 Licensing and Registration Service
Emergency or Assistance Crimestoppers to prevent 301-334-4255; FAX 301-334-6541 Centers offer the following: boat
Telephone: 800-628-9944 or poaching of our fish and wildlife Billmeyer WMA dealer licenses, commercial fishing
Natural Resource Police 24- resources. Are you aware of a 11701 Mountain Rd., NE licenses, hunting licenses, off-road
Hour Dispatch: 410-260-8888 poaching situation? Have you Flintstone, MD 21530 vehicle permits, recreational
Also use these phone numbers witnessed a wildlife crime? You 301-478-2525; FAX 301-777-9723 fishing licenses and vessel titles
to report natural resources can remain anonymous and may and registration. Information
be eligible for a cash reward. Indian Springs WMA
violations or ask questions on about Department of Natural
Call or text Maryland Wildlife 14038 Blairs Valley Rd.
wildlife regulations. Resources locations and activi-
Crimestoppers at 1-443-433-4112 Clear Spring, MD 21722
All regional offices are open ties, safety classes for hunters and
or email dnr.maryland.gov/hunters- 301-842-2702; FAX 301-842-1026
Mon–Fri, 8a.m.–4p.m. boaters and state parks and forests
guide/Pages/Crimestoppers.aspx. Baltimore, Carroll, Cecil, is also available. Visit dnr.maryland.
Somerset, Wicomico and
You can also report violations Harford, Howard, Montgomery gov/Pages/licensing.aspx.
Worcester counties
from your phone using the counties and Baltimore City Annapolis Service Center
Johnson Office Maryland DNR App! Central Region Main Office 160 Harry S Truman Pkwy.
32144 Mt. Olive Rd.
Law Enforcement Division of the
3740 Gwynnbrook Ave. mailing address: PO Box 1869,
Salisbury, MD 21804
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Owings Mills, MD 21117 Annapolis, MD 21401
Caroline, Dorchester,
410-228-2475 (Cambridge) 410-356-0941, FAX 866-344-8889 (toll free in MD),
Kent, Talbot and Queen 410-356-5063 410-260-3220
Anne’s counties Gwynnbrook WMA
Wildlife and Heritage Bel Air Service Center
Hillsboro Office Service Offices 3740 Gwynnbrook Ave. 501 West MacPhail Rd. #2
3001 Starr Rd. Please contact local offices listed Owings Mills, MD 21117 Bel Air, MD 21014
Queen Anne, MD 21657 below for more information on Reservations and permits 866-623-3187 (toll free in MD),
any of the following issues: bag are only available through 410-836-4550
Anne Arundel and Prince
limits, hunting licenses, hunting 410-356-9272,
George’s counties Centreville Service Center
permits and their requirements, Hours: 7:30a.m.–11:30a.m.,
Broadneck Office 120 Broadway Ave., STE 5/6
hunting seasons, Junior Hunt Aug. 12, 2019–Feb. 28, 2020
1070 East College Parkway Centreville, MD 21617
Days, managed hunts, permits Bel Air Wildlife Office 866-439-1708 (toll free in MD),
Annapolis, MD 21409 2 S. Bond St., Suite 101
and their requirements, public 410-819-4100
Calvert, Charles and hunting areas, stamps, trapping Bel Air, MD 21014
Cumberland Service Center
St. Mary’s counties seasons and wildlife regulations. 410-836-4559; FAX 410-836-4552
13300 Winchester Rd., SW
Indian Creek Office For information on specific Seneca Wildlife Office Cumberland, MD 21502
17823 Prince Frederick Road public lands use the phone 11960 Clopper Rd, 866-344-8889 (toll free in MD),
Hughesville, MD 20637 numbers listed in the Public Gaithersburg, MD 20878 301-777-2134
Hunting Lands section of this 301-258-7308
Baltimore, Carroll, Howard Tuesday and Thursday; walk in
guide (pg. 60).
and Montgomery counties Caroline, Dorchester, Kent, only, no mail in applications
Gwynnbrook Office Headquarters Queen Anne’s, Somerset, Essex Service Center
3738 Gwynnbrook Ave. Tawes State Office Building, E-1 Talbot, Wicomico and 1338 Eastern Blvd. A
Owings Mills, MD 21117 580 Taylor Ave. Worcester counties Essex, MD 21221
Annapolis, MD 21401 Eastern Region Main Office 866-535-8319 (toll free in MD),
Cecil and Harford counties
410-260-8540; FAX 410-260-8596 P.O. Box 68 667-401-0760; (Mon., Wed., and
Gwynnbrook Office
3738 Gwynnbrook Avenue Anne Arundel, Calvert, Wye Mills, MD 21679 Fri.; walk-in only, no mail-in
Owings Mills, MD 21117 Charles, Prince George’s 410-827-8612, ext.105, applications)
and St. Mary’s counties Millington WMA Frederick Service Center
Frederick and P.O. Box 52 1601-A Bowmans Farm Rd.
