Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife





*mefishwildlife.com*






Don't wait for fall to go hunting...
two people hunting in winter

Targeting a new species is an exciting challenge to learn something new, an opportunity to spend more time outside, create memories with friends and family, and to secure delicious table fare. Here are a few hunting opportunities to try:

snowshoe hare
*Snowshoe Hare *

One of the enjoyable aspects of hunting in the winter is the ability to easily see fresh animal tracks in the snow! Grab a pair of snowshoes and hire a guide [ [link removed] ], who may have a trained dog, for an enjoyable winter hunt, or try to find hare located in brushy areas and softwoods stands.

"Snowshoe hare season is September 28, 2024 - March 31, 2025 in all Wildlife Management Districts with the exception of Vinalhaven Island, Knox County which has a season end date of February 28, 2025.

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bobcat
*Predators*

Maine predator seasons are long providing hunters ample opportunity. Calling is a popular tactic for luring in wary predators. Many seek the help from a registered Maine guide where bobcats are typically hunted using hounds.

*Season Dates: 
*Bobcat: December 2, 2024 - February 21, 2025
Fox: October 21, 2024 - February 28, 2025
Coyote Night Hunt: December 16, 2024 - August 30, 2025
Coyote Day Hunt: Year round



shed deer antler in the snow
Shed hunting

This may not be the "hunting" we normally talk about, but shed hunting is a great way for hunters to stay active, learn how deer and moose habits change throughout the year, and scout for upcoming seasons. Did we mention it is also an excellent workout?

 



*Plan your Hunt* [ [link removed] ]


*Purchase your 2025 Hunting License Online* [ [link removed] ]


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woman setting trap for beaver
Interested in learning to trap?

The general furbearer trapping season closed on December 31, however the winter trapping season remains open for beaver and muskrat well into April. Winter is an excellent time to strap on the snowshoes and seek a new challenge. Under the ice trapping is a great way to target these abundant species, and you may find yourself helping address landowner concerns regarding growing beaver populations.

Beavers are found throughout the state and provide families with a local food source of high quality protein; and the superior warmth, beauty, and long-lasting durability of fur garments makes it a mainstay in many northern communities.

If you are interested in learning to trap, enrolling in a trapper education course is a great first-step. Trapping courses are in-person only, and upcoming courses are listed online. [ [link removed] ] Please check back regularly as classes are added each month.

Or ask a friend to tag along. Modern day trappers are often eager to share their knowledge, often acquired over years of trial and error, and fine tuning their strategy. If you don't know anyone who traps, consider joining a trapping-related Facebook group. 

Curious how regulated trapping helps keep Maine's wildlife healthy? 



*Learn More about Trapping* [ [link removed] ]


*Enroll in a Trapper Education Course* [ [link removed] ]






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More information

Purchase a hunting license or permit online [ [link removed] ]
Plan your hunt [ [link removed] ]
Find a place to hunt [ [link removed] ]
Search Maine's hunting laws [ [link removed] ]
Exploring the outdoors on private land [ [link removed] ]
Hunting with nonlead ammunition [ [link removed] ]








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This email was sent to [email protected] using GovDelivery Communications Cloud on behalf of: Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife ·41 State House Station · Augusta, ME 04333-0041 · (207) 287-8000 GovDelivery logo [ [link removed] ]