Maryland Department of Natural Resources

DNR Sponsors 13th Annual Maryland Junior Deer Hunt On November 10

ANNAPOLIS, MD — The 13th Annual Maryland Junior Deer Hunt sponsored by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will occur on Saturday, November 10. The white-tailed deer and sika deer firearm hunting season is open on this day exclusively to all hunters 16 years of age and younger who are accompanied by an unarmed, licensed adult of at least 21 years of age.

“This popular hunting day provides an opportunity for experienced adult deer hunters to pass on the knowledge and skills required of safe, effective and ethical hunting in a focused, mentored setting,” said Harry Spiker, DNR Game Mammal Project Leader. “Regulated deer hunting helps maintain healthy forest ecosystems which benefit countless other wildlife species and support a healthy Chesapeake Bay while reducing wildlife conflicts with people. The contribution of Maryland’s deer hunters is crucial in maintaining a deer herd in balance with its habitat and human neighbors.”

All hunters participating in the Junior Deer Hunt must have passed a Maryland Hunter Education Course. The course includes instruction in hunter responsibility, firearm handling and safety, principals of wildlife management, safety and first aid and a host of other hunting fundamentals. All participants must have passed a written Hunter Education test and demonstrated proficiency during a practical test and live firing.

Successful Junior Deer Hunters are encouraged to visit one of Maryland’s Junior Hunter Certificate Agents and receive a special certificate for any deer they harvest. The certificate is available to Junior Hunters during any of the Maryland deer hunting seasons. Participating Certificate Agents as well as complete bag limits, season dates, deer registration procedures and other deer hunting information can be found online in the 2007-2008 Maryland Guide to Hunting & Trapping at www.dnr.maryland.gov/huntersguide.