Southern Region Main Office
Washington counties 33626 Maryland Line Rd. Frederick, MD 21701
5625 Myrtle Grove Rd.
Echo Lake Office LaPlata, MD 20646 Massey, MD 21650 866-679-0906 (toll free in MD),
2011 Monument Rd. 301-743-5161, FAX 301-743-7317 410-928-3650; FAX 410-928-5482 240-236-9950
Myersville, MD 21773
Myrtle Grove WMA LeCompte WMA Prince Frederick Service Center
Allegany and Garrett counties 5625 Myrtle Grove Rd. 4220 Steele Neck Rd. 746 Prince Frederick Blvd.
Town Hill Office LaPlata, MD 20646 Vienna, MD 21869 Prince Frederick, MD 20678
11701 Mountain Rd. N.E. Reservations and permits 410-376-3236, 866-688-3823 (toll free in MD),
Flintstone, MD 21530 are only available through FAX 410-376-3916 410-535-3382
Emergencies on Boats
301-743-5161, Hours: 8a.m.– Wellington WMA Salisbury Service Center
Use VHF Marine Channel 16 noon, Aug. 13, 2019–Jan. 31, 32733 Dublin Rd. 251 Tilghman Rd., Room #2
(156.800 MHz, the nearest 2020, FAX 301-743-7317 Princess Anne, MD 21853 Salisbury, MD 21801
Natural Resources Police or Coast Allegany, Frederick, Garrett 410-543-8223, 866-812-1678 (toll free in MD),
Guard will assist you) or dial 911 and Washington counties 410-713-3840
on your cellular telephone. Western Region Main Office
12512 Pleasant Valley Road N.E.
Flintstone, MD 21530
301-777-2136; FAX 301-777-2029
6 2019–20 Maryland Guide to Hunting & Trapping
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HUNTING LICENSES
Hunting Licenses, and Muzzleloader Stamp upon successful Resident Junior Hunting License�������$10.50
Stamps and Permits completion of a Hunter Education Course. For Maryland residents under 16 years of
Please bring or fax the form provided by the age. Written permission of parent or guard-
Full Season Hunting Licenses are valid from course instructor to any Licensing and Reg- ian is required.
the day they are issued through the next July istration Service Center (pg. 6). A Maryland
31. A hunting license year is August 1 through resident who completes a Hunter Educa- Resident Senior Hunting License�������������$5
the next July 31. tion Course in another state may contact a For Maryland residents age 65 and above. It
Be aware that a hunting license holder is Licensing Service Center for the required may be purchased in the calendar year in which
required to have a printed paper copy or application form. a resident attains the age of 65.
electronic copy of their hunting license in
their possession while hunting. Full Season Hunting Licenses Senior Lifetime Consolidated License
A Full Season Hunting License allows a This license is no longer available for pur-
Hunter Education and person to hunt all legal game birds and chase. Persons who already hold this license
Safety Requirement mammals that are in season. There are are “grandfathered” and:
To hunt or purchase a hunting license state additional stamps or permits required • Do not need to purchase the Senior Hunting
law requires: for hunting deer, migratory game birds, fur- License, Archery or Muzzleloader Stamps.
• Presentation of a Certificate of Competency bearers and bear (see each game section for • Must buy a Bonus Antlered Deer Stamp to
in Firearms and Hunting Safety (required its requirements). hunt a bonus antlered deer.
of all first time hunters), or • Must purchase a Maryland Migratory Game
• Certification that you held a hunting license Resident Apprentice Bird Stamp to hunt migratory game birds.
issued prior to July 1, 1977, or Hunting License �����������������������������������������$10 • Must buy a Managed Hunt Permit (where
• Certification that you hunted on private For first-time Maryland resident hunters of required).
property prior to July 1, 1977, and were any age who never held a Maryland hunt- • Must purchase a Furbearer Permit to hunt
legally exempt from purchasing a hunting ing license. or chase furbearers.
license, or A person may not purchase an Appren- • Hunters must keep a record of their
• Certification that you are purchasing a tice Hunting License if they have previously confirmation numbers by using the Big
nonresident 3-day license (pg. 8) and will obtained any hunting license in Maryland. Game Harvest Record provided with their
only hunt waterfowl. Use of an Apprentice Hunting License license, creating their own record or stor-
requires the following: ing a record electronically on their mobile
Exceptions: Compliance with the Hunter • Successful completion of a short, online device. Proof of harvest must be furnished
Education and Safety Requirement does not hunter safety course is required prior to upon request. See Deer and Turkey Tagging
apply to those who are hunting only waterfowl purchasing this license. and Checking (pgs. 38-42).
with a Nonresident 3-day Waterfowl and Small • Appropriate stamps are required to
Game License (pg. 8) and those shooting under hunt migratory birds (pg. 9, federal and Nonresident Hunting License����������������$130
a Regulated Shooting Area Hunting License state duck stamps) and deer (pgs. 9-10 For hunters who are not Maryland residents
who are not hunting wild or free-flying captive- Archery, Bonus Antlered and Muzzle- and are age 16 to 64.
raised mallards (see Regulated Shooting Area loader Stamps).
