Massachusetts Hunting Seasons, 2023-2024
Massachusetts is a small state known for big hunting — think white tailed deer and bear. If Massachusetts is the hunting spot for you, know that hunting tags and permits can now be purchased online for both resident and out-of-state hunters. This allows you to print permits from home before heading out into the woods.
The appeal of Massachusetts hunting is more than just the sport. The ability to enjoy some iconic places of American history gives great added benefit to hunting Massachusetts.
Massachusetts Deer Seasons
| Shotgun | Nov. 28-Dec. 10 |
| Primitive Firearms | Dec. 11-30 |
| Youth Hunt | Sept. 30 |
| Paraplegic Hunt | Nov. 2-4 |
| Archery | Zones 1-9: Oct. 16-Nov. 25 Zones 10-14: Oct. 2-Nov. 25 |
**Season dates vary by zone
Massachusetts Bear Seasons
| General Season | Sept. 5-23 Nov. 6-25 Nov. 27-Dec. 9 |
Massachusetts Wild Turkey Seasons
| Fall General Season | Zones 1-9: Oct. 16-Nov. 25 Zones 10-13: Oct. 2-Nov. 25 |
| Spring General Season | TBD |
| Spring Youth Hunt | TBD |
**Massachusetts uses hunting zones for turkey harvests. Season start dates vary by location. Visit the Massachusetts Department of Fish and Game website for specific dates based on your region.
Massachusetts Small Game Seasons
| Cottontail Rabbit | Oct. 14-Feb. 29** |
| Snowshoe Hare | Oct. 14-Feb. 29** |
| Gray Squirrel | Sept. 5-Jan. 1** |
| Crow | July 1-April 10 |
| Pheasant | Oct. 14-Dec. 30 |
| Quail | Oct. 14-Dec. 30 |
| Ruffled Grouse | Oct. 14-Nov. 25 |
**Season dates vary by zone. To ensure you have a legal hunt, visit the Massachusetts Department of Fish and Game website.