Maryland’s first segment of the 2024-25 muzzleloader deer season will open statewide from October 17-19, with additional opportunities in specific regions later in the month. This season provides hunters with an early chance to participate in the state’s deer hunting season while taking advantage of the cooler fall weather and increased deer activity.
“The October muzzleloader season is a great opportunity to get outdoors and enjoy the state’s abundant natural resources,” said Karina Stonesifer, Director of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Wildlife and Heritage Service. “The season normally coincides with increased deer activity, and the cooler fall weather makes it an enjoyable time to hunt.”
Region B Extended Season
In Region B, which encompasses Maryland’s central, southern, and eastern regions, hunters will have additional opportunities to hunt antlerless deer from October 21-26. This extended period is antlerless-only, giving hunters in these areas an added timeframe to meet their hunting goals while managing deer populations.
Bag Limits and Restrictions
For the 2024-25 hunting season, the statewide bag limit for white-tailed bucks is two deer. However, hunters in Region B may take an additional bonus buck after purchasing a Bonus Antlered Deer Stamp, which cannot be used during the early muzzleloader season.
The bag limits for antlerless deer vary by management region, allowing hunters to harvest a number of deer suited to the specific wildlife goals of each area.
Additionally, Maryland enforces an antler-point restriction. Hunters are allowed to harvest one antlered white-tailed deer without meeting the requirement of three points on one antler. Any additional antlered deer harvested must meet the minimum point restriction. Licensed junior hunters and apprentice license holders, ages 16 and under, are exempt from this restriction, allowing younger and beginner hunters more flexibility.
Sika Deer Opportunities
Maryland hunters also have the chance to hunt sika deer during the early muzzleloader season, which runs from October 17-19. An antlerless-only sika deer season follows from October 21-26.
Sika deer, a non-native species introduced to the area, are particularly abundant in Dorchester County and surrounding areas, offering a unique opportunity for hunters. The sika deer muzzleloader season allows hunters to harvest up to three deer, with no more than one being antlered. An antlered sika is defined as a deer with at least one antler visible above the hairline.
Sika deer hunters must purchase a sika hunting stamp in addition to a muzzleloader stamp. These stamps can be obtained online, through licensed agents, or by calling the DNR Licensing and Registration Services.
Safety and Conservation Encouragements
As always, hunters are reminded to prioritize safety. The DNR recommends inspecting tree stands thoroughly before use and always wearing a full-body safety harness while in the stand and during the climb in or out. Hunters are encouraged to use a prusik knot attached to a secure line to ensure they are safely tethered to the tree from the moment they leave the ground.
In addition to practicing safety, hunters are encouraged to contribute to conservation efforts by donating deer harvested during the season. Maryland offers a state tax credit for donated deer, and other local programs may also be available. Hunters should check with local processors for additional details.
For more information on season dates, bag limits, and regulations, hunters can refer to the Maryland Guide to Hunting and Trapping.