Hunting License, pg. 9). • The apprentice hunter must be accompa- Nonresident Junior
The Natural Resources Police, Safety Educa- nied and directly supervised by a Mary- Hunting License������������������������������������ $32.50
tion and Outreach Unit provides the Hunter land resident at least 18 years old who For hunters who are not Maryland residents
Education Course required to obtain the possesses a valid Maryland non-apprentice and are under 16 years of age. Written permis-
Certificate of Competency in Firearms and hunting license. sion of parent or guardian is required.
Hunter Safety. In addition to traditional class- • The apprentice and mentor hunter must
room courses, an online course is available hunt in close proximity so that the mentor Nonresident Senior
for those age 13 and older that requires a can take immediate control of the appren- Hunting License������������������������������������������$65
mandatory one day Hunter Education Field tice hunter’s hunting device. For hunters who are not Maryland residents
Day Workshop. • The apprentice hunter can hunt unaccom- and are age 65 or older. This license may be
Information about Hunter Education panied if the full hunter safety course was purchased in the calendar year in which a
Courses, Boating Safety Education Courses taken and a Certificate of Competency in nonresident attains the age of 65.
and Trapper Education is available from Firearms and Hunting Safety was acquired.
the Maryland Natural Resources Police, Other Hunting Licenses
Safety Education and Outreach Unit, 305 Nonresident Apprentice Nonresident 3-Day Waterfowl
Marine Academy Drive, Suite 1, Stevensville, Hunting License������������������������������������������$20 and Small Game License��������������������������$45
MD 21666, 410-643-8502 and by visiting For first-time non-resident hunters of any age • This license allows nonresidents of Mary-
the website at dnr.maryland.gov/nrp/Pages/ who never held a Maryland hunting license. land to hunt all legal game in season except
default.aspx Applicants must comply with the requirements deer, bear and turkey for three consecutive
listed above. legal hunting days.
Note: RESIDENT Junior Hunters (under 16 • A Maryland Migratory Game Bird Stamp
years of age) are entitled to a one-time FREE Resident Regular Hunting License����$24.50 is required to hunt migratory game birds
annual hunting license, Archery Stamp For Maryland residents age 16 to 64. with this license.
8 2019–20 Maryland Guide to Hunting & Trapping• A Federal Migratory Bird Hunting and • This license cannot be used to hunt wild Hunting Stamps
Conservation Stamp is required to hunt or free-flying, captive-raised waterfowl on Federal Migratory Bird Hunting and
waterfowl and coots with this license. a Regulated Shooting Area. Conservation Stamp At National Wildlife
• A Furbearer Permit is required to hunt, • To hunt free-flying, captive-raised Refuges, U.S. Post Offices and at
chase or trap furbearers with a Non- mallard ducks or wild waterfowl on a duckstamp.com������������������������������������� $25
resident 3-Day Waterfowl and Small Game state-licensed Regulated Shooting Area a From the COMPASS portal at compass.
License. hunter must possess a Maryland hunt- dnr.maryland.gov/ OR any Licensing and
• The Hunter Education and Safety ing license, the printed validation show- Registration Service Center (pg. 6) OR a
Requirement does not apply to hunting ing proof of purchase of the Maryland Sport License agent������������������������������ $27
only wild waterfowl with this license. Migratory Game Bird Stamp and Harvest A Federal Migratory Bird Hunting and Conser-
Information Program certification and vation Stamp (federal duck stamp) is required
Nonresident Trapping License���������� $25.50 a Federal Migratory Bird Hunting and of all hunters 16 years of age or older to hunt
This license is required for nonresidents to Conservation Stamp or its proof of pur- brant, coots, ducks and geese (pg. 43).
trap furbearers (pg. 54-58) in Maryland in chase (if over the age of 15).
addition to a Nonresident Hunting License • A Regulated Shooting Area Hunting Maryland Migratory Game Bird Stamp����$9
and an Individual Furbearer Permit. License is not required if you have a valid A Maryland Migratory Game Bird Stamp is
Full Season Hunting License. required of all hunters to hunt all migratory
Regulated Shooting Area • Hunters on Regulated Shooting Areas may game birds in Maryland.
