mefishwildlife.com

2022-2023 Hunting law book now online!

Being a responsible user of the Maine outdoors means staying informed of, and complying with, the current laws and rules.   View and search Maine's hunting laws online at mefishwildlife.com/huntinglaws   You can also download a PDF of the law book to your phone so you always have it with you, even if you don't have cellphone reception. Learn how.

Updated and new laws

Below are a few updates and changes for the 2022-2023 hunting seasons. As a hunter it is your responsibility to view all of Maine's hunting laws. 

Antlerless Deer Permits: Beginning in 2022, a licensed hunter with an antlerless deer permit can harvest an antlerless deer in the designated district and an antlered deer statewide. Learn more about antlerless deer permits and apply for a permit online.

Persons may take antlerless deer without an antlerless deer permit only in designated WMDs/subunits during the regular archery and crossbow season and on Youth Deer Hunting Day. An antlerless deer permit is required in non-designated WMDs/subunits. Learn more about deer hunting laws.

Bear Trapping Permit Requirements: Effective as of January 1, 2022, to purchase a bear trapping permit you have three options. Under one of these options, a person may trap a bear with their big game hunting license as long as they have taken the NEW Black Bear Trapping Education course and obtained a bear trapping permit. Learn more about the 3 options to purchase a bear trapping permit.

Civil Trespass with Hunting Dog: If you plan to hunt bear, bobcat, coyote, raccoon, and fox with dogs, OR train for bear, fox, and raccoon, click here to learn about the new Civil Trespass with Hunting Dog law and Dog Training and Hunting Permit requirement.

More information

Buy a hunting license or permit online

View 2022-2023 season dates and bag limits

Enroll in a safety course

Plan a hunt in Maine