When Is Hunting Season in Massachusetts? (2023-2024)

When Is Hunting Season in Massachusetts?

The start and end dates of hunting seasons in Massachusetts vary depending on the species of animal and the location where you are hunting. In general, hunting seasons run from late September through early January. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, the spring turkey hunting season runs from April through May, and the late winter coyote hunting season runs from February through March.

Before you head out to the woods, be sure to check the current hunting regulations to make sure you are familiar with all of the rules and regulations that apply to the species you are hunting. You can find these regulations on the Massachusetts Department of Fish and Wildlife website.

In this article, we will provide a detailed overview of the hunting seasons for each of the major game species in Massachusetts. We will also discuss the different types of licenses and permits that you need to purchase in order to hunt in the state.

“`html

Game	Season	Dates
Deer	Archery	September 15 – December 31
Deer	Muzzleloader	December 1 – December 31
Deer	Shotgun	January 1 – January 31
Turkey	Spring	April 1 – May 31
Turkey	Fall	November 1 – November 30

“`

General Hunting Seasons in Massachusetts

The hunting seasons in Massachusetts vary depending on the type of game you are hunting. The following is a general overview of the hunting seasons in Massachusetts:

• Big game hunting seasons
• Deer hunting season: November 15 to December 31
• Moose hunting season: September 1 to December 31
• Bear hunting season: October 15 to November 30
• Mountain lion hunting season: January 1 to March 31
• Small game hunting seasons
• Rabbit hunting season: October 1 to March 31
• Squirrel hunting season: October 1 to March 31
• Quail hunting season: October 1 to March 31
• Pheasant hunting season: October 1 to March 31
• Bird hunting seasons
• Duck hunting season: October 1 to January 31
• Goose hunting season: October 1 to January 31
• Woodcock hunting season: October 1 to January 31
• Snipe hunting season: October 1 to January 31
• Fishing seasons
• Trout fishing season: April 1 to November 30
• Salmon fishing season: June 1 to November 30
• Striped bass fishing season: May 1 to December 31

Please note that these are just general guidelines, and the specific dates and regulations for each hunting season may vary depending on the town or county where you are hunting. For more specific information, please contact the Massachusetts Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Specific Hunting Seasons in Massachusetts

In addition to the general hunting seasons listed above, there are also a number of specific hunting seasons for specific types of game in Massachusetts. The following is a list of some of the specific hunting seasons in Massachusetts:

• Deer hunting season
• The deer hunting season in Massachusetts runs from November 15 to December 31. During this time, hunters are allowed to take one antlered deer and one antlerless deer.
• The deer hunting season is divided into two phases: the early season and the late season. The early season runs from November 15 to November 29, and the late season runs from December 1 to December 31.
• The bag limit for antlered deer is one per hunter per day, and the bag limit for antlerless deer is two per hunter per day.
• Hunters must have a valid Massachusetts hunting license and a deer permit to hunt deer in Massachusetts.
• Turkey hunting season
• The turkey hunting season in Massachusetts runs from April 1 to May 31. During this time, hunters are allowed to take one turkey per day.
• The turkey hunting season is divided into two phases: the spring season and the fall season. The spring season runs from April 1 to May 15, and the fall season runs from May 16 to May 31.
• The bag limit for turkeys is one per hunter per day.
• Hunters must have a valid Massachusetts hunting license and a turkey permit to hunt turkeys in Massachusetts.
• Quail hunting season
• The quail hunting season in Massachusetts runs from October 1 to March 31. During this time, hunters are allowed to take one quail per day.
• The quail hunting season is divided into two phases: the early season and the late season. The early season runs from October 1 to November 30, and the late season runs from December 1 to March 31.
• The bag limit for quail is one per hunter per day.
• Hunters must have a valid Massachusetts hunting license and a quail permit to hunt quail in Massachusetts.
• Duck hunting season
• The duck hunting season in Massachusetts runs from October 1 to January 31. During this time, hunters are allowed to take a variety of ducks, including mallards, black ducks, pintails, and wood ducks.
• The duck hunting season is divided into two phases: the early season and the late season. The early season runs from October 1 to November 30, and the late season runs from December 1 to January 31.
• The bag limit for ducks varies depending on the species of duck.
• Hunters must have a valid Massachusetts hunting license and a duck stamp to hunt ducks in Massachusetts.

Please note that these are just general guidelines, and the specific dates and regulations for each hunting season may vary depending on the town or county where you are hunting. For more specific information, please contact the Massachusetts

When Is Hunting Season in Massachusetts?

The hunting season in Massachusetts varies depending on the species of animal. The general hunting season runs from September 1st through March 31st, but there are some exceptions. For example, the deer hunting season runs from October 1st through December 31st, and the turkey hunting season runs from April 1st through May 31st.

The specific dates of each hunting season are set by the Massachusetts Department of Fish and Wildlife. You can find a complete list of hunting seasons on the department’s website.

