Hunting the Northeast

[Bosshogg]

So looking to hunt Maine and New Hampshire this year... is it true you can hunt any land that's unposted up in the northeast? I've never been up that far and don't want to get screwed.

[mcw3734]

I'd strongly recommend reading each state's hunting regulations. If its not clear in the regs, call the appropriate agency and ask to speak with a conservation officer for a law clarification.

Besides answering your question, maybe it'll give the CO a positive impression that you're doing your homework and playing by the rules. Maybe steer the conversation towards tips on how to start looking for birds, in general terms. See where it takes you.

[Bowguy]

Good advice. Not sure why guys don't want to go to the source for info they need. It's in a best interest to do so and it's simpler than waiting on replies on a forum never knowing for sure you'll get correct info.

[EZ]

In Maine, you should always ask permission before hunting on private property. While Maine has an implied permission structure, it's considered careless to hunt without the owner's permission.

What to ask

Where you can park or drive
Which activities are permitted
If you need to get written permission for anything

What to expect

Some landowners may allow access if you ask
Landowners may have special requests
You should respect the landowner's wishes

What are the consequences

Hunting without permission is considered trespassing, which is a crime
If convicted, you may lose your hunting license
Your actions may impact future access to private land
What are the laws for posting land
Landowners should post signs or paint markings at all vehicular access points
It's illegal to remove, destroy, or deface any signs or paint markings

[deerhunt1988]

Ask. Land is getting posted at an astounding rate up there from the influx of non-resident turkey hunters over the past several years. Don't contribute to the problem.

[nyhunter]

I don't give a rip what the law says, I go knock on doors and ask . Your a lot more likely to get out of there without a problem if you just stop and ask. Just my   

[GobbleNut]

I totally agree that when the property-owner's residence is obvious, always ask permission before hunting. The real question to those that hunt in places where it is legal to hunt private property if it is not posted: If you hear a gobbler on such a property and you cannot run down the owner to get permission, are you going to hunt that bird or just move on?  ...Or worse yet, if that is the only gobbler around, will you "follow the law" and hunt that bird...or will you just say "Oh well" and go back to camp?

...Let's just see who will answer honestly here...   

(and by the way, I don't live in a place where these types of laws exist so I have no dog in this fight)

[Zobo]

Speaking as a New Englander with a lot of experience in these matters: I personally would not f around in Maine these days.

[zelmo1]

Use your head and be considerate. There is land to hunt, so do it legally and ethically. Don't try to be a lawyer and split hairs or interpret laws, ask and be sure. I live in New England and the laws and attitudes vary due to the location. But most importantly, your attitude does matter. Be polite and respectful and you will find a place to hunt. Z