massachusetts

and 2014

wildlifeguide to hunting freshwater fishing and trapping , ,

Page 20 Page 6 A Sportsmen's Guide to Walnut Hill WMA and the Bay State Frogs & Toads Keystone Arches

– official massachusetts hunting, fishing, and trapping regulations – Proud to be a part of your hunting success!

Ammunition & Reloading Small-caliber ammunition for sport-shooting enthusiasts, devoted hunters, as well as federal and local law enforcement agencies. Reloading presses, dies, priming tools, scales and all the accessories! Tactical Top-quality products for law enforcement agencies, including gun-care products, optics, mounting systems for rifle scopes, tactical nylon vests, holsters, harnesses for insertion and extraction, gear bags, packs, pouches, weapons cases, slings, and apparel.

Optics & Accessories Designed for serious big-game hunters and shooters, our high-performance optics and shooting accessories from these leading brands are engineered to meet the strictest standards. From spotting scopes, rifle scopes, rangefinders and binoculars to traps, targets and cleaning kits, shop a tremendous selection, all in one place!

Rte 1 Kittery, ME / Mon-Sat 9-9, Sun 10-6 / 888-587-6246 / ktp.com / ktpguns.com See our instant $25 OFF coupon on page 50! Proud to be a part of Features your hunting success! 6 Walnut Hill WMA and the Keystone Arches 20 A Sportsmen's Guide to Bay State Frogs and Toads 44 Building with Our Own Resources Frog and Toad Identification Page 20 Ammunition & Reloading Contents Small-caliber ammunition FISHING...... 12–19 for sport-shooting GENERAL HUNTING...... 23–40 enthusiasts, devoted From the Director...... 2 Fishing Regulations...... 12 Summary of Hunting Season Dates...... 23 hunters, as well as Office Directory and Location Map...... 5 Bait Regulations...... 13 General Hunting Regulations...... 24 federal and local law Licenses, Stamps, and Permits...... 8 Catch-and-Release Areas...... 13 Non-resident Hunters...... 24 enforcement agencies. Reloading presses, License, Stamp, and Permit Fees...... 10 Fish Consumption Advisories...... 14 Wildlife Management Area dies, priming tools, Wildlife Management Zone Map...... 26–27 Free Fishing Weekend...... 14 (WMA) Regulations...... 25 scales and all the Massachusetts Gun Laws...... 28 Interstate Ponds Regulations...... 14 Hunting Hours...... 28 accessories! Outdoor Skills and Wildlife Marine Fisheries Information Hotline...... 14 Hunting Prohibitions...... 30 Education Programs...... 46 Fishing Prohibitions...... 14–15 Special Hunts...... 37 Tactical Office of Law Enforcement Directory...... 48 Boat and ATV Registration Information.....15 Game Regulations...... 31–40 Top-quality products Sunrise-Sunset Table...... 52 Fishes of Massachusetts...... 16–17 Black Bear...... 31 for law enforcement agencies, including Freshwater Sportfishing Upland Game Birds...... 32 gun-care products, optics, Awards Program...... 18 Deer...... 34–37 mounting systems for rifle Rabbits and Squirrels...... 38 scopes, tactical nylon vests, Reptiles and Amphibians...... 39 holsters, harnesses for insertion and extraction, gear bags, packs, Building with our own Resources Furbearers...... 40 pouches, weapons cases, slings, Page 44 and apparel. TRAPPING...... 41–43 Furbearer Regulations...... 41 Furbearer Check Stations...... 42 Problem Animal Control Licensing...... 43 Trapping Prohibitions...... 43

