Maryland offers nonresident hunters the opportunity to enjoy its diverse wildlife and scenic landscapes through specialized hunting licenses. A Nonresident Junior Hunting License costs $80 for those under 16 years of age, while a Nonresident 3-Day Waterfowl and Small Game License is available for $65. These licenses allow hunters to pursue various game species within the state’s boundaries.
Nonresident hunters must familiarize themselves with Maryland’s hunting regulations before venturing into the field. The state’s Department of Natural Resources provides comprehensive information on season dates, bag limits, and specific requirements for different game species. Obtaining the proper licenses and permits is crucial for a legal and enjoyable hunting experience in Maryland.
Hunting in Maryland offers nonresidents access to a wide range of game, including deer, waterfowl, and small game. The state’s diverse habitats, from coastal marshes to forested mountains, provide ample opportunities for hunters to test their skills and enjoy the outdoors. By purchasing a nonresident hunting license, visitors contribute to Maryland’s conservation efforts and support wildlife management programs.
Eligibility and Requirements
Maryland has specific criteria for nonresident hunters seeking to obtain a hunting license. These requirements ensure proper education, safety, and fairness in licensing practices.
Nonresident Definition
A nonresident is any person who does not have a primary residence in Maryland. This includes individuals who live in other states or countries. Nonresidents must purchase specific licenses designed for out-of-state hunters.
Temporary residents, such as college students or military personnel stationed in Maryland, may still be considered nonresidents for hunting purposes. The duration of stay does not automatically grant resident status for licensing.
Hunter Education and Safety Requirement
All nonresident hunters born on or after July 1, 1977, must complete a hunter education course before obtaining a Maryland hunting license. This requirement ensures that hunters understand safety protocols and ethical hunting practices.
Maryland accepts hunter education certifications from other states and provinces. Nonresidents can present their out-of-state certification when applying for a Maryland license.
First-time adult hunters can opt for the Apprentice Hunting License. This one-time option allows them to hunt under the supervision of a licensed adult hunter without completing the education course.
Minimum Age for Licensure
There is no minimum age requirement for obtaining a hunting license in Maryland. However, age affects the type of license and supervision needed.
- Junior hunters (under 16 years old) can purchase a Junior Hunting License.
- Hunters aged 16 and older must purchase an adult license.
- Junior hunters must have written permission from a parent or guardian.
- Children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult while hunting.
Resident vs. Nonresident Licenses
Maryland offers different licenses and fees for residents and nonresidents:
- Nonresident Regular Hunting License: More expensive than the resident version.
- Nonresident Junior Hunting License: Available for hunters under 16.
- Short-term options: 3-day licenses for waterfowl and small game hunting.
Nonresidents pay higher fees for most licenses and permits. For example:
- Nonresident Regular Hunting License: $130.00
- Nonresident Junior Hunting License: $80.00
- 3-Day Waterfowl and Small Game License: $65.00
These licenses grant different privileges. The regular license covers all game species, while short-term licenses have restrictions on deer, bear, and turkey hunting.
Types of Nonresident Licenses
Maryland offers several nonresident hunting license options to accommodate hunters from out of state. These licenses vary based on age, experience level, and hunting duration.
Full Season Hunting License
The Nonresident Regular Hunting License in Maryland allows out-of-state hunters to pursue game animals throughout the designated hunting seasons. This license costs $130.00 and is valid from the date of issue until July 31 of the following year. It covers hunting for all legal game species in Maryland, including deer, turkey, and small game.
Hunters must purchase additional stamps for certain species. For example, a deer stamp is required to hunt deer. The Nonresident Regular Hunting License does not include waterfowl hunting privileges. A separate federal duck stamp and Maryland migratory game bird stamp are necessary for waterfowl hunting.
Junior Hunting License
Maryland offers a Nonresident Junior Hunting License for young hunters under 16 years of age. This license costs $80.00 and provides the same hunting privileges as the full season license. Junior hunters must have written permission from a parent or guardian to purchase and use this license.
The junior license is an excellent option for introducing young out-of-state hunters to Maryland’s diverse hunting opportunities. It allows them to hunt all legal game species, including deer and turkey, at a reduced cost compared to the adult license.
Senior Hunting License
Maryland does not offer a specific nonresident senior hunting license. Out-of-state senior hunters must purchase the regular Nonresident Hunting License at the full price of $130.00. This differs from the resident senior license, which offers a significant discount to Maryland residents aged 65 and older.
Senior nonresident hunters enjoy the same privileges as other adult nonresident license holders. They can hunt all legal game species in Maryland, subject to applicable seasons, bag limits, and additional stamp requirements.
