Maryland archery season offers archers a range of prey options. Maryland is one of the most under-appreciated states for the sport. The beautiful landscapes and variety of game species make it one of the most desired hunting locations in the northeast United States. Habitats range from fields and wooded areas to small streams and swamps.
Maryland (MD) Archery Season, 2022-2023
Hunting season in Maryland offers excellent furbearer and waterfowl hunting. Additionally, Maryland has sika and whitetail deer, wild turkey, and black bear hunting. Enjoy fantastic hunting opportunities on the Atlantic Ocean coastline and the Appalachian Mountains.
When does Archery Season Start in MD?
Maryland Sika and Whitetail Deer Seasons
- Archery September 9-October 19 / October 23-November 25
*Sunday Whitetail deer hunting is available in specific counties. Dates vary by region unless otherwise noted.
Maryland Wild Turkey Seasons
- Fall General Season October 29-November 6
- Winter General Season January 19-21
- Spring General Season April 18-May 23
- Spring Junior Hunt April 15-16
*Allegany, Garrett, and Washington counties allow turkey hunting in the fall.
Maryland Black Bear Seasons
- General Season October 24-29
*A special permit is required for hunting black bears. Hunters may harvest one bear per season.
Maryland Small Game Seasons
- Rabbit November 5-February 28
- Squirrel September 3-February 28
- Quail November 5-January 15**
- Ruffed Grouse October 2-January 31
- Pheasant November 5-February 28
- Crow August 15-March 15
*Season dates vary by region. Some public lands may be closed to hunting. The season for the Delmarva fox squirrel is under suspension until further notice. Special seasons, bag limits, and hunting regulations vary based on seasons and animals.
What are the Legal Hunting Hours in Maryland?
Hunting is allowed between 30-minutes before sunrise and to 30-minutes before sunset.
Hunting Licenses and Permits in MD
Visit the Maryland Department of Natural Resources website for more information on licenses and permits.
Maryland Residents
A Maryland resident is anyone that permanently resides in the state (homeowner or renter). Active-duty military personnel and students stationed or studying in Maryland are residents.
Non-Residents
Non-residents must purchase a non-resident hunting license—additional requirements for deer during specific seasons for furbearers, migratory game birds, and black bears.
Youth Hunting Licenses
Maryland residents and non-residents age 16 may purchase a junior hunting license with written permission. Maryland residents under 16 who complete a hunter education course are eligible for a free one-time hunting license. This license includes the Archery Stamp.
Senior Hunting Licenses
Maryland residents aged 65 or over are eligible for a Resident Senior Hunting License at a reduced fee.
Disability Licenses
Maryland doesn’t offer hunting licenses specifically for disabled persons. People with mobility impairment can obtain a Universal Disability Pass to hunt from a vehicle.
Military and Veteran Licenses
Active-duty military personnel stationed in Maryland can purchase resident hunting licenses. Additionally, Maryland residents that are active-duty military personnel stationed elsewhere do not need to apply for a hunting license while on leave.
Migratory Waterfowl Requirements
Hunters aged 16 or older must buy a Federal Duck Stamp and Maryland Migratory Game Bird Stamp when hunting migratory waterfowl. With their state stamp, hunters receive proof of Harvest Information Program (HIP) participation.
License Expirations
Hunting licenses are valid from the date of purchase to July 31. The license occurs from August 1 to July 31 of the following year.
Check out our guide 30+ Hunting Rules to Keep You Safe while bowhunting in the wild.