Hunting License��������������������������������������������$6 shoot captive-raised game birds on Sundays.
This license allows a person to shoot captive- Resident Archery Stamp ����������������������������$6
raised game birds on a state-licensed Regu- Stationary Blind and Nonresident Archery Stamp���������������� $25
lated Shooting Area only. Blind Site License���������������������������������������$20 An Archery Stamp is required to hunt deer
• A Regulated Shooting Area Hunting A Stationary Blind and Blind Site License allows during the Archery Season (pg. 18-26).
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dnr.maryland.gov 9HUNTING LICENSES
NOTE: Exceptions to the Archery and Snow Goose Conservation Order Hunting • The Maryland Migratory Game Bird Stamp
Muzzleloader Stamp requirements: Hunt- Season Permit�����������������������������������������������$5 and Federal Migratory Bird Hunting and
ers entitled to hunt without a license and A Maryland Snow Goose Conservation Order Conservation Stamp are required to be
hunters with a Senior Lifetime Consolidated Hunting Season Permit is required to partici- purchased annually and are not included
License do not need to purchase an Archery pate in the Light Goose Conservation Order with this license.
or Muzzleloader Stamp. Season (pg. 46). • Deer and turkey hunters must keep a record
of their confirmation numbers by using the
Resident Bonus Antlered Deer Stamp���$10 Hunting Fees Big Game Harvest Record provided with
Nonresident Bonus Antlered Black Bear Hunt Lottery their license, creating their own record
Deer Stamp��������������������������������������������� $25 Application Fee���������������������������������������$15 or storing a record electronically on their
A Bonus Antlered Deer Stamp allows hunting A Black Bear Hunting Permit is only avail- mobile device. Proof of harvest must be fur-
license holders to take one additional antlered able through the Maryland Black Bear Lottery nished upon request. See Deer and Turkey
white-tailed deer in Region B during one sea- process. The lottery application fee is non- Tagging and Checking (pgs. 38-42).
son of their choice (Archery, Muzzleloader or refundable (pg. 50).
Firearms, see pg. 19). Members of the Armed Forces
Purple Heart Recipients Hunting In Maryland
Hunting Permits Maryland residents who were recipients of the Active duty members of the Armed Forces
Archery Hunting Permit for the Purple Heart Award are eligible for a discounted stationed in Maryland:
Liberty, Loch Raven and hunting license and any associated stamps • are considered residents of Maryland.
Prettyboy Reservoirs������������������������� FREE and permits. This year’s discounted rate is 50 • must comply with the Hunter Education
Issued in cooperation of the Maryland Depart- percent of the regular price of the license or and Safety Requirement (pg. 8).
ment of Natural Resources, Wildlife and Heri- stamp. These discounted hunting licenses and • must purchase a Resident Hunting License
tage Service and the City of Baltimore Bureau of stamps can only be purchased in person at a and all required stamps and permits before
Water and Wastewater. Allows archery hunting Licensing and Registration Service Center (pg. hunting, unless they are on official leave
only on the Liberty, Loch Raven and Prettyboy 6). Documentation proving the Purple Heart and possess a copy of their official leave
Reservoirs (pg. 63). Award was received by the hunter must be orders.
Central Region Public provided at the time of purchase. The Purple • while hunting during official leave in
Hunting Permit������������������������������������ FREE Heart medal does not suffice as proof of receiv- Maryland with a copy of their official
Required for certain public hunting areas in ing the award. All other requirements apply, leave orders:
Baltimore, Carroll, Cecil, Harford, Howard, for obtaining a hunting license and stamps. »» do not need to purchase a hunt-
Montgomery, Kent and Queen Anne’s Coun- ing license, deer stamps or Managed
ties. To obtain the free Central Region Public Complimentary DAV-POW Hunt Permit.
Hunting Permit apply online at dnr.maryland. Hunting Licenses »» must purchase a Maryland Migratory
gov/wildlife/Pages/publiclands/wmacentral.aspx. A Complimentary Lifetime Hunting License is Game Bird Stamp, a Federal Migratory
Please call the Gwynnbrook Office at 410-356- available to Maryland residents certified as a Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp
9272 between 7:30-11:30 a.m. with questions former prisoner of war or a 100 percent service- and a Furbearer Permit to pursue mi-
or for instructions on how to apply by mail or connected disabled American veteran (Veterans gratory game birds and furbearers.
in person. Administration documentation is required).