Regulations for Hunting in Massachusetts

In order to hunt in Massachusetts, you must have a valid hunting license. Licenses are available for purchase online or at any Massachusetts Department of Fish and Wildlife office.

The cost of a hunting license varies depending on the type of license you purchase. A resident hunting license costs $30, while a nonresident hunting license costs $150.

In addition to a hunting license, you may also need to purchase a permit for certain species of animals. For example, a permit is required to hunt deer, bear, and turkey. Permits are available for purchase online or at any Massachusetts Department of Fish and Wildlife office.

The Massachusetts Department of Fish and Wildlife also has a number of regulations in place to protect wildlife and ensure the safety of hunters. These regulations include:

• Bag limits: The number of animals that you can legally kill during a hunting season is limited.
• Hunting methods: Certain hunting methods, such as baiting and trapping, are prohibited.
• Safety precautions: Hunters are required to wear blaze orange clothing and to follow other safety precautions.

You can find a complete list of hunting regulations on the Massachusetts Department of Fish and Wildlife website.

Where to Hunt in Massachusetts

There are a number of places to hunt in Massachusetts, including state-owned hunting areas, private hunting land, and public hunting land.

• State-owned hunting areas: The Massachusetts Department of Fish and Wildlife manages a number of state-owned hunting areas. These areas are open to the public for hunting, and they offer a variety of hunting opportunities.
• Private hunting land: You can also hunt on private hunting land. If you are not a landowner, you will need to get permission from the landowner before you can hunt on their property.
• Public hunting land: There are also a number of public hunting areas in Massachusetts. These areas are open to the public for hunting, and they offer a variety of hunting opportunities.

You can find a list of state-owned hunting areas, private hunting land, and public hunting land on the Massachusetts Department of Fish and Wildlife website.

Hunting is a popular activity in Massachusetts, and there are a number of opportunities to hunt a variety of species of animals. However, it is important to be aware of the hunting regulations and to follow all safety precautions. By doing so, you can enjoy a safe and successful hunting season.

When is hunting season in Massachusetts?

General hunting season:

• Small game: November 15 – February 28
• Big game: November 15 – December 31
• Waterfowl: September 1 – December 31

Specific dates and regulations vary by species and location. Please check the [Massachusetts Fish and Wildlife website](https://www.mass.gov/service-details/hunting-and-trapping-seasons) for more information.

What do I need to get a hunting license in Massachusetts?

You must have a valid Massachusetts hunting license to hunt in the state. Licenses are available online or at any Massachusetts Fish and Wildlife office.

What types of licenses are available?

There are several different types of hunting licenses available in Massachusetts, each with its own set of requirements. The most common types of licenses are:

• Resident hunting license: This license is valid for Massachusetts residents who are at least 16 years old.
• Nonresident hunting license: This license is valid for non-Massachusetts residents who are at least 16 years old.
• Senior hunting license: This license is valid for Massachusetts residents who are 65 years old or older.
• Disabled hunting license: This license is valid for Massachusetts residents who have a permanent disability that prevents them from hunting without assistance.

How much does a hunting license cost?

The cost of a hunting license varies depending on the type of license and the applicant’s age. The following table provides a general overview of the costs:

| Type of License | Resident | Nonresident | Senior | Disabled |
|—|—|—|—|—|
| Resident hunting license | $25 | $100 | $10 | $5 |
| Nonresident hunting license | $100 | $250 | $25 | $10 |
| Senior hunting license | $10 | $50 | $5 | $2 |
| Disabled hunting license | $5 | $25 | $2 | $1 |

Where can I buy a hunting license?

Hunting licenses are available online or at any Massachusetts Fish and Wildlife office. You can also purchase a license from a licensed hunting and fishing dealer.

What are the hunting regulations in Massachusetts?

The Massachusetts Fish and Wildlife Department has a comprehensive set of hunting regulations that all hunters must follow. These regulations cover everything from what species you can hunt to when and where you can hunt. You can find the full set of regulations on the [Massachusetts Fish and Wildlife website](https://www.mass.gov/service-details/hunting-and-trapping-seasons).

What are some common hunting mistakes that people make in Massachusetts?

Here are a few common hunting mistakes that people make in Massachusetts:

• Hunting without a license: This is a serious offense that can result in fines and even jail time.
• Hunting out of season: Each species of game has its own specific hunting season. Make sure you know the dates and regulations for the species you are hunting.
• Hunting in the wrong area: There are many different hunting zones in Massachusetts, each with its own set of regulations. Make sure you know where you are allowed to hunt.
• Using the wrong equipment: Each species of game requires different equipment. Make sure you have the right gear for the species you are hunting.

How can I learn more about hunting in Massachusetts?

The Massachusetts Fish and Wildlife Department is a great resource for information about hunting in the state. You can find a wealth of information on their website, including hunting regulations, tips and techniques, and upcoming events. You can also contact the department directly with any questions you have.

the hunting seasons in Massachusetts vary depending on the species of animal and the location in the state. It is important to be aware of the specific regulations for the area where you plan to hunt. By following these guidelines, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable hunting experience.