Big Game Tags
Massachusetts Big Game Tags
2026
Elk, moose, and black bear tag requirements in Massachusetts — resident and nonresident fees, species availability, draw versus over-the-counter access, and official purchase links. Massachusetts has a growing black bear population and offers a bear hunting season in the western part of the state. Elk and moose are not hunted in Massachusetts.
Bear Available
2026 Big Game Tag Quick Facts
Verified 2026
Elk Available?
No
No elk population
Bear Available?
Yes
Resident: $28
Moose Available?
No
No moose population
Draw Required?
No / OTC
Tags sold over-the-counter
Species & Fees
Massachusetts Big Game Species Overview
Elk
Elk are not present in Massachusetts or there is no elk hunting season.
Black Bear
Resident Tag$27.50
Nonresident Tag$65.50
TypeOTC Tag
Moose
Moose are not hunted in Massachusetts. No established moose hunting season.
Bear permit required in addition to hunting license
Step-by-Step
How to Get Your Massachusetts Big Game Tag
Follow these steps to successfully obtain your Massachusetts big game tag for the 2026 season.
1
Purchase Your Base Hunting License
A valid Massachusetts hunting license is required before purchasing or applying for big game tags. Buy your license online at the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife website, at a licensed sporting goods store, or from an authorized license agent.
2
Purchase Your Tag
Massachusetts big game tags are sold over-the-counter. Purchase online through Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife's license portal or at a licensed retailer.
Purchase online →
3
Review Species-Specific Regulations
Study Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife's current big game regulations for your target species: legal shooting hours, legal weapons, unit boundaries, antler restrictions, and transport requirements. Regulations are available on the agency website and at license dealers. Massachusetts hunting license plus bear permit.
4
Tag & Report Your Harvest
Upon harvesting your big game animal, immediately fill out and attach your tag before moving the animal. Many states require big game harvest to be reported within 24–48 hours through an online or phone reporting system. Keep your license and tag on your person at all times while hunting and during transport.
Requirements
Massachusetts Big Game Tag Requirements
Massachusetts hunting license plus bear permit.
Important Notes
Massachusetts-Specific Big Game Information
Bear hunting is permitted in the Berkshires and Pioneer Valley regions.
Source: Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (www.mass.gov).
Requirements verified 2026. Big game tag fees and draw deadlines change annually — always confirm directly with Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife before applying or purchasing.