The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has officially announced the state’s 2024-2025 migratory game bird hunting seasons, with the first opportunities beginning on September 2. Detailed information on bag limits, season dates, and shooting hours is available in the 2024-2025 Maryland Guide to Hunting and Trapping.
“September marks the beginning of the fall hunting season, and Maryland hunters have been waiting with a high degree of anticipation,” said Karina Stonesifer, the Wildlife and Heritage Director. She emphasized the abundance of public hunting opportunities in Maryland and the state’s diverse landscape, which offers a variety of options for both new and experienced hunters. Stonesifer concluded with a wish for a safe and memorable start to the season for all participants.
Season Dates and Regulations
The 2024-2025 migratory bird hunting season in Maryland includes various species with specific season dates and regulations. The seasons are designed to maximize hunting opportunities while ensuring sustainable bird populations.
Dove Season (Split)
- First Season: September 2 – October 19 (Note: Shooting hours are from noon to sunset for this segment)
- Second Season: October 26 – November 29
- Third Season: December 21 – January 10, 2025
Woodcock Season (Split)
- First Season: October 26 – November 29
- Second Season: January 13 – January 29, 2025
Early Resident Canada Goose Season
- Eastern Zone: September 2–14
- Western Zone: September 2–25
During the Early Canada goose season, hunters are permitted to use shotguns capable of holding more than three shells. Additionally, shooting hours for this season are extended to a half-hour before sunrise to a half-hour after sunset.
Teal Season (September)
- Season Dates: September 16–30
- Bag Limit: The daily bag limit for teal is set at six birds.
Licensing and Reporting Requirements
All migratory bird hunters, including those exempt from requiring a license, such as landowners, must purchase a Maryland Migratory Game Bird Stamp/Harvest Information Program (HIP) Permit. Hunters are required to carry the printed receipt for this permit while hunting. Furthermore, waterfowl hunters aged 16 and older must possess a Federal Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp (Federal Duck Stamp), with the receipt printed and available during the hunt.
Licenses, permits, and stamps are available for purchase online, by phone at 855-855-3906, at department service centers, or through any of the 250 authorized sport license agents across Maryland.
Hunters are also encouraged to contribute to conservation efforts by reporting banded migratory game birds online. Upon reporting, hunters will receive a certificate of appreciation that includes all known biological information about the bird they harvested.
Maryland’s Waterfowl Hunting Zones
For those interested in waterfowl hunting, Maryland’s various hunting zones are delineated on the DNR website, providing a resource for hunters to plan their activities according to the zones’ specific regulations.