Optics & Accessories HAVE A QUESTION? VISIT OUR WEBSITE Designed for serious big-game hunters and shooters, our high-performance optics www.mass.gov/masswildlife, or e-mail us at [email protected] and shooting accessories from these leading brands are engineered to meet the strictest NEW FOR 2014: The Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and standards. From spotting scopes, rifle scopes, Wildlife is an agency of the Massachusetts rangefinders and binoculars to traps, targets • American Shad fishing is now strictly Catch-and-Release in Department of Fish and Game. and cleaning kits, shop a tremendous all waters except the Connecticut River, the Merrimack River, selection, all in one place! and their tributaries. There is now a 3-fish daily creel limit for ON THE COVER American Shad on these waters. See page 12. Black bears were only found in northern Berkshire county in the 1970s, but now bears live and raise their young as far east as central Massachusetts in both rural and some residential areas. Their range has expanded further into eastern Massachusetts, Rte 1 Kittery, ME / Mon-Sat 9-9, Sun 10-6 / 888-587-6246 / ktp.com / ktpguns.com causing people and communities to adjust their behavior and to learn how to live with bears. Black See our instant coupon on page 50! bears may be hunted in September and November $25 OFF in Wildlife Management Zones 1-9. From the Director A hunter or angler from 1913 would be absolutely astounded by the fishing and hunting opportunities found in Massachusetts today. A century ago, the status of fish and wildlife resources in Massachusetts was truly deplorable. There were fewer than 1,000 white- tailed deer, perhaps 20 black bear, no COMMONWEALTH OF wild turkeys, no resident Canada geese, MASSACHUSETTS and very few wood ducks in the entire DEVAL L. PATRICK, Governor state. Trout fishing opportunities were limited, and there was absolutely no EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF ENERGY opportunity to fish for landlocked & ENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS salmon, lake trout, or northern pike Richard K. Sullivan Jr., Secretary anywhere in the state. Today, the Massachusetts deer herd DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND GAME exceeds 90,000 animals, there are over MARY B. GRIFFIN, Commissioner 4,000 black bears in the state, Canada geese are so plentiful that we have special early and late resident-goose hunting seasons, and wood ducks are abundant throughout the state. Wild turkeys have been restored throughout the Common- DIVISION OF FISHERIES & WILDLIFE wealth and the annual harvest now exceeds 2,000 of these magnificent game WAYNE F. MacCALLUM, Director birds. The annual stocking of 400,000 - 500,000 brook, brown, and rainbow trout provides quality trout fishing in most of our communities, including Boston, Worcester, and Springfield. Fishable populations of landlocked salmon and lake FISHERIES & WILDLIFE BOARD trout have been established in Quabbin and Wachusett reservoirs. Northern pike GEORGE L. DAREY, Chair (Lenox) fry are being periodically stocked in selected waters throughout the state, and FRED WINTHROP (Ipswich) are especially sought after by ice fishermen. JOHN F. CREEDON, Esq. (Brockton) JOSEPH S. LARSON, Ph.D. (Pelham) The restoration of the state’s fish and wildlife resources has been accomplished BONITA J. BOOTH (Spencer) using the money that you, the hunting and fishing public, pay for licenses and MICHAEL P. ROCHE (Orange) federal excise taxes (about 11%) collected on fishing tackle, firearms, ammunition, BRANDI VAN ROO, Ph.D. (Douglas) and related hunting gear. Without these monies, the remarkable restoration of our fish and wildlife resources could not have taken place. Regardless of whether one chooses to actively participate in recreational fishing or hunting, the broader NATURAL HERITAGE & ENDANGERED public that is interested in wildlife and its future needs to be made aware of and SPECIES ADVISORY COMMITTEE understand the conservation role played by hunters and anglers. Sportsmen and KATHLEEN S. ANDERSON, Chair (Middleborough) sportswomen are not only among the most important tools we rely on to manage JOSEPH S. LARSON, Ph.D. (Pelham) our game populations, but also provide the chief financial support for all our MARK MELLO (South Dartmouth) wildlife research, highly trained personnel, and wildlife education programs. GLENN MOTZKIN (Shutesbury) THOMAS J. RAWINSKI (Oakham) JONATHAN A. SHAW (Sandwich) Since the 1990 passage of the sportsmen-initiated legislation that requires the purchase of a $5.00 Wildlands Conservation Stamp when buying a fishing, hunting, ASSOCIATE MEMBERS or trapping license, the amount of Division-owned wildlife lands has increased WILLIAM E. BRUMBACK (Framingham) from less than 50,000 acres to more than 200,000 acres. This incredible success ANDY FINTON (Boston) has been achieved by pooling Wildlands Conservation Stamp monies with Open TIMOTHY FLANAGAN (Lenox) Space bond monies administered through the Department. The protection of open WAYNE R. PETERSEN (Hanson) space has been a priority of the Fisheries and Wildlife Board, Governor Patrick, MARK POKRAS, DVM (North Grafton) Secretary Sullivan, and Commissioner Griffin. The result has been that in the BRYAN WINDMILLER (Concord) 7 years of the Patrick Administration, over 100,000 acres have been protected by state and municipal agencies, of which 38,000 acres are DFW/DFG lands. This investment in open space reflects the strong support of the public and the proactive leadership of the sporting/conservation/environmental community in effectively advocating for investing in public land protection.

Visit the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife on-line at www.mass.gov/masswildlife Continued on page 4. 2 MA Division of Fisheries & Wildlife RuggED AnD READY fOR EVERYTHIng. Load it up for hunting. Then swap out your guns for rods and tackle bags when the fish start biting. Whatever your pastime, and wherever it takes you, GRIZZLY® Jon boat packages feature all-welded hulls, a VERSATRACK® accessory-mounting system, livewell, storage, BEARHIDE® non-skid liner and more to provide all the ruggedness and versatility you need.

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One Bass Pro Drive, Foxborough, MA 02035 • (508) 216-2000 Hours: Mon–Sat 9am–9pm, Sun 10am–7pm massachusetts FROM THE DIRECTOR (continued) and 2014 Lastly, through environmental bond bill funds made available by the Patrick admin-

and trapping freshwater fishing, istration and the legislature, the construction of a state-of-the-art, energy-neutral wildlifeguide to hunting, building at our centrally located Westborough Field Headquarters site is on schedule, and we expect to vacate our temporary offices at 100 Hartwell Street, West Boylston, by July 2014. We hope you will come visit this facility when it is completed and see how modern technology combined with wood harvested from our own wildlife lands can result in a beautiful, efficient building that generates its own heating, cooling, and electrical needs. It’s really quite the wonder!

