ANNAPOLIS, MD (October 25, 2002) - As a result of Governor Parris N. Glendening’s action to lift the ban on discharging firearms in Anne Arundel, Howard, Montgomery and Prince George’s counties, the early muzzleloader season will begin effective immediately in those counties, and conclude as scheduled one-half hour after sunset on Sat., Oct. 26. Maryland Department of Natural Resources Wildlife and Heritage Service Director Paul Peditto reminded hunters in those counties that they may only take antlerless deer during this portion of the season.
“We appreciate the cooperation and support of hunters in these counties since the ban was put into effect on Oct. 15,” Peditto said.
Additional Muzzleloader Hunting Season Dates
In order to compensate for lost wildlife management and recreational opportunities due to the recent ban on discharging firearms in Anne Arundel, Howard, Montgomery and Prince George’s Counties, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has added three extra days to the early muzzleloader season in the four affected counties.
DNR Wildlife and Heritage Service Director Paul Peditto announced today that hunters in those counties can hunt Thursday, Oct. 31, Friday, Nov. 1 and Saturday, Nov. 2 and can take a total of two deer; one may be antlered.
Peditto expressed appreciation for the support of hunters and the Sportsmen’s Legislative Caucus in these trying times.
Hunters should note that archery season will remain open during this season but bowhunters in the four affected counties must wear fluorescent orange and deer taken with a bow will count toward their bow season bag limits. Additionally, any deer taken previously in Region C during the early muzzleloader season (Oct. 17-19) count against this bag limit.
Posted: 10-29-2002
