1.  How many moose hunting permits are there annually in Maine?

Over 3,000 a year, and they are split up between 22 Wildlife Management Districts ("WMD").  Some WMDs have just "Bull Only Permits" ("BOP"); some include "Antlerless Only Permits ("AOP") as well.

2.  How do I get a Maine Moose Permit?

You enter a drawing held by the Maine Dept. of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife, or submit a sealed bid for one of ten moose permits awarded through the Maine Moose Auction.  Click here for more auction info.

3.  Can non-residents apply for moose permits?

Yes, by law, ten percent (10%) of the permits for each WMD go to non-resident applicants.

4.  How do I apply?

 You can apply on-line at www.mefishwildlife.com .  Maine F&W will no longer send out paper applications. At the F&W website, click on the moose. Contact me if you want a paper application.

5.  When do I need to apply?

You can start mid- January and the deadline for online entry is 11:59 PM May 14, 2009. Paper application deadline is postmarked April 1st.

6.  How much is the application fee?

2010 rates: One chance for a non-resident is $15.00; three chances are $25.00; six are $35.00; and ten chance groups are $55.00, and quantity is unlimited when purchased in groups of ten.  For example:  50 chances are $275.00; five 10 chance groups times $55 = $275.00.  Only non-residents can buy unlimited chances.

7.  When is the drawing?

Mid-June.  Results are posted on the Maine Fish & Wildlife website.

8. What are my odds of being selected?

Non-resident: The F & W Dept. indicates 1 in 700 for every chance you are entered with. That would make it look like entering with 10 entry chances would increase your odds to 1 in 70. However, my conversations with non-residents suggest that most non-residents buy at least 10 entry chances. If most of them do, then realistically you have to buy 10 chances just to get the 1 in 700 odds. 

 Resident: One chance/no bonus points = 1 in 100. Six chances & max. bonus points = 1 in 10.

9.  How much is a non-resident permit?

$477.00, and it is not due until after the drawing.

10.  How much is a non-resident Maine Big Game Hunting License?

$116.00, and you needn't buy one unless you are selected for a moose permit and choose to accept it.

11. What if I hunt only with a bow? 

You don't need the Big Game License, but you need an Archery License.

12.  Do my odds of being picked increase or decrease according to my WMD choices?

No.

13.  Is a "sub-permittee" necessary?

No.

Please click on "Seasons & Hunt Districts" at upper left to get information on making these choices.