Maryland’s 2024 Junior Deer Hunt will take place on November 16 and will extend to designated areas on November 17, inviting young hunters to engage in this time-honored tradition. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) encourages experienced hunters to mentor young enthusiasts and introduce them to the experience of hunting in Maryland’s varied landscapes.
The Junior Deer Hunt is open on private and specified public lands across all counties on November 16. An additional hunting day on November 17 will be available on private lands in all counties except Baltimore, Howard, and Prince George’s. Junior hunters in Allegany, Cecil, Garrett, Somerset, St. Mary’s, Washington, Wicomico, and Worcester counties will also be permitted to hunt on designated public lands on November 17.
“The Junior Deer Hunt is an excellent time for young hunters to experience the thrill of deer hunting,” stated Karina Stonesifer, Director of the Wildlife and Heritage Service. “The season coincides with peak deer activity during the rut and pleasant fall weather.”
Eligibility and Mentorship Requirements
Young hunters, defined as those aged 16 and under, must possess a valid Maryland hunting license to participate. They may use air guns or firearms compliant with state regulations to hunt both sika and white-tailed deer. Each junior hunter must be accompanied by an adult mentor, at least 21 years old and licensed in Maryland. The adult mentor is restricted from possessing a hunting device while guiding the junior hunter, focusing solely on supervision and mentorship.
All other hunters participating in different open seasons, including archery and small game hunters, are required to wear blaze orange or pink for safety on these junior hunt dates.
Bag Limits and Special Exemptions
Bag limits for junior hunters vary by region:
- Region A: Hunters may take one white-tailed deer, either antlered or antlerless.
- Region B: Hunters may take up to three white-tailed deer, limited to one antlered deer.
- Sika Deer: One sika deer may be taken, either antlered or antlerless.
Deer taken by junior hunters during these designated days do not count toward the regular season bag limits for archery, firearm, or muzzleloader hunts. Junior hunters are also exempt from the state’s antler point restrictions.
Sika Deer Hunting Stamp Requirement
For those interested in hunting sika deer, a special hunting stamp is required and can be purchased through the Maryland DNR’s online system, at licensing agents, or by contacting the DNR License and Registration Services at 866-344-8889. According to DNR guidelines, an antlered sika deer is defined as a deer with at least one antler visible above the hairline.
Emphasis on Tree Stand Safety
The Maryland DNR highlights tree stand safety and advises hunters to inspect tree stands thoroughly before use. Hunters are encouraged to wear a full-body safety harness when climbing in or out of stands. Additionally, the DNR recommends using a prusik knot to attach a tether line secured above the stand, ensuring the hunter is safely anchored from the moment they leave the ground.
Donation Programs and Tax Incentives
Hunters are encouraged to consider donating harvested deer to food programs in Maryland, an effort that can provide food to local communities and qualify for a state tax credit. Other local and state initiatives may be available, and hunters are encouraged to contact their deer processors to explore these options.
Full details on season dates, bag limits, regulations, and registration are provided in the Maryland Guide to Hunting and Trapping.
