Massachusetts Hunting Seasons & Licensing: What You Need To Know

Massachusetts is a small state known for big hunting — think white tailed deer and bear. If Massachusetts is the hunting spot for you, know that hunting tags and permits can now be purchased online for both resident and out-of-state hunters. This allows you to print permits from home before heading out into the woods.

The appeal of Massachusetts hunting is more than just the sport. The ability to enjoy some iconic places of American history gives great added benefit to hunting Massachusetts.

Hunting In Massachusetts

There are many reasons why Massachusetts is a great state for hunters. The state has a long tradition of hunting, and it offers some of the best hunting opportunities in the country. The climate is ideal for hunting, and the state has a variety of wildlife species that make it an exciting place to hunt.

The state offers a variety of hunting opportunities, from big game to small game. Hunters can find deer, moose, bear, turkey, and other game in the state. The state also has a variety of public and private land available for hunting.

The climate in Massachusetts is ideal for hunting. The winters are cold enough to keep the animals active, but not so cold that they are difficult to find. The summers are cool and the vegetation is lush, providing abundant food for the animals.

The state has a variety of wildlife species that make it an exciting place to hunt. Hunters can find deer, moose, bear, turkey, and other game in the state. The state also has a variety of public and private land available for hunting.

Massachusetts is a great state for hunters because it offers a variety of hunting opportunities, has ideal hunting weather, and has a variety of wildlife species. Hunters can find the perfect place to hunt in Massachusetts.

Massachusetts Deer Seasons

Shotgun	Nov. 29-Dec. 11
Primitive Firearms	Dec. 13-31
Youth Hunt	Oct. 2
Paraplegic Hunt	Oct. 28-30

**Season dates vary by zone

Massachusetts Bear Seasons

General Season

Sept. 7-25, Nov. 1-20 and Nov. 29-Dec. 11

Massachusetts Wild Turkey Seasons

Fall General Season	Oct. 4-Nov. 28**
Spring General Season	Apr. 26-May 22
Spring Youth Hunt	Apr. 24

**Massachusetts uses hunting zones for turkey harvests. Season start dates vary by location. Visit the Masschusetts Department of Fish and Game website for specific dates based on your region.

Massachusetts Small Game Seasons

Cottontail Rabbit	Oct. 16-Feb. 28**
Snowshoe Hare	Oct. 16-Feb. 28**
Gray Squirrel	Sept. 13-Jan. 1**
Crow	July 1-Apr. 9
Pheasant	Oct. 16-Nov. 27
Quail	Oct. 16-Nov. 27
Ruffled Grouse	Oct. 16-Nov. 27

How To Get A Hunting License In Massachusetts?

Depending on your age, you may be required to have the Hunter Education Certificate in order to legally buy a license or permit to hunt.

Complete the Massachusetts hunter education certification requirements.
Choose the correct license type.
Buy the license through the Massachusetts Department of Natural Resources website or a Maryland–approved retailer.

Massachusetts License Expiration

All hunting licenses expire at the end of the calendar year.

Where to Buy a Massachusetts Hunting License

Visit the Massachusetts Department of Natural Resources website.
Call (617) 626-1500
Visit the Maryland Department of Natural Resources office or an approved retailer.
Mail in a paper application.

**Season dates vary by zone. To ensure you have a legal hunt, visit the Massachusetts Department of Fish and Game website.