The November hunting season is here! 

Like thousands of hunters, you have likely spent months anticipating the November firearms season in Maine and now it’s finally here! You have scouted your favorite hunting spot, prepared your hunting equipment and gear, and now you’re ready for the hunt. As you head out for the woods, the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife asks that you to take a few extra moments to remember these important safety tips and to be prepared for unexpected endeavors in the Maine woods.

Keep it safe.

Hunting is one of the safest outdoor activities in Maine! Let's keep it that way by following these safety tips when heading into the woods: 

• Treat every firearm as if it is loaded 
• Always keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction 
• Use safe carrying methods 
• Always be certain of your target and beyond
• Be aware of your surroundings and others around you
  
  

Remember, hunters share the woods with many others! Utility workers, road crews, woods operators and fellow outdoor enthusiasts are also out and about. Always be cautious and courteous. 

Have a plan. Be prepared.

Before you head out for any adventure in the Maine outdoors, always tell someone your plan for the day to include where you are going and when you plan to return. If your trip plans change, be sure to tell someone that they have changed. Bring a small pack to include essential items such as food and water, a means to make fire, extra socks, any needed medications, a compass and a GPS or cell phone. All of these items will easily fit into a comfortable pack that will add considerable safety to any trip. These items will not only make an unexpected stay in the woods more comfortable, Maine’s game wardens will have a much easier time locating you should you become lost.

Mentor a hunter: take one, make one. 

Share your passion for hunting with a friend or family member. It's easier than ever to introduce someone new to hunting in Maine. For mentors, sharing a passion is rewarding and will ensure that our hunting heritage carries on. This hunting season, consider encouraging a friend, neighbor or relative to join you on the hunt. If you know someone who is interested in giving hunting a try and who hasn't been before, Maine's apprentice hunting license allows them to hunt with a mentor instead of getting hunter ed certified and going it alone. LEARN MORE

Know before you go. 

Review the 2017-2018 Maine Hunting Laws Legal Hunting Hours Hunting Seasons and Bag Limits Accessing Private Land Junior Hunter Information Wildlife Management Districts Report Violations through Operation Game Thief List of registration (tagging) stations