Deer Hunting Laws and Rules in Maine

If you live in Maine, you should be aware of all the rules and regulations concerning deer hunting before you head out. Hunting deer is perfectly legal in the state, but there are some restrictions, especially for which type of deer you hunt, which weapons you hunt them with, and where you hunt them. Being aware of these laws can not only protect you as you hunt and afterward, but also keep you and those who are with you safe.

Also ensure that you have the correct permits. There are many different kinds of permits, especially depending on your hunting location, which season it is, how many deer you aim to take, and which tools you plan on using to hunt. There are muzzleloader permits, expanded archery permits, and permits to take more than one deer.

Deer Hunting Prohibitions

When it comes to the deer themselves, hunting of antlerless deer (deers that have no antlers, or have antlers that are less than three inches in length) is prohibited except by special permit. This applies in both the firearms season and the muzzleloader season. There may be certain areas where no any-deer permits are issued, and in these locations, archers and junior hunters are also not allowed to harvest antlerless deer.

Be aware of exactly what season it currently is, as well—there’s a difference between firearms season and other seasons. During archery season, multiple deer may be taken. However, during any of the other remaining seasons, only one may be taken, unless you have a valid bonus or superpack antlerless deer permit.

Restrictions on Tools, Weapons, or Means

It’s prohibited to bait deer by placing grain, fruit, nuts, salt, or other foods from June 1 to December 15. Deer may also not be hunted with the use of artificial lights, dogs, snares, traps, or set guns. You may also not use any firearm that utilizes .17 or .22 caliber rimfire cartridges. Any deer decoys, however, are legal.

Restrictions on Location

Certain areas, such as Mt. Desert Island, Cross and Scotch Island, and Isle au Haut are completely closed to deer hunting. Some areas are open to deer hunting, but with special restrictions, such as Cranberry Isles, which is open to bow and arrow hunting only during the archer and firearm season, and the island of Frenchboro, which is open to deer hunting only with shotguns and only during the firearms season. Before you head out, look into your planned location to see what they currently allow and during which season. Many towns only allow deer hunting with shotguns during firearms season.

Conclusion

When you set out to hunt deer in Maine, the most important things to keep in mind are what season it is, and what’s allowed in the specific location you’ll be hunting in. Always ensure that you get the correct permits, and never take more than one deer unless you have a permit to do so. By following these laws and rules, you can stay safe and operate efficiently during deer hunting in Maine.