Photo by Michael Dwyer, submitted to the 2023 Maryland DNR Photo Contest
Dreams of hunting big game can begin small – in Maryland, squirrel, rabbit, fall turkey, and other small game seasons are either underway or set to open in the coming weeks. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources invites hunters of all experience levels to explore these species, which are abundant throughout the state and offer generous seasons and bag limits.
“Pursuing small game is a great way to introduce new hunters to the sport and develop woodsmanship skills that will help in all types of hunting,” Wildlife and Heritage Service Director Karina Stonesifer said. “It’s also a great way to enjoy the beautiful fall weather afield in between the big game seasons.”
Squirrel season opened September 5 with a bag limit of six per day (The Delmarva fox squirrel is not included in this season; this subspecies remains protected to ensure continued population recovery). Scouting for mast-producing trees, such as oaks and hickories, will help squirrel hunters locate productive hunting areas.
Rabbit season begins on Saturday, November 7 with a bag limit of four per day. Hunting brushy, weedy field edges and hedgerows can provide excellent opportunities. Both rabbit and squirrel seasons are open until February 28.
For hunters in Garrett, Allegany, and Washington counties, the fall turkey hunting season will open on Saturday, October 31 and continue through November 8 with a bag limit of one turkey per hunter. Turkey populations are healthy in the western region, but below-average reproduction may limit the flock sizes encountered this fall.
Bird hunters should note that the bobwhite quail season remains closed on public lands east of the Susquehanna River and Chesapeake Bay.
Complete hunting regulations, check-in procedures and information on public land hunting can be found in the Guide to Hunting and Trapping in Maryland.
Hunting licenses, stamps, permits and other products are available online at, MD Outdoors, including a new free mobile app. Licenses and stamps may be also be purchased at a licensing agent, or by calling the department’s Licensing and Registration Service at 866-344-8889.