Apprentice Hunting License
The Apprentice Hunting License program in Maryland is designed for new hunters of all ages who want to try hunting before completing a hunter education course. This license is available to both residents and nonresidents. Nonresident apprentice hunters pay the same fee as the regular Nonresident Hunting License.
Apprentice license holders must be accompanied by a licensed adult hunter at least 18 years old who has held a Maryland hunting license for three years. The mentor must remain within sight and normal voice contact of the apprentice at all times while hunting.
This license allows new hunters to experience Maryland’s hunting traditions under close supervision. It’s valid for one license year and can be purchased twice in a lifetime before the hunter must complete a hunter education course.
Associated Costs and Stamps
Nonresident hunters in Maryland must purchase various licenses, stamps, and permits to hunt legally. These include a base hunting license and additional stamps for specific game types or hunting methods.
Base License Fees
The Nonresident Regular Hunting License fee is $130.00 for hunters aged 16 to 64. Junior hunters under 16 years old can obtain a Nonresident Junior Hunting License for $65.00 with written permission from a parent or guardian. Senior hunters aged 65 and above may purchase a Nonresident Senior Hunting License for $65.00 in the calendar year they turn 65.
These base licenses allow hunting of most game species in Maryland, but additional stamps or permits may be required for certain types of hunting.
Additional Stamps and Permits
Several stamps and permits are necessary for specific hunting activities. The Archery Stamp and Muzzleloader Stamp cost $25.00 each for nonresidents. Hunters pursuing sika deer must purchase a Sika Deer Stamp for $25.00.
For those seeking additional antlered deer, a Bonus Antlered Deer Stamp is available for $25.00. Migratory game bird hunters need both a Maryland Migratory Game Bird Stamp ($15.00) and a Federal Duck Stamp ($27.00).
Hunters targeting furbearers must obtain a Furbearer Permit. The cost for this permit varies based on the specific animals being hunted.
Legal Game and Seasons
Maryland offers non-resident hunters diverse opportunities to pursue big game, game birds, and furbearers. Each category has specific seasons, bag limits, and regulations to ensure sustainable wildlife management.
Big Game
Non-resident hunters can pursue white-tailed deer and sika deer in Maryland. The deer hunting season typically runs from September to January, with specific dates for archery, muzzleloader, and firearms seasons. Bag limits vary by region and weapon type.
Black bears are also legal game in select western counties. The bear hunting season is usually a short period in October, with a strictly limited number of permits issued through a lottery system.
Hunters must purchase appropriate stamps and permits in addition to their non-resident hunting license for big game species.
Game Birds
Maryland provides opportunities to hunt various game birds, including wild turkey, quail, grouse, and pheasant. Turkey hunting seasons occur in spring and fall, with specific dates and bag limits.
Upland game bird seasons generally run from October to February. Hunters should consult the current regulations for exact dates and daily bag limits for each species.
A Maryland Migratory Game Bird Stamp is required to hunt waterfowl and other migratory birds. Seasons for ducks, geese, and other waterfowl typically span from September to January, following federal guidelines.
Furbearers and Trapping
Non-resident hunters can pursue furbearers such as raccoons, foxes, and coyotes. Most furbearer hunting seasons run from autumn through winter.
Trapping requires a separate non-resident trapping license and furbearer permit. Common trapped species include muskrat, beaver, and nutria.
Trapping seasons generally occur from November to March, with specific dates varying by species and region. Trappers must follow strict regulations regarding trap types, checking intervals, and reporting requirements.
Hunting Regulations
Maryland enforces specific hunting regulations to ensure safety, conservation, and fair practices. These rules cover weapon usage, property access, and harvest reporting requirements for both resident and non-resident hunters.
Weapon Restrictions
Hunters in Maryland must adhere to strict weapon regulations. Firearms are permitted during designated seasons, with specific caliber restrictions for different game species. Shotguns used for deer hunting are limited to slugs or buckshot. For archery seasons, compound bows, crossbows, and traditional bows are allowed, but must meet minimum draw weight requirements. Muzzleloaders are restricted to specific powder types and projectiles.
During firearms season, hunters must wear fluorescent orange or pink clothing for visibility. Loaded firearms are prohibited in vehicles. Suppressors are legal for hunting in Maryland with proper federal documentation.
Property Regulations
Hunting on private property requires written permission from the landowner. Public hunting areas have specific entry and use regulations. Some state-managed lands require permits or reservations.
Hunters must maintain safe distances from buildings and roads. It is illegal to shoot from or across public roads. Trespassing laws are strictly enforced. Baiting regulations vary by region and game species.
Tree stands on public land must be portable and removed daily. Permanent stands are prohibited. Hunters should be aware of property boundaries and respect “No Hunting” signs.