Southern Region Public • This free lifetime hunting license is avail- Any nonresident serving in the Armed Forces
Hunting Permit������������������������������������ FREE able only at Licensing and Registration who is on leave in Maryland, but not stationed
Required for certain public hunting areas Service Centers (pg. 6). in Maryland, must purchase a Nonresident
in Anne Arundel, Calvert, Charles, Prince • This license also includes free, lifetime Hunting License before hunting.
George’s and St. Mary’s counties. You can now Archery Stamps, Muzzleloader Stamps and
apply for the Southern Region Hunting Permit Furbearer Permits.
online. For information, go to dnr.maryland.gov/
wildlife/Pages/publiclands/wmasouthern.aspx. For
questions regarding specific areas and other ONLINE LICENSE SYSTEM
methods to apply, please call the Myrtle Grove The web-based COMPASS licensing system provides the fastest and greenest way
office at 301-743-5161 between 8 a.m.- noon. to purchase your hunting license. In addition to our seven Licensing and Registra-
tion Service Centers and more than 250 sport license agents, this web-based system
Individual Furbearer Permit������������������������$5 is available 24/7 for self-service online purchases. Connect to COMPASS through
Group Furbearer Permit������������������������$10 dnr.maryland.gov/Pages/licensing.aspx.
A Furbearer Permit is required to hunt, chase
or trap any furbearer (pg. 54-56). On your first visit, you will supply your personal information. You will receive a free DNRid
number and can then print your free DNRid Card. Your DNRid number is all that will be
Managed Hunt Permit�������������������������������$35 needed to locate your account for future purchases. Licenses are available for instant
The annual Managed Hunt Permit is required to printing and an electronic copy is emailed within 30 minutes after purchase if you have
hunt Department of Natural Resources proper- provided an email address. Hunting and recreational fishing licenses can be reprinted
ties that charge for managed hunts and covers at any time, free of charge. Hunters can print additional Big Game Harvest Records and
all such hunts on these lands (pg. 30-31). check your harvest, both free, through COMPASS online.
10 2019–20 Maryland Guide to Hunting & TrappingWho May Hunt Without • A person who is a retired former member Purchasing Your Hunting
a Hunting License of the Armed Services and hunting on Licenses, Stamps and Permits
All Maryland hunters must comply with farmland that is in active farming status A DNRid number is required to obtain hunt-
the Hunter Education and Safety Require- and owned by the person or the per- ing and trapping licenses, stamps and permits.
ment (pg. 8). son’s spouse, child, child’s spouse, parent, A DNRid Card and number, hunting
grandparent, sibling, niece or nephew. licenses, stamps, permits and Big Game Har-
You are not required to possess a Maryland A retired former armed forces member vest Records are available through:
hunting license if you are: who hunts on farmland without a hunt- • the COMPASS portal at dnr.maryland.gov/
• a resident of Maryland (or their spouse) ing license must possess the retired Pages/licensing.aspx.
who owns property and who hunts only military identification card and written • Licensing and Registration Service Cen-
on that property. This also applies to: permission from the owner of the farm ters- Services, hours, addresses and phone
»» The landowner’s children and grand- property specifying the relationship of numbers are listed on page 6.
children if they are under the age of 16. the person to the owner of the property. • Sport License Agents- A list of agents is
»» The landowner’s children and grand- available at: dnr.maryland.gov/Pages/licensing.
children, and the spouse of the chil- Be aware that hunters not required to have aspx and your local Licensing and Registra-
dren or grandchildren, regardless of a license: tion Service Center can provide the location
age, if the child, grandchild, or their • must obtain a free DNRid number avail- for Sport License agents near you.
spouse lives on the property, or has able through the COMPASS portal at
worked on the property for at least compass.dnr.maryland.gov/ OR any Licensing You may obtain a hunting license 24 hours a
30 days during the preceding 12 and Registration Service Center (pg. 6) OR day, seven days a week through the COMPASS
months, or manages the property. a Sport License agent. portal at dnr.maryland.gov/Pages/licensing.aspx.
(Each person must individually qualify • must keep a record of their deer and tur- If you provide an email address, a copy of your
under these criteria. To qualify for this key confirmation numbers by using the Big license will be emailed to you 30 minutes after
exemption, a landowner does not need Game Harvest Record provided with their purchase. The license immediately authorizes
to live on the property but must be able license, creating their own record or stor- your participation in all purchased activities,
to prove ownership.) ing a record electronically on their mobile including deer and turkey hunting. Supporting
• A person (or their spouse) who holds land device. Proof of harvest must be furnished documents for some privileges will be mailed.
under lease for agricultural purposes (or upon request. See Deer and Turkey Tagging Payment can be made by electronic check, Visa,
a sharecropper), and lives on this farm- and Checking (pgs. 38-42). Master Card or Discover.
