Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife





*mefishwildlife.com*






Don't wait for fall to go hunting...
two people hunting in winter

Targeting a new species is an exciting challenge to learn something new, an opportunity to spend more time outside, improve your hunting skills, create memories with friends and family, and to secure delicious table fare.

Here are a few winter hunting opportunities to try:

gray squirrel perched on stump with snow on ground and brown leaves
Gray squirrel - "Extended season! "

With an abundance of oak trees and other food sources, particularly in southern and central parts of the state, gray squirrels are flourishing in Maine. Gray squirrel hunting is great for youth and new hunters because it builds confidence and a strong foundation of hunting skills, has a relatively low barrier to entry regarding necessary equipment, and can provide a delicious meal that is easy to prepare (e.g., shake and bake squirrel). The season also provides seasoned hunters with extended hunting opportunity. 

MDIFW recently extended the gray squirrel hunting season throughout the month of January, providing hunters more time and opportunity to hunt outside of the popular big game seasons and to help maintain healthy gray squirrel populations. 

"Gray squirrel hunting season is September 27, 2025 - January 31, 2026"



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snowshoe hare
Snowshoe hare 

One of the enjoyable aspects of hunting in the winter is the ability to easily see fresh animal tracks in the snow! Grab a pair of snowshoes and hire a guide [ [link removed] ], who may have a trained dog, for an enjoyable winter hunt, or try to find hare located in brushy areas and softwoods stands.

"Snowshoe hare season is September 27, 2025 - March 31, 2026 in all Wildlife Management Districts with the exception of Vinalhaven Island, Knox County which has a season end date of February 28, 2026.

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bobcat
Predators

Maine predator seasons are long providing hunters ample opportunity. Calling is a popular tactic for luring in wary predators. Many seek the help from a registered Maine guide where bobcats are typically hunted using hounds.

Season Dates:

*Bobcat:* December 1, 2025 - February 21, 2026
*Fox:* October 20, 2025 - February 28, 2026
*Coyote Night Hunt:* December 16, 2025 - August 31, 2026
*Coyote Day Hunt:* Year round



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porcupine in winter
Other species

Other small mammals such as porcupine and red squirrel are abundant in Maine and can be hunted year round. This offers yet another opportunity to expand your tracking and hunting skills.

Like hares, squirrels are a common small game animal and are a good choice for beginner hunters looking for a challenge. Porcupine, underneath all the quills can taste similar to rabbit, venison, or pork.



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shed deer antler in the snow
Shed hunting

This may not be the "hunting" we normally talk about, but shed hunting is a great way for hunters to stay active, learn how deer and moose habits change throughout the year, and scout for upcoming seasons. Did we mention it is also an excellent workout?

 



*Plan your Hunt* [ [link removed] ]


*Purchase your 2026 Hunting License Online* [ [link removed] ]






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More information

Purchase a hunting license or permit online [ [link removed] ]
Plan your hunt [ [link removed] ]
Find a place to hunt [ [link removed] ]
Search Maine's hunting laws [ [link removed] ]
Exploring the outdoors on private land [ [link removed] ]
Hunting with lead-free ammunition [ [link removed] ]








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This email was sent to [email protected] using GovDelivery Communications Cloud on behalf of: Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife ·41 State House Station · Augusta, ME 04333-0041 · (207) 287-8000 GovDelivery logo [ [link removed] ]