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Hunting season is here in Mass. Be careful if you walk or bike in these areas.
The state recommends non-hunters wear a blaze orange hat or vest and know when and where hunting is permitted.
Shotgun deer hunting season season has begun in Massachusetts.
Hunting is allowed on MassWildlife lands and some federal, state, municipal, and private lands.
For non-hunters in these areas, the Massachusetts Department of Wildlife and Fisheries recommends wearing a blaze orange hat and/or vest, especially during peak times — early morning and late afternoon — and avoid wearing earth-toned or animal-colored clothing.
“Hunting is a safe activity for both hunters and non-hunters. These areas remain safe, but wearing blaze orange — and putting it on pets — helps everyone stay visible,” a MassWildlife spokesperson told Boston.com.
Non-hunters should also keep pets leashed and visible, make their presence known to nearby hunters, and know when and where hunting is allowed, the state recommends.
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“We recommend those wanting to avoid being out when hunting is busiest to plan their walk or hike for a different time of day, or choose a nearby spot with lighter hunting activity,” MassWildlife said.
Shotgun deer hunting runs through Dec. 13, after which hunters can hunt with “primitive firearms” from Dec. 15-31. State law explicitly prohibits hunting on Sundays.
For more safety tips for non-hunters, visit Mass.gov.
Where hunting is permitted
MassWildlife lands, including Wildlife Management Areas and Wildlife Conservation Easements, are open for hunting, fishing, trapping, and all outdoor recreational activities.
At state parks, forests, and DCR watershed properties, hunting is generally allowed from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset, but the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries recommends checking with the individual property for any specific regulations before hunting.
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For municipal lands, the town determines whether or not hunting is allowed and specific rules for hunting, including permits and designated areas.
For federal lands, hunting is allowed on five of the state’s National Wildlife Refuges and most require a refuge-issued permit in addition to a hunting license.
On private land, the state recommends receiving written permission from the landowner, although it may not be required by the town.
Hunters can also apply to participate in a controlled public hunt for deer at Quabbin Reservation, Blue Hills Reservation, and for general hunting at Wachusett Reservoir and Camp Edwards.
For more information on where to hunt, visit Mass.gov. For hunting season dates and bag limits, see this chart.
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