Maryland Hunters Bag 8.9% More Deer in Firearm Season
In the heart of Maryland, hunters eagerly took to the fields for the two-week firearm season from November 30 to December 14, resulting in a whopping 8.9% increase in deer harvest compared to the previous year. A total of 30,833 deer were successfully harvested this season, up from 28,312 in 2023. This surge in numbers highlights the importance of the firearm season in managing the state’s deer population.
Director of the Wildlife and Heritage Service, Karina Stonesifer, expressed gratitude to all participants for their role in maintaining Maryland’s deer population. She commended the successful hunters for stocking their freezers with venison and contributing to wildlife management efforts.
### Harvest Breakdown
– **Antlered Deer:** Hunters bagged 11,709 antlered deer, a slight decrease of 2.7% from the previous year.
– **Antlerless Deer:** The real star of the show was the antlerless deer harvest, which saw a significant 17% increase from 16,284 to 19,124.
– **Sika Deer:** A total of 1,106 Sika deer were harvested, with 540 antlered and 566 antlerless, marking a 1.4% overall increase. Sunday hunting also played a significant role, accounting for 13% of the total harvest.
### Regional Highlights
In Region A, which includes Allegany, Garrett, and western Washington counties, the antlered deer harvest rose by 2.5% to 2,632, while antlerless deer saw a significant 48% increase to 2,106. This uptick in antlerless harvest was attributed to a regulation change that extended the season, providing hunters with more opportunities.
Conversely, Region B, covering the remainder of the state, experienced a 4% decrease in antlered deer harvest to 9,077. However, the antlerless deer harvest surged by 14.5% to 17,018, showcasing a balanced effort in wildlife management across Maryland.
### Upcoming Opportunities
For avid hunters looking to continue their passion, the Muzzleloader Season reopens on December 21 and runs through January 4, 2025. Additionally, the Modern Firearm Season kicks off again on January 10, 2025, in Region B, offering more chances to engage in conservation efforts.
By participating in these seasons, hunters actively contribute to conservation and wildlife management, ensuring a sustainable balance in the deer population across the state. This annual harvest is instrumental in preventing overpopulation, which can lead to habitat degradation and increased vehicle collisions.
For more information on hunting regulations, upcoming seasons, and available resources, interested individuals can visit the Maryland Department of Natural Resources’ Deer Hunting Guide.
As a native of Southern Maryland, my childhood was filled with stories of hunting trips and wildlife encounters. I vividly remember the excitement of tracking deer in the woods with my family and the sense of pride when we successfully harvested one. Hunting isn’t just a pastime; it’s a way for communities to come together, bond over shared experiences, and contribute to the well-being of our natural surroundings. So, to all the hunters out there, keep aiming true and continue to be stewards of the land we call home. Happy hunting!