Page 8 Page 24 Walnut Hill WMA and the A Sportsmen's Guide to Keystone Arches Bay State Frogs & Toads – , fishing, and trapping regulations – official massachusetts hunting About this Guide This high-quality regulation guide is offered to you by the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries & Wildlife through its unique partnership with J.F. Griffin Publishing, LLC. J.F. Griffin is an award winning publishing house that specializes in producing state fish & wildlife regulation guides. J.F. Griffin supports the The only changes in the fishing and hunting regulations for 2014 are: Massachusetts Division of Fisheries & Wildlife’s staff in the design, layout, and editing of the guides. They also manage the marketing and sales of advertising • No harvest (catch-and-release only) of American shad in inland waters except the to appropriate businesses within the guide. Connecticut River and its tributaries and the Merrimack River and its tributaries. The revenue generated through ad sales significantly lowers production costs and generates savings. • The American shad creel or bag limit on the Connecticut River and its tributaries These savings translate into additional funds for and the Merrimack River and its tributaries has been reduced to three (3) per day. other important wildlife and habitat programs. If you have any feedback or are interested in These changes reflect the fact that shad numbers have declined over most of the advertising, please contact us at 413.884.1001 or species’ range and the population, though certainly not endangered, is clearly at online at www.JFGriffin.com a level where more conservative conservation measures are advised.

As always, it is important to reiterate that it is the goal of the Fisheries and Wild- Designers: Jon Gulley, Erin Murphy, life Board to make the most efficient use of the funds that you, the sportsmen and Evelyn Haddad, Chris Sobolowski and Dane Fay -women, provide to the Division through your donations and license purchases. The excellent state of our fish and wildlife resources is directly attributable to the willingness of our license buyers to shoulder the costs of our wildlife conservation programs. We are ever mindful of this and thank you for your continuing support.

430 Main St. Suite 5 | Williamstown, MA 01267

Wayne F. MacCallum, Director

Notice Since 1938, the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife has partnered This Guide contains a summary of the with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Sportsmen and Women, and the Fishing, laws and regulations in place as of Oc- Hunting, Shooting, and Boating Industries, to fund fish and wildlife conservation projects through the Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program. Today, this tober 15, 2013. Any changes in law or pioneering program serves as a cost-effective model for fish regulation enacted after October 15 are and wildlife conservation by providing fishing and hunting publicized through releases to the news access to those who both funded and directly benefit from the media, all license sales outlets, and on resource – the anglers and hunters. Their contributions through our website. These are not the complete this “user pay, public benefit” conservation model – funded laws and regulations. Laws and regula- by license purchases and excise taxes on fishing and hunting tions (MGL Ch. 131 and 321 CMR) are equipment – benefit all Massachusetts residents. subject to change.

4 www.mass.gov/masswildlife MA Division of Fisheries & Wildlife Division of Fisheries & Wildlife Directory y Salisbur

Merrimac y WESTERN WILDLIFE CONNECTICUT VALLEY CENTRAL WILDLIFE NORTHEAST WILDLIFE AmesburNewbur% G ypor% est t DISTRICT WILDLIFE DISTRICT DISTRICT DISTRICT W ewbury y Haverhill N G Newbur G G Groveland Clarksburg Monroe Leyden Bernar getown G G G Nor G G Methuene Bo Geor wley G North Rowe xf Ro Heath theld Townsen Adams dston Warwick Royalston Ashby G DunstableG Lawrenc AndoveNor or lorida Colrain G % G I gh Dracut d % Ipswich F G G d rou th Williamstown G G G bo C I inchendonI Pepperell s Andover d Rockport har r ter Adams lem Shelburne G I W Tyng Lowell G s ont Gill G I L G Chelm T Middle Hamilto G New I G Ashburnham unenburg ewksbur % Erving g I Essex Ashford T Groton We TopselW n Savoy empleton G enham louce y % Buckland Orange G G Hawley Greeneld st sf y North Manchester G G I Gardner I ford o to e G Montague Phillipsto r d ReadingLy n DanversBeverly G Athol Fitchbur Ayer All DFW lands and facilities are open Cheshir Wendell Shirle Billerica nnel Deer G Littleton ilmington Peabody Lanesborough L G W Windsor Plaineld Asheld eld n Carlisle to anyone without regard to race, color, Conway G Leominster Reading I G Westminster d d GI vard or Wakeeld Stoneham Dalton G Saugus Salem Hancock x- I G y n Marblehead G I G G Hubbardston % I Har Bo Acton Bedf Burlington Lynn creed, sex, handicap, or age. G Goshe G New G borough d Le obur n Petersham W ter Swampscott Pittseld G Cummington G Princeton xingto G G L Leverett Salem Lancaster oncor inches Melrose Hinsdale W G G d C W d illiamsbur G Sterling ln or Nahant G G Sunderland Bolton Arlington G Peru Worthingto Whately Shutesbur G Stow ynar Malden ChesteI G G Medf Revere G Ma n Bel % G G y Linco Somer Rutland m Everett Barre W o DFW Offices G Clinton n Cambridge reld Hateld G Bo am t ville Chelsea Lenox Middleeld Pelham est Berlin Hudson h Washington G G g G ylston lt Watert Winthrop Richmond n G Oak Sudbur own G Hardwick I ham Nor yland Wa ough eston Newton ▲ Fish Hatchery G Holden ylston borough Marlbor Fr th- Wa W G Hadley line Amherst New amingham G n Northampton G G Paxt Bo est L bridge Lee y kbridge Belcher Braintree on Shrewsbur W Chester G G BrookeldNor South- llesle Brook ● Wildlife Management Area Tyringham Becket G Boston G - BrookeldW G G Natick We Hull esthampton est th - borough Stock G I Stoc G G Ware Worcester W townG est Ashland Needham G Southampton East y W Dedham y Huntingto Granby Mont W ✪ I Spencer borough Sherbor estwood Wildlife Sanctuary t I G G Brookeld ilton EgremonAlford hampton South n Dover M Quinc Grea Hadley I gomer East G G m ohasset Scituate G G L eicester n G ton Hopkinton

