Maryland’s hunting season for 2023-2024 has drawn to a close, leaving behind a tale of successful hunts and conservation efforts. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) recently released its report, revealing that hunters across the state harvested a total of 72,642 deer during the combined archery, firearms, and muzzleloader seasons, spanning from September 8, 2023, through February 3, 2024.
Breaking down the numbers, the harvest comprised 30,025 antlered and 38,511 antlerless white-tailed deer, along with 1,912 antlered and 2,194 antlerless sika deer. While these figures depict a robust harvest, they also mark a slight decrease of 5% compared to the previous season’s total of 76,687 deer.
Karina Stonesifer, the Director of Wildlife and Heritage Service, highlighted the significance of deer hunting in Maryland, not just as a recreational pursuit but as a crucial tool for wildlife management. She emphasized, “Deer hunting is essential for managing the state’s deer population and assists with reducing agricultural damage and deer-vehicle collisions.”
One noteworthy aspect of this season’s hunt was the inclusion of Sundays for deer hunting, permitted during certain weeks in 20 out of Maryland’s 23 counties. Hunters took advantage of this opportunity, accounting for 10% of the total harvest with 7,074 deer harvested on Sundays.
Regionally, the harvest in deer management Region A, covering Western Maryland, decreased by 4%, from 9,552 deer last year to 9,169 this year. Meanwhile, hunters in Region B, encompassing the rest of the state, harvested 63,473 deer, marking a 6% decrease from the previous season’s tally of 67,135 deer.
Frederick County retained its title as the county with the highest reported harvest, boasting 6,549 deer. Carroll County followed closely with 5,729 deer, and Garrett County secured the third spot with 5,108 deer. Rounding out the top five were Baltimore and Washington counties, with 4,550 and 4,418 deer harvested, respectively.
The hunt not only provides recreational opportunities for hunters but also plays a vital role in wildlife management and conservation efforts. By controlling deer populations, hunters contribute to mitigating agricultural damage and minimizing deer-vehicle collisions, thus fostering a healthier ecosystem for both wildlife and humans alike.
As one season ends, anticipation builds for the next, with hunters already preparing for future endeavors in the ongoing cycle of conservation and tradition that defines Maryland’s hunting legacy. For more information Maryland Hunters Harvest 72,642 Deer for 2023-2024 Season
