Massachusetts Hunting & Fishing Licenses
Complete guide to Massachusetts hunting and fishing licenses for 2026. Get current prices, purchase online, and learn about MassWildlife's digital license requirements.
Quick Facts
Digital License
Accepted
License Year
January 1 - December 31
Agency
MassWildlife
Draw System
random
HIP Required
Migratory birds
Last updated: January 29, 2026
Massachusetts License Pricing
Compare resident and non-resident prices for hunting and fishing licenses.
| License Type | Resident | Non-Resident |
|---|---|---|
| Resident Hunting Basic hunting license (small game) | $57.00 | $122.00 |
| Resident Big Game Big game hunting license - required for deer | $57.00 | $200.00 |
| Resident Fishing Annual fishing license | $33.00 | $43.00 |
| Antlerless Deer Permit Zone-specific antlerless permit | $5.00 | $10.00 |
Prices are for annual licenses unless otherwise noted. Additional stamps and endorsements may be required.
MassWildlife Licensing
Digital licenses available through MassWildlife online system.
Kalkomey licensing platform
Hunter Passport
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- Works offline - no signal needed
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Store up to 2 licenses free. Unlimited with Premium.
Hunter Passport is not affiliated with or endorsed by any state wildlife agency.
Massachusetts Tag Draws & Lotteries
random Point System
All applicants have equal odds regardless of previous applications.
Draw Species
Application Deadline
October
Most hunting is over-the-counter. Antlerless permits for specific zones may require lottery.
Massachusetts Hunting Quirks & Tips
Unique rules and insider knowledge for hunting and fishing in Massachusetts.
Phased Fee Increases Complete
importantMassachusetts completed phased fee increases as of 2025-26. Prices now reflect the final tier.
Separate Big Game License
importantA separate Big Game license is required for deer hunting, in addition to the basic hunting license.
Sunday Hunting Now Legal
infoMassachusetts legalized Sunday hunting on private land in 2022. Still prohibited on state land.
Non-Resident Small Game
infoAt $122, Massachusetts non-resident small game licenses are moderately priced for the Northeast region.
Hunting Tools for Massachusetts
Free calculators and planning tools to help you hunt smarter in Massachusetts.
Legal Shooting Hours
Calculate legal hunting start and end times based on sunrise/sunset
Hunting License Cost
Compare hunting and fishing license costs for Massachusetts and residency
Hunter Education
Find hunter education requirements, exemptions, and course providers for Massachusetts
Hunting Season Dates
Find hunting season dates for Massachusetts, species, and weapon type
Bag Limit & Size Limit
Find daily, possession, and size limits for Massachusetts and species
Massachusetts Hunting & Fishing FAQ
How much does a Massachusetts hunting license cost?
Resident hunting licenses cost $57 for small game, with a separate $57 big game license for deer. Non-residents pay $122 small game, $200 big game.
Does Massachusetts accept digital hunting licenses?
Yes, Massachusetts accepts digital licenses through the MassWildlife online system.
Can I hunt on Sundays in Massachusetts?
Sunday hunting is now legal on private land (as of 2022). It remains prohibited on state-owned land.
Do I need separate licenses for small game and deer in Massachusetts?
Yes, a separate Big Game license is required for deer hunting in addition to the basic hunting license.
Are Massachusetts hunting fees increasing?
Massachusetts completed its phased fee increases as of 2025-26. Current prices reflect the final fee tier.
Store Your Massachusetts License in Hunter Passport
Keep your Massachusetts hunting and fishing licenses alongside all your other states. Works offline, displays instantly, never fumble for paper again.