land, and hunts only on this farmland. • must have a Maryland Migratory Game You may obtain a Hunting License Appli-
This also applies to: Bird Stamp to hunt migratory game birds. cation by calling or visiting a Licensing and
»» The lessee’s children and grandchildren • must possess the Federal Migratory Bird Registration Service Center or from the website:
if they are under the age of 16. Hunting and Conservation Stamp to hunt dnr.maryland.gov/Pages/licensing.aspx. Complete
»» The lessee’s children and grandchil- waterfowl and coots. all applicable sections and mail it with the
dren, and their spouses, if the child, • must obtain a Furbearer Permit to hunt, appropriate fee to any Licensing and Regis-
grandchild, or spouse of the child or trap or chase any furbearer. tration Service Center (pg. 6). Applicants for
grandchild, lives on the property, or • are not required to purchase Archery nonresident licenses are required to submit a
has worked on the property for at Deer Stamps, Muzzleloader Deer Stamps copy of their driver’s license, voter registration
least 30 days during the preceding 12 or Bonus Antlered Deer Stamps. card or home state hunting/trapping license.
months, or manages the property. Lost or damaged hunting licenses can
• A nonresident (or their spouse) who owns Nonresidents of Maryland who own property be reprinted for free. Call any Licensing and
a contiguous piece of farmland that is in in the state and hunt on that property are Registration Service Center or log into your
both Virginia and Maryland and the per- required to purchase a Nonresident Hunt- account at compass.dnr.maryland.gov.
son’s primary residence is on the Virginia ing License and all other appropriate stamps
portion of the property. Thus, they may and permits.
hunt on the Maryland portion of the prop- Individuals who are exempt from Maryland
erty without a Maryland hunting license. hunting license requirements are subject to
This also applies to the owner’s children all state and federal laws and regulations
and grandchildren if they are under the relative to hunting and trapping.
age of 16.
• A Maryland resident serving in the Armed Universal Disability Pass
Forces that is on official leave in Maryland Hunters with mobility impairments may
(whether stationed in Maryland or outside obtain a free Universal Disability Pass that will
Maryland) and possesses a copy of offi- allow them to hunt from a vehicle in desig-
cial leave orders while hunting. nated areas. Applications are available from the
• A person serving in the Armed Forces website dnr.maryland.gov/Documents/vehiclept.
who has a service-connected disability pdf. See Public Hunting Lands (pgs. 60-63)
and possesses a valid military identification for areas that have provisions for the mobility
while hunting. impaired. Please contact each area for their
specific conditions.
dnr.maryland.gov 11HUNTING REGULATIONS
Hunting Regulations Liability pink clothing promotes hunter safety because it
and Requirements Any person hunting on private property shall be is easy for other hunters to see outdoors. Except
liable for any damage caused by that person to as noted in the exemptions below, a daylight
General Regulations private property while hunting. The landowner fluorescent color outer garment or hat must be
• A hunter must carry personal photo iden- may not be liable for accidental injury or damage worn by all people who hunt any wildlife or
tification (such as a driver’s license) or a to the hunter, whether or not the landowner or accompany, aid or assist a hunter in a field, marsh,
secondary form of positive identification the landowner’s agent or lessee has given permis- wooded area or on the water. Even those who are
while hunting. sion to hunt. For additional information regard- exempt from this requirement are encouraged to
• A hunting license holder is required to have ing landowner liability read Bulletin EB357 wear fluorescent color clothing when hunting.
a printed paper copy or electronic copy (Landowner Liability and Recreational Access) Whenever hunting, both hunters and com-
of their hunting license in their possession at the University of Maryland Extension’s web- panions must wear either:
while hunting. site (https://extension.umd.edu/learn/publications/ • a cap of solid daylight fluorescent orange
• It is unlawful to hunt any game bird or mam- landowner-liability-and-recreational-access-eb-357). or daylight fluorescent pink color worn as
mal while under the influence of alcohol an outer garment on the head at all times;
or any narcotic drug. Controlling Hunter Use of Private Property • a vest or jacket containing back and front
• It is unlawful to hunt any animal other than Posting property boundaries in a conspicuous panels of at least 250 square inches of solid
deer on the first day of Deer Firearms Sea- manner makes it illegal to trespass or for any daylight fluorescent orange or fluorescent pink
son, except sea ducks in the Sea Duck Zone. person to enter without the landowner’s per- color worn as an outer garment at all times; or
• It is a violation of law to cast the rays of an
mission. Maryland law allows the use of blue • an outer garment of camouflage daylight
artificial light from a vehicle on dwellings paint stripes and/or signs to indicate private fluorescent orange or daylight fluorescent
or buildings, fields, livestock, orchards, wild
property boundaries. Vertical paint marks at pink worn above the waist which contains
mammals and birds, or woods. However, least 2 inches in width and 8 inches in length at least 50 percent daylight fluorescent color.
