Maryland’s highly anticipated two-week firearms hunting season for sika and white-tailed deer begins Saturday, Nov. 30, and continues through Saturday, Dec. 14, offering hunters a chance to contribute to population management while enjoying the outdoors.
The season includes Sunday hunting in all counties except three, providing expanded weekend opportunities for participants. This annual tradition remains a favorite among Maryland hunters.
“The two-week firearms season remains one of Maryland’s most popular hunts,” said Maryland Department of Natural Resources Wildlife and Heritage Service Director Karina Stonesifer. “The season occurs when temperatures are often cooler and provides hunters the opportunity to spend time with friends and family enjoying the outdoors. For thousands of Marylanders, venison provides high-protein meals with a low carbon footprint. And the firearms season is also essential for managing the state’s abundant deer population.”
Regulations and Bag Limits
Detailed information on bag limits, antlerless season dates, and other regulations is available in the 2024-2025 Maryland Guide to Hunting and Trapping. Hunters targeting sika deer must purchase a sika hunting stamp, which can be obtained through the Department of Natural Resources’ online licensing website, licensed agents, or by calling 866-344-8889.
An antler-point restriction remains in effect. Hunters may harvest one antlered white-tailed deer annually without meeting the three-points-per-antler requirement. However, additional antlered deer must meet the minimum point restriction. Junior hunters and apprentice license holders under 16 years old are exempt from this rule.
Chronic Wasting Disease Management Area
Hunters should be aware of expanded Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) management areas, which now include all of Allegany, Baltimore, Carroll, Frederick, Montgomery, and Washington counties. Transportation of whole deer carcasses or certain parts outside this area is restricted unless specific exceptions are met. Though research indicates CWD is not naturally transmissible to humans, hunters are advised to avoid consuming meat from sick animals or specific parts like the brain, spinal column, or lymph nodes.
Safety Measures for Hunters
Maryland law requires deer hunters and their companions to wear daylight fluorescent orange or pink during firearms season. Options include a solid fluorescent cap, a vest or jacket with at least 250 square inches of visible fluorescent fabric, or camouflage outerwear with at least 50% fluorescent color.
For tree stand users, safety precautions include inspecting stands before use and wearing a full-body safety harness while climbing and hunting. The use of a prusik knot attached to a secured line is recommended for added safety when ascending or descending.
Encouraging Deer Donations
Hunters are encouraged to donate harvested deer to help others. Maryland offers a state tax credit for donated deer, and additional programs may be available locally. Hunters should consult their processors for participation options.
The two-week firearms season is a cherished time for Maryland hunters, blending outdoor recreation with responsible wildlife management.