% G C Barrington G G Warren G G L y R Braintree ■ Monterey I I Brookeld ubur andolph Wildlife Conservation Easement Otis Blandford y Ludlow A Graf wood Hingha Holyoke Palmer G illbur Nor M Upton Holliston Millis G G M eymouth Norwell t Canton Rock G SpringeldW G illf ay W G Chicopee Medeld Hol- W G I est or Medw ashington th- Hopedale

Moun I Russell Westeld A H Marsheld on brook Wilbraha Charlton Oxford Sutton Nor G d alpole Stough- bingt anov G Brimeld No W land

New Springeld m Sturbridge bridge Mendon rf Av er She€eld G olk ton o G Marlborough Tolland G G m lin n t Sandiseld Monson G k Sharon Granville East Hampden G ha Hanson G W ran x- Whitman incetown Southwick Agawam ebsterG F Duxbur Prov Long- Long- G - Fo BrocktonBridgewaterEast G meadowmeadow ales South- Dudley Uxbridge W Holland G G Douglas enthamborough embroke bridge illville Black P y T Belling Wr Easton G rur est M stone G ville W Kingston o Plain Manseld G Bridgewater th G Bridgewater Halifax Nor Norton Ra McLAUGHLIN FISH HATCHERY SOUTHEAST WILDLIFE ell‹eet ynham W Attleborough Plympton G 90 East Street, Belchertown 01007, (413) 323-7671 G DISTRICT Attleborough Taunton GMi Plymouth ddleb I • Jim Hahn, Supervisor HUNTER EDUCATION PROGRAM Carver G % oroughG G Rehoboth Dighton Berkley Eastham 51 Groton-Shirley Road, Ayer 01432, Lakeville G Seekonk G FIELD HEADQUARTERS G (978) 772-0693 t G Wareham Orleans rse Rochester e 100 Hartwell St., Suite 230 West Boylston 01583, Swansea m Freetown G So IG Brewster • Susan Langlois, Administrator L Dennis Marion (508) 389-6300 G Sandwich Fall River G th d Bourne u

cushnet Mattapoisett Harwich or o

• Dr. Robert D. Deblinger, Deputy Director, Field Operations A I BarnstableG Chatham WESTERN WILDLIFE DISTRICT New G Mashpee Yarm t Bedf Fairhaven I • Dr. Thomas W. French, Asst. Director, 88 Old Windsor Road, Dalton 01226, (413) 684-1646 % G tmouth

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Dar Falmouth Natural Heritage & Endangered Species • Andrew Madden, District Supervisor W G • John O'Leary, Asst. Director, Wildlife CONNECTICUT VALLEY WILDLIFE DISTRICT • Dr. Ken Simmons, Chief Fish Culturist Gosnold 341 East Street, Belchertown 01007, (413) 323-7632 y s isbur • Dr. Mark Tisa, Asst. Director, Fisheries T • Ralph Taylor, District Supervisor % West Oak BluŒ • Marion E. Larson, Chief, Information & Education Tisbury Edgar town Chilmar CENTRAL WILDLIFE DISTRICT HeadGa k BOSTON OFFICE y 211 Temple Street, West Boylston 01583, (508) 835-3607 251 Causeway Street, Ste. 400, Boston 02114, (617) 626-1590 • Bill Davis, District Supervisor Nantucket • Wayne F. MacCallum, Director • Jack Buckley, Deputy Director, Admin. NORTHEAST WILDLIFE DISTRICT • Kris McCarthy, Chief Financial Officer 85 Fitchburg Road, Ayer 01432, (978) 772-2145 • Craig MacDonnell, Chief of Wildlife Lands • Patricia Huckery, District Supervisor VISIT US AT www.mass.gov/masswildlife DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND GAME OFFICE SOUTHEAST WILDLIFE DISTRICT 251 Causeway Street, Ste. 400, Boston, 02114, (617) 626-1500 195 Bournedale Road, Buzzards Bay 02532, (508) 759-3406 QUESTIONS? • Mary Griffin, Commissioner • Jason Zimmer, District Supervisor Contact us at [email protected] Keystone Arches The Walnut Hill Wildlife Management Area not only conserves wildlife resources, but also conserves some remarkable construction of a unique and historic nature.

