The Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife establishes hunting seasons in the state (MDIFW). The hunting seasons differ according to species and hunting region. The following is a summary of Maine's hunting seasons:
Deer hunting season: The deer hunting season normally runs from late October to late December, although various regions of the state have varied hunting zones and seasons. Each year, the MDIFW releases a deer hunting season calendar, which hunters should reference for precise dates and rules.
Season for bear hunting: Typically, bear hunting season spans from early September until late October. Various regions of the state have different hunting zones and seasons, and the MDIFW publishes an annual bear hunting season calendar.
The moose hunting season normally runs from the middle of September until the end of October. Various regions of the state have different hunting zones and seasons, and the MDIFW publishes an annual moose hunting season calendar.
Small game hunting season in Maine involves hunting for rabbits, squirrels, and pheasants, among other species. Typically, the small game hunting season extends from mid-September until the end of December.
The waterfowl hunting season in Maine normally lasts from September through December and consists of many periods. Each year, the MDIFW issues a schedule for the waterfowl hunting season, which hunters should reference for precise dates and hunting rules.
Noting that hunting seasons and restrictions might vary from year to year, hunters should always check the most recent hunting season schedules and laws before to hunting in Maine.