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State Guide

Massachusetts Hunting Guide 2026

Complete Massachusetts hunting guide for 2026: seasons, license costs, draw odds, GMU boundaries, bag limits, and regulations. Compare every game species at a glance.

Wildlife Agency

Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife

Official Site

Hunter safety course required for first-time buyers

Massachusetts Hunting Seasons

Whitetail Deer

Res: $27.5 Non-res: $65.5
Season Type Opens Closes
Archery Oct 2 Nov 25
Shotgun Nov 27 Dec 9
Muzzleloader Dec 11 Dec 31

Bag limits: daily: 1, season: 2-3 depending on zone

No centerfire rifles. Shotgun slugs and muzzleloaders only. High deer densities on islands and suburban areas.

Turkey

Res: $27.5 Non-res: $65.5
Season Type Opens Closes
Shotgun Apr 24 May 20
Archery Oct 16 Nov 25

Bag limits: daily: 1, season: 2 (1 spring, 1 fall)

Spring bearded turkey. Fall archery season. Excellent turkey populations statewide. Youth hunt weekend.

Duck/Waterfowl

Res: $27.5 Non-res: $65.5
Season Type Opens Closes
Shotgun Oct 10 Jan 1

Bag limits: daily: 6, season: No season limit

Federal and state waterfowl stamps required. Atlantic Flyway. Coastal waterfowl and sea duck hunting.

Planning Tools

Massachusetts Hunting FAQ

Do I need a hunting license in Massachusetts?
Yes. All hunters in Massachusetts must hold a valid hunting license from the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife. Non-residents typically pay higher fees. A hunter safety course is required for first-time license buyers.
What is the hunting license cost in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts license costs vary by species. Whitetail Deer: resident $27.5, non-resident $65.5. Turkey: resident $27.5, non-resident $65.5.
When is deer season in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts deer seasons: Archery: Oct 2 - Nov 25, Shotgun: Nov 27 - Dec 9, Muzzleloader: Dec 11 - Dec 31.
Does Massachusetts require a hunter safety course?
Yes, Massachusetts requires hunter education certification for all first-time hunters. The course covers firearm safety, hunting laws, wildlife conservation, and ethical hunting practices.
Who manages hunting regulations in Massachusetts?
The Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife manages all hunting licenses, regulations, and wildlife management in Massachusetts. Their website (https://www.mass.gov/orgs/division-of-fisheries-and-wildlife) has current season dates, license purchasing, and regulation booklets.