in Baltimore City, Montgomery and Prince must be centered at least 3 feet, but no more
George’s counties, a person may cast the raysthan 6 feet, from the ground or water surface. Persons required to wear fluorescent color cloth-
of an artificial light from a vehicle for theThe paint must be oil-based and bright blue. ing that hunt from a ground blind that has four
sole purpose of observing or photograph- sides, a top and is placed 4 feet or less above
ing wildlife until 9 p.m. A person may not Sunday Hunting the ground must display, on or within 25 feet
have a hunting device in their possession • A person who possesses a Falconry Permit of the blind, a cap of solid daylight fluorescent
while casting rays of an artificial light. Note: may hunt specified game birds and mam- orange or daylight fluorescent pink color or a
coyotes, foxes, opossums or raccoons may mals on Sundays during the open season panel, band, strip, or garment containing at least
be hunted on foot at nighttime during open (pgs. 47 and 58). 250 square inches (approximately 16 inches by
season with the use of a dog and light. • An unarmed person participating in an orga- 16 inches) of solid daylight fluorescent orange
• Safety Zones: It is illegal to hunt, shoot nized fox chase may chase foxes on Sundays. or daylight fluorescent pink color.
or trap wildlife within 150 yards of any • Persons hunting on Regulated Shooting
building or camp occupied by human beings Areas may shoot captive raised game birds Be aware that:
without permission of the owner or occu- (except free-flying captive-raised waterfowl) • Property owners and their spouses and
pant. For archery hunters this distance is 100 on Sundays. children (while hunting on the property
yards in Anne Arundel County and 50 yards • Persons may hunt deer (pg. 24), turkeys (pg. owned) are required to wear fluorescent
in Calvert, Carroll, Cecil, Frederick, Harf- 37), small game (pg. 53) and furbearers (pg. color clothing.
ord, Montgomery and St. Mary’s counties. In 55) on certain Sundays in certain areas. • Those who hunt with archery equipment
Harford, archers must use a tree stand when during the Junior Deer Hunting Days, Deer
hunting between 50 and 100 yards of any State Owned Lands Firearms and Deer Muzzleloader Seasons are
building or camp occupied by human beings. • It is illegal to target shoot on state lands required to wear fluorescent color clothing.
In Montgomery and Washington counties, except in designated areas. • Deer archery hunters hunting in Allegany,
archers must be in an elevated position when • It is a violation of law to construct or use Frederick, Garrett and Washington coun-
hunting between 50 and 100 yards of any permanent blinds or tree stands on state- ties during the open black bear season are
building or camp occupied by human beings. owned or controlled properties, unless required to wear fluorescent color clothing.
• It is unlawful to discharge a firearm within provided by the Department of Natural
300 yards of a public or nonpublic school Resources. Tree stands and blinds are lim- Those exempt from the requirement of
while hunting. This prohibition only applies ited to those of a temporary nature which wearing fluorescent color clothing are:
during school hours or when the building must be removed at the end of each day. • except as noted above, a person who hunts
is occupied. This safety zone does not apply • It is unlawful to trap on state lands without deer during the Deer Archery Season.
to colleges, universities or home schools. written permission from the controlling • a person authorized by a Falconry Permit
• It is unlawful to tamper with and remove agency. who hunts game birds or mammals using
the catch from any legally set trap. • It is illegal to place bait for hunting on falcons, hawks or owls.
state lands. • a person who hunts or accompanies, aids or
Hunting on Private Property assists another person hunting the follow-
Written permission is required from the prop- Fluorescent Color Clothing ing species: brant, coot, crow, dove, ducks,
erty owner to hunt or trap on private property Requirements and Exceptions furbearing mammals, geese, rails, snipe,
in all counties. Daylight fluorescent orange or daylight fluorescent wild turkey.
12 2019–20 Maryland Guide to Hunting & TrappingHUNTING SAFETY TIPS
Hunting Safety Tips you will return. Include a map to better • Limit shots to distances you are accurate
explain your location. and comfortable with (typically 40 yards
Tree stands can be dangerous if they are used • Keep a survival pack with you that includes maximum for crossbows and 30 yards for
incorrectly or carelessly. Tree stand accidents a whistle, cell phone, flashlight and a basic vertical bows).
are the leading cause of hunter injuries in first aid kit. • Always use manufacturer recommended
Maryland. This follows the national trend in • Never hunt from a tree stand without using arrow or bolt weights.
that over 50 percent of all hunting accidents a full-body safety harness. • Practice with the same type broadhead
are tree stand related. Most tree stand accidents • More information on tree stand safety is you plan to hunt with.
occur in transition from a climbing device to available at tmastands.com.
the tree stand and from the tree stand onto the Turkey Hunting Safety Tips
climbing device. Other injuries occur when Firearms Safety Tips
the tree stand fails or from the incorrect instal- Follow these suggestions to ensure a safe tur-
lation of a manufactured stand. Please follow • Treat every gun as if it were loaded. Never key hunting experience:
these safety tips. Your life or livelihood may play with a firearm. • Leave the area if you suspect there’s another
depend on it. • Never point a gun at anything you don’t hunter already working the same bird.
