The cooler weather welcomes the return of Maryland’s waterfowl season — one of the most exciting times of the year for avid hunters. In fact, the Eastern Shore of Maryland has long been known as the Goose Hunting Capital of the World! This region is in the middle of a major flyway, or migration route, for Canadian geese. More than 1.5 million geese and ducks pass through Kent County each winter, drawing hunters from all over the country. Here’s what you need to know to experience the hunting season to the fullest!
About Maryland Waterfowl Season
Bordered by the Chesapeake Bay, the Eastern Shore of Maryland is known for having some of the best hunting opportunities in the U.S. Kent County boasts a variety of birds, including sea ducks, wood ducks, Canadian geese, snow geese, and brant — to name a few. This region is home to large expanses of tidal wetlands, providing the perfect setting for waterfowl hunting, especially. See for yourself why hunters return year after year. This may just become your new winter tradition!
Where to Hunt Waterfowl in Maryland
Three of the best places for hunting on the Eastern Shore of Maryland are Millington WMA, Sassafras NRMA, and Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge. Millington WMA offers 4,000 acres of hunting land and Maryland public waterfowl blinds during the migratory Canadian goose season. Sassafras NRMA provides nearly 1,000 acres and allows general hunting with some restrictions (migratory goose hunting here is by lottery only). Finally, Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge includes waterfowl hunting at several designated sites accessible by boat. These areas are teeming with wildlife and would be an excellent choice for a memorable hunting trip! Before your trip, read the current Maryland Waterfowl Season Hunting Regulations.
Guided Hunts With Quaker Neck Gun Club
Many of our guests at Brampton Inn prefer to take a guided hunting trip. For the ultimate hunting experience along Maryland’s Eastern Shore, book a hunt with the Quaker Neck Gun Club! Situated on 2,800 acres of farms along the Chester River, the gun club offers some of the finest opportunities for hunting deer, Canadian goose, ducks, and doves. The owner of the Quaker Neck Gun Club, Tyler Johnson, is a favorite guide of our hunters and comes highly recommended.
What Birds Are in Season in Maryland?
Maryland’s Department of Natural Resources defines several hunting seasons throughout the year. Here are the upcoming times listed for the forthcoming 2023/2024 bird hunting season:
- Regular Ducks: December 15 – January 31
- Brant: December 28 – January 31
- Wild Turkey: January 18 – January 20, April 18 – May 23
- Migratory Atlantic Canada geese: December 15 – January 31
- Morning Dove: December 16 – January 10
- Woodcock: January 11 – January 27
- Common Snipe: September 29 – January 31
- Light Goose Season: December 11 – January 31 & February 3
- Light Goose Conservation Order Season: November 27 – December 9, February 1 – February 2, February 5 – April 15
For a complete list of this year’s specific hunting dates, available species, and participating counties, consult the official Maryland Hunting Season Calendar. To see bag limits and other game bird regulations, visit the Maryland DNR website.
Brampton Inn Welcomes Hunters!
Now that you know all about Maryland’s waterfowl season, it’s time to start planning your hunting trip! Regarding the best lodging along the Eastern Shore of Maryland, look no further than Brampton Inn. Just a stone’s throw from all the best hunting spots, our elegant Inn offers the ultimate privacy and comfort.
You can expect to start each morning with a delicious, home-cooked breakfast to send you on your way. If you plan to head out before sunrise, we’re happy to accommodate early morning breakfasts upon request. After a thrilling day in a blind, return to the Inn to warm up by the fire, sip a glass of sherry, and unwind comfortably in your guest room or cottage. We would love to host you and your entire group! Plus, we also offer pet-friendly accommodations for guests traveling with a hunting dog.
Are you ready to experience the 2023/2024 Maryland waterfowl season to the fullest? Check availability now.
Updated December 2023
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