The Maine deer hunting seasons are fast approaching. Take advantage of record high permit numbers and apply for your any deer permit today.
Deer numbers in Maine are high in 2020, particularly in southern and central Maine where deer are as numerous now as they’ve ever been during the past decade. With roughly 110,000 any deer permits recommended for 2020, hunters will have ample opportunities to fill their freezers with venison and enjoy one of Maine’s five regulated deer hunting seasons. Our first deer hunting season kicks off with the expanded archery season opener on September 12, so now is the time to start scouting and for preparatory work for the 2020 seasons.
Here are a few tips and considerations for this year’s deer hunt:
- To ensure you make the most of your opportunities and make a quick, clean kill, it’s important to practice early and often with your weapon. Try different shooting distances, angles, and wearing the same clothing you’ll wear when hunting.
- The best way to up your odds is to know the deer in your hunting area. Spend time scouting for deer sign and getting to know the land and what’s on it. Look for trails, bedding areas, and preferred food sources. Sometimes talking to other locals or your local registration station may yield valuable intel on deer in the area.
- Maine’s Wildlife Management Areas offer wonderful hunting opportunity! Find one in your neck of the woods.
- Maine is fortunate to have landowners who offer access to their private property to hunt. Read more about exploring private land in Maine and remember, ALWAYS ask for permission.
Don’t forget to apply for your any deer permit:
Apply online. Applications must be completed online by 11:59 pm on August 17, 2020. It is free to apply for the any-deer permit lottery. A chance drawing will be held on September 11, 2020 and results will be posted on the Department’s website.
Decide which Wildlife Management Districts (WMD) you would like to apply for by viewing the Wildlife Management District Map or Wildlife Management Districts by Town. Learn more about the any-deer permit lottery.
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