• Always read, understand and practice the want to shoot. • Resist the urge to stalk turkey sounds as
manufacturer’s recommendations before • Always control the muzzle direction in they could be made by another hunter.
using any climbing equipment or tree case of a fall. • Select a spot that is in open timber rather
stand. • Keep the barrel and action clear of obstruc- than thick brush: wearing camouflage
• Check and repair all tree stands and climb- tions. Carry only the proper ammunition clothing and eliminating movement is
ing equipment every year before hunting. for your firearm. more critical to success than hiding in
• Use updated equipment. Newer tree stand • Be sure of your target and what is beyond heavy cover.
equipment is solid, safe and secure. it. Always know the identifying features • Sit against a large stump, blow-down,
• Always practice installing a hang-on tree of the game you hunt. tree trunk or rock that is wider than your
stand at ground level before attempting an • Unload guns and open the action when shoulders and higher than your head when
elevated installation. not in use. calling wild turkeys.
• Always use a full-body safety harness/fall • Never climb a tree or jump a ditch with • Never wear bright colors, especially not
restraint system when climbing a tree or in a loaded gun. Never pull the gun toward red, white, blue or black because these
a tree stand. Never use a waist belt or rope you by the muzzle. are the colors of a wild turkey gobbler.
as a substitute for this safety equipment. • Never shoot a bullet at flat, hard surfaces Watch out for red, white or blue on your
• Only climb healthy trees. or water. socks, t-shirts, hooded sweatshirts, hats,
• Use your climbing device or tree stand for • Store guns and ammunition separately, bandanas etc. Wear dark undershirts and
support; branches may give way under beyond the reach of children and careless socks, and pants long enough to be tucked
your weight. adults. Use trigger locks. into boots.
• Use three points of contact with the tree or • Never use alcoholic beverages or medi- • Remain still and speak in a loud, clear
climbing device for a secure hold. cations that cause drowsiness before or voice to announce your presence to other
• Climb higher than your stand and step during the use of a firearm. hunters if necessary. Never move, wave
down onto it. Climbing up into the stand or make turkey sounds to alert another
can dislodge it causing a fall. Archery Safety Tips hunter of your presence.
• Wear boots with non-skid soles. Steps or • Keep your hands and head camouflaged
platforms may be slippery in rain, sleet, • Always identify your target and back- when calling.
or snow. ground before you shoot. • Maintain a clear field of view when using
• When using a two piece climbing stand, • Never walk or climb a tree with a knocked a camouflage blind or netting.
make sure to connect the two pieces with arrow in a vertical bow or a crossbow • Ensure your decoy is not visible when
a strap or rope to prevent the bottom por- loaded with a bolt. you are transporting it. Stash the decoy
tion from dropping away. • Unload or uncock your crossbow before in your vest and make sure the head is
• Never carry anything while you are climb- transporting. An unloaded crossbow does not sticking out.
ing. Use a haul line to get hunting devices not have a bolt or arrow in the firing posi- • If you harvest a wild turkey during your
and other equipment into and out of your tion. Uncock it by using an uncocking hunting trip, you should cover the bird’s
stand. Make sure guns and crossbows are device or by shooting into a safe backstop. head and body when carrying it out from
unloaded and broadheads are covered prior • Keep your fingers and thumb down on the your hunting spot.
to raising or lowering them with a haul line. crossbow forearm out of the path of travel • Put your gun’s safety on and approach the
• As a precautionary measure, clear the for the string and cables. downed bird with your firearm pointed
ground of debris below your stand and • Never shoot if there is a doubt about the in a safe direction after firing. Never run
climbing device. shot. with a firearm.
• If you are sleepy, climb down from your • Never shoot if the animal is alert and • Use extreme caution if using a turkey
stand and hunt from the ground. excited. decoy or any part of a decoy to shield your
• Leave a hunting plan with a responsible • Know exactly where the arrow or bolt will approach to a turkey. This action could
adult or where rescuers will find it. Include hit before you pull the trigger or release draw the attention of another hunter and
specifically where you will hunt and when the string (practice, practice, practice). lead to an accident.
dnr.maryland.gov 13You can also read