6 www.mass.gov/masswildlife MA Division of Fisheries & Wildlife Hidden deep in the hills along the West Hilltowns.” The physical geography of the Hill- Branch of the Westfield River stand two re- towns is characterized by steep, rounded hills markable testaments to engineering and bold separated by deep stream and river valleys. vision known as the Keystone Arches. Rising Rain events and high snowpack can produce 70 feet above the river, the arches are a must- incredible flows in the Upper Westfield, among see for historians and railroad enthusiasts, but the flashiest rivers in the Commonwealth, and also offer a wonderful diversion for all who en- over millions of years the flowing water has joy visiting the wilder places in Massachusetts. cut steep and winding courses. The Division of Fisheries and Wildlife’s (DFW) The economic incentive for westward railway land/habitat protection mission includes the expansion must have provided intense motiva- principle that all lands we manage will be open tion to attempt to cross this area, which by 19th for the public in perpetuity. It is, after all, the century standards was surely viewed as insur- public who truly owns them. Hunters, anglers, mountable terrain. Crossing the West Branch trappers, hikers, birders, and other outdoor through the towns of Chester, Becket, and recreationists can therefore capitalize on our Middlefield was likely the greatest part of this habitat protection efforts and freely access all challenge. Despite the logistical and physical of our wildlife properties. obstacles, however, the Keystone Arches were The Walnut Hill WMA was acquired to pro- completed by 1841, allowing passage along the Award-Winning tect the Westfield River and the surrounding historically important Western Railroad. upland habitat, but a wonderful side benefit of Major George Washington Whistler is cred- Taxidermy the acquisition is that it also provides the pub- ited with the design and implementation of lic with the ability to experience the Keystone the bold plan to extend the rail through the Arches. Anyone willing to do a little hiking Central Berkshires by spanning the West Shoulder Mounts · Lifesize can enjoy some truly spectacular examples of Branch of the Westfield River in multiple loca- architectural and railroad history set against tions. A compelling historical figure, Whistler Fish · Prime Birds the backdrop of one of Massachusetts’ most drew on his engineering education at West beautiful waterways. Point in his decision to utilize a keystone arch 802.368.7874 The Westfield watershed drains over 500 design to cross the river. Whistler and his team square miles, transitioning from the Berk- managed to make the cut and construct the shire’s eastern slopes to the Pioneer Val- arches in just 2½ years ­-- without the use of ley. The Upper Westfield consists of three dynamite! A major railroad figure in his day, 5825 Route 100 branches (West, East, and Middle) that flow through an area commonly referred to as “the (Continued on page 22) Whitingham, VT

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2014 Guide to Hunting, Fishing and Trapping 7 Licenses HUNTING, FRESHWATER FISHING, & TRAPPING LICENSES Licenses are valid from January 1 through December 31 (except for limited term licenses). Licenses, stamps and permits may be purchased on-line at www.mass.gov/massfishhunt. Licenses are also issued by DFW offices, some city and town clerks and other selected sporting outlets. personal computer, as vendor must verify the minor has a Consent Letter. To trap on the land of another, a minor must LICENSES ARE REQUIRED for all persons 15 years of age and over also have a trap registration number which requires proof of for hunting any bird or mammal; and/or for fishing the inland completion of a Trapper Education course from any U.S. state. waters of Massachusetts. Hunting or Sporting licenses for any- one aged 18 years or older can be purchased only if (1) proof RESIDENCY REQUIREMENT: To obtain a resident license, applicant of a previous hunting license issued prior to 2007 from any must reside in Massachusetts for six consecutive months jurisdiction is provided; (2) proof of a certificate of completion immediately prior to purchase. of a Basic Hunter Education course issued by any jurisdiction in North America is provided; or (3) an affidavit stating that NON-RESIDENTS: A valid Massachusetts non-resident license the applicant has either a Basic Hunter Education Certificate (hunting, fishing and trapping) is required of non-residents. or has purchased a Hunting/Sporting license prior to 2007 is A big game license (license Class H5) is required to hunt deer, provided. Minors see below. bear and wild turkey. For more information, see page 24. A hunting, fishing or trapping license is not a permit to trespass or intrude on private land, posted or not. Remember, TRAP REGISTRATION NUMBERS are required to trap on the land your privilege to enter on private land is a courtesy extended of another and may be obtained from the Permit Section, to you by the owner. Boston Office (617) 626-1575 after completing a Trapper No freshwater (inland) fishing license is required on the Education course from any U.S. state. Merrimack River seaward of the first upstream bridge (north- bound traffic) of Route 495 in Haverhill (Saltwater fishing FURBUYER LICENSES permit required.) A furbuyer is any person who buys or sells raw furs. A valid A trapping license is required for persons aged 12 years Massachusetts furbuyer license is required for any person and over. Please see additional information on trapping, who is receiving, buying, or bartering the raw pelts of wild pages 41-43. animals. This includes persons handling green pelts (pelts Hunting, fishing, sporting, and trapping licenses must be that have not been dried or tanned) or raw pelts (pelts, includ- carried on your person and shown on demand to any officer ing green pelts, which have been dried, fleshed or cured). A empowered to enforce these laws, and to landowners or lessees permit is not required if a skin or skins are purchased from a while on their property. Practice courtesy and leave a good licensed furbuyer, hunter, or trapper for the personal use of the impression if you want to continue hunting, fishing, or trapping. purchaser and not for sale. Licenses are valid from January 1 to December 31. Furbuyers MINORS 15–17 years of age must be licensed and have required receive a reporting book in which they must record transac- stamps and permits to hunt any bird or mammal. To obtain tions of pelts received as they occur. Log books must be open a hunting or sporting license, a minor must have a letter of to inspection by Environmental Police Officers (EPOs) or any consent from a parent or guardian and either a Basic Hunter agents of the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife (DFW) at any Education Certificate or a letter signed by a parent affirming reasonable time. that the minor will be accompanied by a person 18 years of Furbuyer annual report forms from record books must be age or older. Minor hunting and sporting licenses can only initialed by an EPO and submitted yearly to the Division be purchased from DFW offices or license vendors, not from no later than April 1. a personal computer, as vendor must verify the minor has a Applications for furbuyer licenses, or a listing of current Consent Letter and either a Basic Hunter Education Certificate furbuyers can be obtained by calling (617) 626-1575, or by or an "adult accompaniment" letter. Minors must carry their writing the Boston office of the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife. Hunter Education Certificate while hunting. If gun hunting, a Firearms Identification card (FID) is required. PERMITS Minors between 12 and 14 inclusive may hunt when ac- SPECIAL LICENSES OR PERMITS are necessary for possession or companied by a duly licensed adult, provided that a single release of certain fish, baitfish, wildlife, and for fur dealers, bag limit shall be observed and only one firearm/bow is propagators, wildlife rehabilitators, taxidermists, and/or fur possessed by the two. Only one minor per adult is permitted. No Firearms Identification (FID) card is needed by the minor. Minors 12–17 may obtain a trapping license. To obtain a trapping license a minor must have a letter of consent from A hunting license is required of anyone a parent or guardian. Minor trapping licenses can only be practicing falconry in Massachusetts. purchased from DFW offices or license vendors,not from a

