On the Hunt: Hunting Season in Western Maine

When the wind carries a new chill, and the leaves start to turn, sportsmen everywhere come to life. Hunting can be a year-round activity, but autumn is the peak season for game, and Maine offers some of the best hunting experiences in the United States. With over 17 million acres of dense forests, flowing rivers, and serene lakes, this rugged terrain is a hunter’s paradise. From waterfowl to black bears, white-tailed deer, to the coveted Moose, Maine is teeming with game that would tempt any hunter. Here are some of our tips to make the most of Maine’s hunting season.

Popular Game Species

The vast expanse of wilderness is the ideal environment for game animals to thrive. This makes Western Maine the ideal destination for novice and seasoned hunters alike. There are ample opportunities to hunt various games throughout the year. Knowing what to hunt, and when, is vital to preserving the environment for years to come. Here is a list of game animals and hunting seasons in Maine.

White-tailed Deer 

When people think about hunting, deer is the first animal that comes to mind. The dense forests and agricultural areas provide excellent feeding (and breeding) grounds. This sought after species can be hunted by bow or rifle, depending on the season. Here’s a breakdown of deer hunting seasons in Maine:

• Archery Season: Early September - November
• Regular Firearm Season: Early November - Late November
• Muzzleloader Season: Late November
  

Black Bear 

Maine has one of the highest black bear populations in the country. Bear hunting is a popular activity, especially in the northern and western parts of the state. Bear hunting is divided into baiting, hunting over bait, and still hunting. Usually, the early season focuses on baited hunting, while the late season focuses on their natural feeding patterns as they prepare for winter. Bear hunting season is late August - November.

Moose 

Maine’s moose population is the highest in the lower 48 states, which makes Maine one of the best places to bag this coveted prize. However, not everyone can hunt this majestic creature. Due to high demand, moose permits are distributed by lottery. Even within Maine, only 20 of the 29 Wildlife Management Districts (WMD) allow moose hunting. 

If you are one of the lucky few to win a permit, you will be assigned a region, date range, and type of moose to hunt. Moose hunting season generally falls in September, October, and November, but exact dates will vary by WMD.

Small Game 

If you want a real challenge, why not try for small game? Often overlooked (literally and figuratively) species like ruffed grouse, woodcock, and snowshoe hare are abundant in the region's forests. Unlike other game, the seasons for small game hunting extend well into winter, making it ideal for hunters looking for sport outside of autumn. 

The hunting seasons for small game overlap in the following months.

• Ruffed Grouse and Woodcock: Early September - Late January
• Snowshoe Hare: Early September - Late March

Turkey and Waterfowl 

If you are looking for a feast, you can’t go wrong with bagging some birds. The vast forests and The many lakes and rivers in Western Maine attract a variety of fowl, ready for the taking. Land and waterfowl do have different hunting seasons, though there is some overlap. They are as follows.

• Fall Turkey Hunting Season: Late September - Early November 
• Spring Turkey Hunting Season: Early May - Early June
• Duck and Goose Season: Early October - Mid-January
  

Essential Hunting Tips

Seasoned hunters will likely be familiar with all the ins and outs of hunting in Maine. However, for those new to the state, or new to the sport, there are some things you’ll need to know. From permits and bag limits to weather and safety, here are some tips for your hunting trip:

Know the Regulations

Ensure you are familiar with Maine’s hunting regulations, including season dates, bag limits, and required licenses. If you have any questions about when, where, and how you can hunt, the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife website is a valuable resource.

Prepare for the Terrain

The untouched wilderness of Western Maine’s terrain makes it great for wildlife, but it can be challenging for humans. It’s important to prepare for a rugged adventure. Pack and wear appropriate clothing and footwear for rough weather including rain and snow. Also, consider using satellite GPS or a map to navigate the remote hunting and camping grounds.

Practice Safety 

Hunting is a great way to get out into nature to relax and unwind. Always prioritize safety by following proper firearm handling procedures, wearing hunter orange, and letting someone know your hunting plans. To keep up to date on the latest safety procedures, you can take the Official Maine Hunter Safety Course online. 

Remember, Many of the best hunting spots are isolated, which means that you will be far from help if an accident were to happen. Stay up to date on basic first aid, and make sure you know where you can go for help if the need arises.

Respect the Land

Healthy animal populations require a healthy environment. If you hope to enjoy the thrill of the hunt for years to come, you have to be a good steward of the land.  Adhere to “Leave No Trace” principles whether you are hunting, hiking, or camping in Maine. This will ensure our beautiful wilderness remains wild and free.

Planning Your Hunt

A hunting expedition requires some serious planning. At the very least, you have to consider what you’re hunting, what you are using to hunt, where you’ll be going, and how long you’ll be away. Nothing is worse, or more dangerous than being caught in the woods unprepared. Here are some tips to ensure a successful hunting trip:

Before You Go

First things first, you need to know where you are going. Different regions have different hunting seasons, permit requirements, and terrain, so researching where to go is vital. Scouting specific sites beforehand can also save you valuable time. Once you know where you’re going, you can pack your hunting supplies according to that region’s specific requirements.

Setup Your Basecamp 

Setting up your base camp before you go on the prowl is vital for a successful hunt. Your base camp should be a safe place to rest and store your extra gear. Above all, your base camp should provide you and your equipment adequate shelter from the elements. If you are looking for a rustic experience, you can camp out in the open. However, if you are worried about the unpredictable fall weather or the safety of your equipment, camping cabins are another great option. Coos Canyon Campground & Cabins offers year-round cabins that work great for a base camp when hunting in the Western Maine region.

Local Resources 

Engaging with local hunting clubs or forums can provide valuable insights and tips about the best hunting spots and techniques specific to Western Maine. This can be especially helpful if you are new to the area, or trying for a new type of game. If nothing else, you may make a few buddies to share the hunt with.

Hunt at Coos Canyon Campground and Cabins

If you're hunting for the perfect campground for this year’s hunt, look no further than Coos Canyon. Located along the Swift River in Byron, Maine, our pristine land offers all the best of Western Maine’s natural beauty. 

With 250 miles of trails for hiking, biking, ATVs, and snowmobiling there’s no shortage of things to enjoy any time of year.



Camp at one of our many rustic tent sites under the stars or bring your own RV and stay in one of our RV sites with sewer, water and electric. Don’t have an RV, no worries,; book one of our Camper Cabins or bunkhouse rental RV. They are all available May - October. For all of the luxuries of home and any time of the year, rent one of our duplex cabins that are open year-round

Plan your hunting trip at Coos Canyon campground and cabins today. Book now!