Deer Tags
Maine Deer Tags
2026
Complete guide to deer tag requirements in Maine — official agency links, resident and nonresident tag fees, antlerless permits, bag limits, and how to purchase your tags. Maine manages a large whitetail deer population across the state, with the highest densities in the southern agricultural zone and lower densities in the big woods north. A separate deer license/tag is required to hunt deer. Maine employs antlerless deer permit systems (ANTPs) to manage doe harvest in specific Wildlife Management Districts (WMDs) where population reduction is a goal.
Separate Tag Required
Up to 2 Tags (Resident)
Resident Tag: $26
2026 Deer Tag Quick Facts
Verified 2026
Resident Tag Fee
$26
Antlerless tags require separate permit application by WMD
Nonresident Fee
$115
per nonresident deer tag
Max Tags (Resident)
2
deer per season
Tag Required?
Yes
Purchase separately
Antlerless Tags
Resident: $12
Nonresident: $34
Step-by-Step
How to Get Your Maine Deer Tag
Follow these steps to purchase and properly use your Maine deer tag for the 2026 season.
1
Purchase Your Base Hunting License
Before buying a deer tag, you must have a valid Maine hunting license. Residents and nonresidents must purchase the appropriate base license for the season. You can purchase online at the Maine Dept. of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife website or at a licensed sporting goods retailer.
2
Purchase Your Deer Tag(s)
Purchase your deer tag(s) separately from Maine Dept. of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife online, at a license agent, or at a sporting goods store.
Resident tags are $26 and nonresident tags are $115. Purchase online →
3
Know Your Requirements Before Hunting
Review Maine's current deer hunting regulations for season dates, legal shooting hours, legal deer definitions, antler restrictions (if any), and zone-specific rules. Regulations are available on the Maine Dept. of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife website and at license agents. Maine Hunting License and Deer License required. Antlerless permits must be applied for in advance.
4
Immediately Tag Your Harvest
Upon harvesting a deer, you must immediately fill out your deer tag and attach it to the deer before moving it. Most states require you to notch the month and day, then attach it to a visible location. Keep your license and tags on your person while hunting and during transport.
Requirements
Maine Deer Tag Requirements
Maine Hunting License and Deer License required. Antlerless permits must be applied for in advance.
Important Notes
Maine-Specific Tag Information
Antlerless deer permits are issued by Wildlife Management District and may be limited. Apply before October 1.
Source: Maine Dept. of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife (www.maine.gov).
Requirements verified 2026. Always confirm current fees and tag requirements directly with Maine Dept. of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife before purchasing.