8 www.mass.gov/masswildlife MA Division of Fisheries & Wildlife Licenses buyers. Apply to the DFW Boston office, Permit Section (617) 626-1575. Contact Field Headquarters at (508) 389-6300 about permits for crossbows, falconry, problem animal control, or shooting preserves.

AGRICULTURAL LANDOWNERS: If you own or lease land that is principally used for agriculture and you are domiciled on said Leanda Fontaine Gagnon land, then you do not need a hunting, fishing or trapping license to hunt, fish or license vendor or online computer. Fee MASSACHUSETTS WATERFOWL: ($5.00), trap on that land. Permits and stamps are is $5.00. Required of all waterfowl hunters aged 15 still required. and over. Stamp is not required for hunting TURKEY PERMIT: Required to hunt turkey. woodcock, snipe, American coot or rails. HUNTING PERMITS: Bear, turkey, and antler- Hunters may purchase this permit when less deer permits are not transferable. They purchasing their hunting/sporting license FEDERAL MIGRATORY GAME BIRD STAMP: may only be used by the hunter to whom or at any time prior to the end of the fall In addition to a hunting license and a they are issued. turkey season through any license vendor Massachusetts Waterfowl Stamp, any or online computer. Fee is $5.00. waterfowl hunter aged 16 or older, must ANTLERLESS DEER PERMIT: Required to have a Federal Migratory Bird Stamp. take an antlerless deer during archery, HARVEST INFORMATION PROGRAM (H.I.P.): These stamps are available at National shotgun, and muzzleloader seasons in Woodcock, rail, coot, snipe, and waterfowl Wildlife Refuges, at select offices of the all zones. The deadline to apply for an hunters must complete a Harvest Informa- U.S. Postal Service, by mail from the antlerless deer permit is July 16 and must tion Program (H.I.P.) survey when they U.S. Postal Service, or from select private be done through the MassFishHunt system, purchase their license and/or the Mas- vendors, or on-line at www.fws.gov/ through any license vendor, or online sachusetts waterfowl stamp through any duckstamps/Stamps.htm. via a computer. Only one application per license vendor or online computer. Once Federal Migratory Game Bird Stamps person. The application is free. Hunters the survey is completed, that fact is printed are available each year starting July 1 must return to the MassFishHunt system on the license, providing proof the survey and expire on the following June 30. (www.mass.gov/massfishhunt) to see has been completed. No H.I.P. number is if they were selected for an antlerless required, and the former phone survey is deer permit during the Instant Award no longer available. period (Aug. 1 – Dec. 31) and try to draw For a list of game an antlerless deer permit for the zone STAMPS check stations, visit for which they applied. Notification of ARCHERY: ($5.10), Required to hunt deer the DFW website at whether the applicant was successful during the archery season. www.mass.gov/masswildlife. will be instant. Selection is random and A list of furbearer check the odds of drawing a permit remain the PRIMITIVE FIREARMS: ($5.10), Required to stations is on page 42. same throughout the instant award period hunt deer during the primitive firearms (instant award permit issuance is NOT first- season. come-first-served). The odds of drawing a permit depend on the number of antlerless deer permits issued for a given zone and the number of hunters that applied for that zone. Successful applicants will be ST P THE SPREAD assessed a $5.00 fee and may print the of Nuisance Aquatic Plants and Animals permit immediately or at a later date. See website for information on how to purchase additional antlerless deer permits from Boaters, anglers, and other lake and river users are reminded that many zones where there were fewer applicants unwanted, invasive species can be transported and inadvertently introduced to new than the number of permits allocated. waters by hitchhiking undetected on your boat, trailer, motor, waders, diving equip- ment, and other fishing gear. Please drain your boat, motor, and live well(s); clean and decontaminate your boat, motor, trailer, ropes, and gear; and make sure your BEAR PERMIT: Required to hunt bear. equipment is thoroughly dry before entering any body of water. This is especially Hunters may purchase this permit when important if you have been boating in western Massachusetts, New York, Vermont purchasing their hunting/sporting license or Connecticut. For more information contact Massachusetts DCR Lakes and Ponds or at any time prior to the end of the second Program at (617) 626-1250 or www.mass.gov/lakesandponds. segment of the bear season through any

