IFW Moosehead and Penobscot region hunting reports

Hunters in the Moosehead area have had a strong start to the season, particularly in the southern part of the region.

“Youth Day was a big hit, with a lot of young hunters successful, and opening day was better than expected with good numbers of deer at area tagging stations,” said IFW wildlife biologist Doug Kane, who said that the Sangerville tagging station registered 20 deer.

Further north, it’s been slower, but that changes as the weather changes.

“In the north, there isn’t much hunter effort until the third week of the season. Once it gets cold, hunters are going to do real well,” said Kane.

Deer hunters in the area may also get an opportunity to take a bear this deer season. The warmer weather and abundant natural foods means bears are still feasting.

“Bears are still out, eating beech nuts and other mast. This could be a good season for deer hunters to get a shot at a bear,” Kane said .

While the frosty mornings have not been that frequent, leaves are off the hardwoods, and grouse are showing up much more than they were just three weeks ago.

Deer hunters in the southern part of the Penobscot region have had success, but it has been a little slower as you head north.

“We haven’t had a lot of hunters out yet,” said IFW wildlife biologist Allen Starr, “But it is still early.”

Starr has received some reports of some big deer, including a 230-pound, 10- pointer in Millinocket.

Deer in the area are in great shape added IFW wildlife biologist Mark Caron, who added that he got reports of a couple in the 250-pound class.

“Some of the tagging stations are slow, but they deer they are getting are in great shape. We are getting a lot of good reports,” said Caron.

Duck hunters are still finding birds as well, with hunters who put in the time being rewarded with some good hunting.