Four States Set Hunting Seasons, Youth Hunts, Permits

Maryland’s statewide muzzleloader deer season runs Oct. 22–24, with an additional Oct. 26–31 antlerless-only period in Region B. Arkansas’s alternative firearms deer season opens Oct. 17, allowing both traditional muzzleloaders and straight-wall cartridge firearms; wildlife officials say cooler weather may boost participation and encourage hunters to harvest does to help balance the herd. Utah residents can apply Oct. 20–Nov. 10 for 2027 sportsman permits, which provide extended seasons and broad access to units; application fees are $10 per species, with only one permit offered for each species. In California, applications are open for Shasta County’s Junior and Family Pheasant Hunt, scheduled for Nov. 14–15, which combines a youth-focused hunt with safety and shooting instruction.