2014 Guide to Hunting, Fishing and Trapping 9 Licenses 2014 LICENSE, STAMP & PERMIT FEES NOTE: Fee for first resident license, and all non-resident licenses include a $5.00 fee for the Wildlands Conservation CLASS LICENSE FEE Stamp. Fee for second resident license in calendar year does not F1 Resident Fishing $27.50 include the $5.00 fee for the Wildlands Conservation Stamp. City and town clerks must add an additional one dollar ($1.00); F2 Resident Minor Fishing (Age 15–17) FREE and other sales agents may add up to an additional one dollar F3 Resident Fishing (Age 65–69) $16.25 and fifty cents ($1.50) service fee to the price of each license Resident Fishing (Age 70 or over F4 FREE sold. An additional service fee of $1.50 per license is applied to or paraplegic, blind, intellectually disabled) all licenses purchased through a sales agent. The same service F6 Non-resident Fishing 37.50 fee, plus an additional 3% internet handling charge on the F7 Non-resident Fishing (3 day) 23.50 total transaction, is applied to all online license purchases. There are no service fees or internet handling charges for F8 Resident Fishing (3 day) 12.50 licenses purchased at offices of the Division of Fisheries and F9 Non-resident Fishing (Age 15–17) 11.50 Wildlife, where only cash or checks are accepted. Quabbin One Day Fishing (Quabbin only) 5.00 F10 (sold by DCR and Connecticut Valley District only) H1 Resident Citizen Hunting 27.50 H2 Resident Citizen Hunting (Age 65–69) 16.25 Resident/Non-resident Hunting, Paraplegic FREE H3 (* restrictions apply) H4 Resident Alien Hunting 27.50 Non-resident Hunting, Big Game 99.50 H5 (Deer, Bear, Turkey and all other game species) Non-resident Hunting, Small Game 65.50 H6 (Small game only) Non-resident Commercial Shooting Preserve 10.00 H7 (1 day) H8 Resident Minor Hunting (Age 15–17) 11.50 H9 Resident Commercial Shooting Preserve (1 day) 10.00 S1 Resident Citizen Sporting 45.00

S2 Resident Citizen Sporting (Age 65–69) 25.00 Madison McCarthy, Onota Lake, Pittsfield Resident Citizen Sporting (Age 70 or over) FREE S3 (includes trapping) Got Lifejackets? From September 15 to May 15 all canoe or kayak occupants Resident/Non-Resident Paraplegic Sporting FREE S4 (*restrictions apply) MUST WEAR a U.S. Coast Guard T1 Resident Trapping 35.50 approved Personal Flotation Device. T2 Resident Minor Trapping (Age 12–17) 11.50 T3 Resident Trapping (Age 65-69) 20.25 M/N 1 Archery Stamp 5.10 SALTWATER FISHING PERMIT REQUIRED M/N 2 Waterfowl Stamp 5.00 Saltwater anglers in Massachusetts are required M/N 3 Primitive Firearms Stamp 5.10 to purchase a state recreational saltwater fishing permit. This state-issued permit takes the place W1 Wildlands Stamp, Resident 5.00 of a more expensive federal registration that W2 Wildlands Stamp, Non-resident 5.00 would otherwise be required. The fee for this Antlerless Deer Permit (when issued) 5.00 permit is $10 and is the same cost for all anglers, Bear Permit 5.00 including non-residents. Anglers younger than 16, or disabled, or who fish only on charter boats or Turkey Permit 5.00 "headboats" are exempt from this requirement. Trap Registration Number (Boston Office) 5.00 Anglers age 60 and older will need to obtain Trap Registration Number Renewal 5.00 a permit, but the saltwater permit is free. The (Boston Office) permit is available on-line, by mail, and in person Non-resident Trapping Permit 200.00 at Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries (Field Headquarters Office) offices in Gloucester, Boston, and New Bedford. Resident Furbuyer 30.00 For more information on the permit go to: Non-resident Citizen/Alien Furbuyer 90.00 www.mass.gov/marinefisheries. *Contact Boston DFW office for restrictions 10 www.mass.gov/masswildlife MA Division of Fisheries & Wildlife Bring your Hunting & Fishing Guide into Yankee Custom for exclusive deals on ACCESS® Covers and Accessories!

