MARYLAND - The Maryland Department of Natural Resources has announced dates for the 2026-2027 migratory game bird hunting seasons.
Unless otherwise noted, official shooting hours begin 30 minutes before sunrise and end at sunset for all early migratory game bird hunting seasons.
Season dates are as follows:
Dove, split season
First Season: Sept. 1 to Oct. 17
Second Season: Oct. 24 to Nov. 27
Third Season: Dec. 19 to Jan. 9, 2027
Woodcock, split season
First Season: Oct. 24 to Nov. 27
Second Season: Jan. 11 to Jan. 27, 2027
Early resident Canada Goose Season
Eastern zone: Sept. 1 to Sept. 15
Western zone: Sept. 1 to Sept. 25
Teal, September Season
Sept. 17 to Sept. 26
All migratory bird hunters, including landowners who are license-exempt, must purchase a Maryland Migratory Game Bird Stamp/Harvest Information Program Permit and possess the printed receipt while hunting. All waterfowl hunters, ages 16 and older, must possess a printed receipt of the Federal Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp.
"September marks the beginning of the fall migration period, and with that comes opportunities for hunters as seasons open for mourning doves and early resident Canada geese," said Wildlife and Heritage Director Karina Stonesifer. "The department encourages experienced hunters to share their experience with a novice hunter, so more people can experience all that Maryland’s outdoors has to offer."