Harvest Reporting
Maryland requires all hunters to report their big game harvests within 24 hours. This can be done online, by phone, or at check stations. The Maryland Big Game Harvest Record must be filled out immediately upon taking a deer or turkey.
Each hunter must obtain a Harvest Information Program (HIP) number annually for migratory bird hunting. This helps track harvest data for conservation efforts. Hunters must tag their harvested game before moving it from the kill site.
Failure to report harvests can result in fines and license suspension. Accurate reporting is crucial for wildlife management and setting future hunting regulations.
Hunting Education and Conservation
Maryland prioritizes hunter education and wildlife conservation to ensure safe, ethical, and sustainable hunting practices. These programs aim to develop knowledgeable hunters and protect natural resources.
Hunter Education Courses
Maryland requires first-time hunters to complete a Hunter Safety Education Program before purchasing a hunting license. This mandatory course, established in 1977, covers firearms safety, hunting ethics, wildlife conservation, and outdoor skills.
The program culminates in earning a Certificate of Competency in Firearms and Hunting Safety. This one-time certification remains valid for future license purchases.
Courses are available in-person and online, catering to different learning preferences. In-person classes offer hands-on experience, while online options provide flexibility for busy schedules.
Conservation Efforts
Maryland’s Department of Natural Resources implements various conservation initiatives to protect wildlife and habitats. These efforts are partially funded by hunting license fees and related permits.
Conservation programs focus on habitat restoration, wildlife population management, and invasive species control. Hunters play a crucial role in these efforts by participating in regulated harvests and reporting wildlife observations.
The state also offers Trapper Education courses, emphasizing humane trapping methods and sustainable fur harvesting. These programs promote responsible wildlife management and help maintain ecological balance.
Additional Resources and Support
Maryland offers various resources to assist non-resident hunters in navigating regulations, accessing hunting areas, and obtaining necessary support. These services aim to enhance the hunting experience for visitors to the state.
DNR Customer Service
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) provides comprehensive customer service for non-resident hunters. Their Compass online licensing system allows easy purchase and management of hunting licenses. For direct assistance, the DNR operates a toll-free hotline at 1-877-620-8DNR.
Hunters can also visit DNR Service Centers across the state for in-person help. These centers offer license sales, regulation information, and local hunting advice.
The DNR website features a dedicated section for non-resident hunters, covering topics like season dates, bag limits, and required permits.
Hunting Maps and Area Guides
Maryland offers detailed hunting maps and area guides to help non-residents locate prime hunting spots. The DNR website provides downloadable PDF maps of public hunting lands, including state forests, wildlife management areas, and public hunting areas.
Interactive online maps allow hunters to explore potential hunting locations, view property boundaries, and identify restricted zones. These maps can be accessed through the DNR’s DNRID system.
Area-specific hunting guides offer valuable information on local game populations, terrain features, and hunting regulations. These guides are available for major hunting regions across Maryland.
Accessibility and Disability Support
Maryland is committed to making hunting accessible to all visitors, including those with disabilities. The Universal Disability Pass provides special accommodations for hunters with mobility impairments.
Modified hunting areas with wheelchair-accessible blinds and trails are available in select locations. The DNR website lists these accessible hunting sites and provides details on their features.
For hunters with visual impairments, the DNR offers hunting regulations and guides in large print and braille formats upon request. Special hunts for disabled hunters are organized throughout the season, providing additional opportunities and support.
Special Circumstances and Exemptions
Maryland offers certain hunting license exemptions and special provisions for specific groups. These include landowners, military personnel, and seniors who meet particular criteria.
Landowners and Sharecroppers
Landowners in Maryland enjoy unique hunting privileges on their own property. Individuals who own a farm of at least 3 acres can hunt without a license on their land during open seasons. This exemption extends to their spouse and children. Tenant farmers and sharecroppers residing on the property also qualify for this benefit.
Notably, nonresident landowners with contiguous property in Maryland and Virginia may hunt on the Maryland portion without a license if their primary residence is on the Virginia side. This privilege applies to their spouse, children, and grandchildren as well.
Military Personnel
Active duty military personnel stationed in Maryland qualify for resident hunting licenses. They must present valid military identification and proof of stationed status. Veterans with a service-connected disability of 60% or more are eligible for discounted hunting licenses.
U.S. Armed Forces members on official leave can hunt without a license during their leave period. They must carry their official leave papers while hunting.
Senior Lifetime Consolidated License
Maryland residents aged 65 and older can purchase a Senior Lifetime Consolidated License. This license covers hunting, fishing, and trapping for life. It includes most stamps and permits required for these activities.
The cost is significantly lower than purchasing individual licenses annually. Seniors must provide proof of age and residency to qualify. This license offers substantial savings for older outdoor enthusiasts who plan to continue hunting and fishing in their retirement years.