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DickDickDickDickDickDick """ """ CatchCatch the theCatch the theCatch Scorzafava'sScorzafava's Northeast'sNortheast's "Big"Big SeminarSeminar"Big SeminarSeminar"Big LargestLargest 'Pure' 'Pure' Give-Give-Give-AAA way!"way!"way!" TheTheThe Sportsmen'sSportsmen's Give-Give-Give-AAA way!"way!"way!" Show"Show"Show" Powderhorn Outfitters SpringfieldSpringfieldTheTheTheTheTheTheTheTheThe Show"Show"Show"Show"Show" 210 Barnstable Rd SpringfieldSpringfield Hyannis, MA 02601 SportsmenSportsmenSpringfieldSpringfieldSpringfieldSpringfieldSpringfield's's's (508) 775-8975 SportsmenSportsmenSportsmenSportsmenSportsmenShowShowShowTheTheThe 's's's's's's's's's Fax (508) 771-8856 ShowShowShow Mark Cohen, Proprietor SpringfieldSpringfieldFeb. ShowShowShow21-24,ShowShowShow 2013 SportsmenSportsmenSportsmenFeb.Feb.Feb. 20-23, 20-23,20-23, 2014 20142014 's's's's's's www.powderhornoutfitters.com Feb.Feb.Feb. 19-22, 19-22,19-22, 2015 20152015 • FISHING BAIT & TACKLE ShowShowShow Feb.Feb. 18-21,18-21,ShowShowShowShowShow 20162016 • GUNS & AMMO EasternFeb. 21-24, States Exposition 2013 EasternEastern StatesStates ExpositionExposition • ANTIQUE WEAPONS Feb.Home 20-23, of the "Big2014 E" Home of the Big E" • RELOADING EQUIPMENT W.Feb. Springfield, 19-22, 2015 MA • ARCHERY SUPPLIES W.W. Springfield,Springfield, MAMA • LAW ENFORCEMENT www.osegshowsosegshows.com 11 Fishing OPEN SEASON (All Dates Inclusive) DAILY CREEL MINIMUM LENGTH 1 TROUT 2 Lakes, ponds, major rivers 3, 5, 6 Jan. 1 – Dec. 31 3 — Housatonic River 4 Jan. 1 – Dec. 31 1 20" Apr. 1 – Sept. 10 8 All other rivers and brooks — Sept. 11 – Mar. 31, 2015 3 LAKE TROUT Wachusett Reservoir 6 (see note 6) 3 — Quabbin 6 (see note 6) 2 18" SALMON (landlocked) Jan. 1 – Dec. 31 2 15" SALMON (broodstock) 7 Jan. 1 – Dec. 31 2 15" AMERICAN SHAD 8 (Connecticut and Merrimack rivers and their tributaries) Jan. 1 – Dec. 31 3 — AMERICAN SHAD 8 (All other waters) Jan. 1 – Dec. 31 0 (C&R only) — CHAIN PICKEREL Jan. 1 – Dec. 31 5 15" BLACK BASS (Largemouth and Smallmouth, singly or combined): Jan. 1 – Dec. 31 5 12" NORTHERN PIKE Jan. 1 – Dec. 31 1 28" TIGER MUSKIE (Muskellunge) Jan. 1 – Dec. 31 1 28" WALLEYE Jan. 1 – Dec. 31 5 14" Jan. 1 – Feb. 28 SMELT 9 — — May 16 – Dec. 31 ALL OTHER FRESHWATER SPECIES Jan. 1 – Dec. 31 — — STRIPED BASS and HERRING: For season, size, and possession limits call the Division of Marine Fisheries at (617) 626-1520, or visit their website at www.mass.gov/marinefisheries. POSSESSION OF: Sturgeon (all species), American Brook Lamprey, Atlantic (sea-run) Salmon7, Bridle Shiner, Burbot, Eastern Silvery Minnow, Lake Chub, Longnose Sucker, and Northern Redbelly Dace is illegal! If caught, release immediately. This means remove hook or cut line and return fish to water immediately — do not pose for photographs, place on a stringer, hold in a net, or delay in any way the immediate return and release of these rare fish to the water!

1 Minimum length is measured as the straight line (not curved over its tributary streams within the Quabbin Reservation are closed to the body) from the tip of the snout to the tip of the tail. The tips of all fishing except during the open season as set by the Department any forked tail may be squeezed together for the final measurement. of Conservation and Recreation. The Wachusett/Sudbury/West Waushacum fishing season normally opens the first Saturday in 2 Trout applies to Brook, Brown, Rainbow, and Tiger Trout (a cross April and closes Nov. 30, but the DCR/DWSP may alter those dates between a female brown and a male brook trout). From Apr. 1 to Sept. depending on ice conditions. At Wachusett Reservoir, shoreline fishing 10, no more than 8 trout (as defined) may be taken daily, and only 3 only is allowed from Gate 6 on Route 70 to Gate 36 on Route 110. of those trout may be from lakes, ponds, or major rivers 3. From Sept. 11 to Mar. 31, no more than 3 trout (as defined) may be taken daily. 7 The harvest of broodstock salmon (Atlantic salmon) is lawful in all 3 Major Rivers: Childs, Coonamessett, Deerfield, Farmington, Green inland waters of Massachusetts (Colrain), Green (Great Barrington), Ipswich, Jones, Mashpee, Millers, except in: the Connecticut River Nissitissit, North (Colrain), North (West Branch), Parker, Quaboag, and all its tributaries; and the Quinapoxet, Quinebaug, Seven Mile, Santuit, Scorton Creek, