Public Hunting Land in Maine

Maine is a northeastern paradise for big woods hunters, offering vast tracts of forestland, remote wilderness, and a strong tradition of public access. With over 500,000 acres of state-owned land and additional private lands enrolled in public-use programs, Maine provides excellent opportunities for whitetail deer, black bear, moose, grouse, and more.

Types of Public Land Available in Maine:

• Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs): Managed by the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife (MDIFW), these areas are open to public hunting under state regulations.

• Public Reserved Lands: Managed by the Bureau of Parks and Lands, these forests are open to hunting, fishing, and recreation.

• North Maine Woods: Privately owned but accessible to hunters through a fee-based public use system.

• Private Lands (Traditional Use Access): Many landowners in Maine allow public hunting access unless posted otherwise — a long-standing local tradition.

Seasons & Access Info

Maine requires valid licenses for all hunting and special permits for certain game (e.g., moose, bear, turkey). Hunting regulations vary by Wildlife Management District (WMD).

Key Resources:

• Season Dates & Rules

• License Sales & Permits

• Big Game Permit Drawings (Moose, Antlerless, etc.)

Pro Tip: Maine’s whitetails are elusive in big timber — be ready to track snow and hunt mobile during rifle season.

Explore Hunting Areas in Maine

Plan your hunt with official maps and tools for WMDs, public lands, and access points:

• WMD Map Viewer

• Public Reserved Lands

• North Maine Woods Info & Access

Whether you’re tracking moose in the north or chasing grouse in the western mountains, Maine’s rugged public lands deliver a true wilderness hunting experience.