🦌 2026–2027 Season

Maryland Deer Season Dates

Maryland is a sleeper trophy state in the Eastern panhandle region.

Whitetail Deer
⚠️ Always verify dates with the official state agency before heading into the field — season dates can change year to year. Visit Maryland DNR →

Maryland 2026–2027 Season Dates

🏹
Archery Season
Sep 6 – Jan 31
🎯
Rifle Season
Nov 22 – Dec 13
💨
Muzzleloader Season
Oct 19 – Oct 25 & Dec 27 – Jan 10

Maryland Hunting License Costs

Resident License
~$24
Approximate — fees change annually
Non-Resident License
~$130
Approximate — tags may require separate draw
Buy Your License
Purchase through the official state agency to ensure you have the correct license and tags.
Visit Maryland DNR →

Maryland Opening Day Gear Checklist

Don't leave the truck without these. This checklist covers the essentials for any deer hunt — whether you're on public land or a private lease.

✓
Hunting license & tags
Printed or digital — required in the field
✓
Safety harness
Non-negotiable for tree stand hunters
✓
Trail camera / cellular cam
Pre-season scouting intel
✓
Rangefinder
Know the distance before the shot
✓
Scent control spray & clothing
Reduce your human odor signature
✓
Field dressing kit
Knife, gloves, game bags
✓
Binoculars
Glass before you move
✓
Headlamp (red light)
Preserve night vision on dark walks in
✓
First aid kit
Always in the pack
✓
Communication device
Cell phone or satellite messenger in remote areas