The Guide to the Massachusetts Hunting Season 2026

Massachusetts residents and visitors enjoy many outdoor lifestyle and activity opportunities. The state manages more than 230,000 acres of land available for hunting, trapping, and fishing, so there are plenty of areas to tag out when hunting deer, turkey, and even black bears.

So, what information do you need to plan your Massachusetts hunting season? Keep reading for an overview of the state's hunting license information, bag limits, season dates, and more. We'll also help you scout private hunting lands and find the best public hunt areas for a successful hunt.

Updated February 17, 2026

Why Do Hunters Hunt in Massachusetts?

The people of Massachusetts share in the generous spirit of the outdoors, including donating meat overages to others in need through MassWildlife's Share the Harvest Program. The state fosters a true community of hunters and anglers through wildlife conservation efforts and by regulating safe hunting and outdoor activities.

Plus, the Bay State is simply an excellent place to bring home a nice whitetail, a big turkey, or add a black bear trophy to your game collection.

Where Should I Hunt?

MassWildlife lands include Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) owned by the state and Wildlife Conservation Easements (WCEs). A WCE is privately owned land. However, MassWildlife owns the recreation and development rights, making these lands available for hunting or fishing.

Hunters can also hunt state parks and forests, federal lands, and municipal lands. Just make sure you observe boundaries and regulations for any lands you plan to hunt.

Remember: no matter where you hunt, HuntWise helps you scout land to find the best hunt areas—public or private—for your hunt. Our hunting app delivers land boundary lines, markers, and multiple map layers (including 3-D views) to help you visualize various hunt areas.

When is Hunting Season in Massachusetts?

Let's plan your hunting year!

Note that the season information we provide here is the latest available from the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife. However, we'll update this guide with new season information as it becomes available.

We also recommend confirming 2025-2026 season dates, bag limits, and additional details with the state's official resources to keep up with any information that may change throughout the year.

What Do I Need to Know About Massachusetts Hunting Regulations?

All first-time hunters must pass a hunter education course before getting a hunting license in Massachusetts. However, you could be exempt from this requirement if you've held a hunting license before 2007 or completed a hunter education course elsewhere.

If you still need hunter education, you can take the full course in person, or you can review and complete the study guide online and then finish your certification with an in-person field day class.

After completing your safety certification, you can purchase licenses online through the state's online system. You may also need a stamp or permit, depending on what you hunt.

What are the Bag Limits?

How many black bears, deer, or turkeys can you bring home this year? To comply with the laws for the Mass hunting seasons, make sure you know the bag limits for every animal you hunt. 

What Else Do I Need Before I Can Hunt?

Whether you're excited about the Massachusetts squirrel season or you're planning your annual turkey hunt with your hunting buddies, you need the right gear! Successful hunts require the right clothing (especially for cold weather hunts), a sharp hunting knife, tree saddle accessories, and good binoculars. 

Did you know? HuntWise Pro and Elite subscribers can save hundreds on the best gear for successful hunts! Use the exclusive gear discounts from our partners to save on gear.

Make It Your Best Massachusetts Hunting Season with HuntWise

We hope the information in this guide helps you plan your Massachusetts hunting season this year—but be sure also to check official state resources for the most up-to-date information.

What else? Download the HuntWise hunting app! With 3-D maps, layers (including LiDAR), and forecasting features for animal movement and weather, you have an advantage that other hunters don't use to plan their hunts or carry with them in the field.

Plus, Pro and Elite subscribers experience access to more tools in the app, including up to 15 days of animal activity and weather forecasting.

Make this your best hunting year yet! Download the app and start your free 7-day trial!  

Content most recently reviewed and updated for the latest season dates and details February 17, 2026. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

We have answers to common questions about the Massachusetts hunting season!

Q: Can you shoot two deer in one day in Massachusetts?

A: Generally, no, you can shoot two deer in one day in MA. In Massachusetts, hunters are typically limited to one antlered deer per year. You may take multiple deer in a season if you have the proper antlerless permits, but daily and seasonal limits apply. Always check current season regulations.

Q: Can I shoot squirrels in my yard in Massachusetts?

A: Yes, you can shoot squirrels in your yard in MA, but only during the legal hunting season and with a valid hunting license. Discharging a firearm is also subject to local bylaws and safety zone restrictions (e.g., distance from buildings). Outside of season, it’s generally not allowed unless you have special permission for nuisance wildlife control.

Q: Can I dump corn on the ground for deer?

A: No, you can't dump corn on the ground for deer in MA. Baiting deer (including placing corn or other feed to attract them for hunting) is illegal in Massachusetts.

Q: Can I shoot a coyote in my yard in Massachusetts?

A: Yes, coyotes may be hunted in your yard during the open season with a valid license. However, firearm discharge laws, local ordinances, and safety zone rules still apply. If the coyote poses an immediate threat, contact local authorities or wildlife officials for guidance.

Q: Which rifles are legal in MA?

A: Massachusetts has strict firearm laws. For hunting, deer hunting is generally limited to shotguns, muzzleloaders, and archery equipment (rifles are not permitted for deer). Rifles are allowed for certain species (like coyotes or small game) but must comply with state firearm regulations. Firearms must be compliant with Massachusetts gun laws, which regulate magazine capacity and approved models.