🦌 Where to Hunt in Maine: Explore 17 Million Acres of Wild Opportunity (2025 Guide)
- Gerry Caron
- Oct 19
- 5 min read
🦌 Where to Hunt in Maine: Explore 17 Million Acres of Wild Opportunity (2025 Guide)
If you’re looking for a truly wild hunting experience, Maine delivers in spades — with over 17 million acres of land open to hunters. From vast North Woods timberlands to rolling Public Reserved Lands and scenic Wildlife Management Areas, hunters can pursue deer, moose, bear, turkey, and more across one of the most diverse and accessible landscapes in the Northeast.
Whether you prefer tracking big game through thick forest or setting up along open ridge lines, knowing where to hunt in Maine — and how to do it responsibly — helps preserve this outdoor heritage for generations to come.
🌲 Hunting on Private Land in Maine
About 94% of Maine’s forest land is privately owned, and over 10 million acres of that land are voluntarily open to the public. This open access is a long-standing Maine tradition — but one that depends on mutual respect between hunters and landowners.
🔸 Implied Permission vs. Common Courtesy
Maine operates under an implied permission system, meaning if land isn’t posted, you may legally use it. However, the unwritten rule is simple
👉 Always ask first.
Getting verbal or written permission shows respect and helps ensure that access remains available for years to come.
When speaking with landowners:
Ask where you may drive or park.
Clarify which species or activities are allowed (e.g., deer hunting but not turkey).
Request permission before placing game cameras or treestands.
Label tree stands with the hunter’s name and address as required.
📜 Note: Written permission is required for game cameras on private land and metallic/ceramic tree stand attachments.
For more info, visit the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife (MDIFW) landowner relations page:
🏞️ Public Land Hunting Opportunities
While most land is privately held, Maine still boasts hundreds of thousands of acres of public access land for hunting — managed to balance recreation, conservation, and wildlife habitat.
✅ Quick Checklist for Choosing Where to Hunt
Step | Why It Matters | Action |
Identify WMD | Regulations change per district | Use MDIFW maps / lawbooks |
Check private or public status | To know access rules | Review land maps, property records |
Seek permission | To maintain access rights | Get signed permission, offer contact |
Understand rules & permits | Ensure legal hunt | Review MDIFW hunting laws Maine |
Monitor health advisories | Safety of consuming game | Check PFAS / contamination zones |
🦆 Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs)
The MDIFW oversees 120,000+ acres across the state for hunting, trapping, and wildlife viewing. Each WMA protects vital habitat while allowing hunters to enjoy a wide range of species and terrain.
Removable treestands and blinds are allowed but require permits if left for more than one day.
Permanent structures are prohibited.
Bear baiting and trapping on WMAs require a permit.
Game cameras may be used without department permission.
Find a WMA near you:
📞 Contact Regional MDIFW Offices for permits or questions:
Region A – Gray: (207) 287-2345
Region B – Sidney: (207) 547-5300
Region C – Jonesboro: (207) 434-5927
Region D – Strong: (207) 778-3324
Region E – Greenville: (207) 695-3756
Region F – Enfield: (207) 732-4132
Region G – Ashland: (207) 435-3231
🌿 Public Reserved Lands
Maine’s Public Reserved Lands cover over 500,000 acres of forest, lakes, and mountains — and nearly all are open to hunting. These areas are managed by the Bureau of Parks and Lands for recreation, timber, and habitat protection.
Learn more about Public Reserved Lands:
🏕️ State Parks
While not all State Parks allow hunting, many do during designated seasons — typically outside of busy recreation months. Always confirm rules about firearms, distance from trails, and timing before you go.
Check hunting availability in State Parks:
📍 Wildlife Management Districts (WMDs)
Maine is divided into 29 Wildlife Management Districts (WMDs), helping biologists tailor hunting seasons and bag limits by region.Before heading out, double-check the WMD where you’ll be hunting — as season dates and limits vary.
Explore the interactive WMD map:
💬 Tips for Being a Good Land User
Respect boundaries and posted signs.
Leave gates as you found them.
Pack out all trash and shell casings.
Report poaching or vandalism to Operation Game Thief:
☎️ 1-800-ALERT-US or online at https://www.maineogt.org
Every time you act responsibly in the field, you help preserve Maine’s proud tradition of open access for future hunters.
🧭 Plan Your 2025 Maine Hunting Adventure
From moose and bear to whitetail and waterfowl, Maine’s wild lands promise an unforgettable experience for every hunter. Whether exploring remote northern timberlands or southern farm country, your adventure starts with good preparation and respect for the land.
Learn more about licensing, seasons, and regulations:
👉 Maine Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife – Hunting Resources https://www.maine.gov/ifw/hunting-trapping
What to Do in the Moosehead Lake Region & Beyond: Your Complete Guide to Outdoor Adventure & Local Attractions
Planning a trip to the Moosehead Lake region in Maine? You're in for an unforgettable experience packed with adventure, breathtaking natural beauty, and cozy lodging options. From high-adrenaline ATV trails to peaceful paddles on glassy waters, the Moosehead Lake area is a four-season playground perfect for outdoor lovers, families, and anyone looking to unplug and explore.
Want more insider tips? Discover top recommendations at Moose River Lookout, your go-to resource for:
🛶 Boating & paddling routes
🎣 Fishing hotspots
🏕️ Wilderness camping sites
🥾 Trail maps for hiking & nature walks
🍽️ Local dining & shopping recommendations
Stay updated with the latest happenings and news in the Moosehead Lake region. Learn more about what to do and where to go in the Moosehead Lake area and beyond.
🏡 Where to Stay: Moose River Lookout – Your Basecamp for Adventure
Located in Rockwood, Maine, Moose River Lookout is the ultimate vacation home rental for adventurers and nature lovers alike. Nestled on the Moose River, this cozy home features:
Private Dock with access to Moosehead Lake
3 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | Sleeps 7
Free WiFi & TV
Backup Generator
Easy driveway access for trailers & ATVs
Direct access to ITS66 Snowmobile Trails
Year-round availability for summer AND winter sports
Whether you're hiking Blue Ridge, casting a line in the river, or hitting the snowmobile trails—Moose River Lookout is where your Maine vacation begins.
Ultimate Outdoor Getaway
With direct backyard access to Maine's Interconnected Trail System (ITS66) and a private dock on the river, adventure awaits right outside your door. Whether you're into hiking, golfing, boating, fishing, hunting, skiing, or snowmobiling, you'll find it all just steps away from our doorstep.
Book Your Stay
Experience the ultimate outdoor getaway in the heart of Maine's natural beauty. For inquiries or to make a reservation, please don't hesitate to contact us. We look forward to welcoming you to Moose River Lookout, lodging Rockwood Maine a Vacation Home Rental, on Moose River with access to Moosehead Lake and Mt. Kineo!
Phone: 800-544-0300
Email: mooseriverlookout@gmail.com
Address: 4054 Rockwood Rd Rockwood, ME 04478
Website: Moose River Lookout
Whether exploring remote northern timberlands or southern farm country, your adventure starts with good preparation and respect for the land.
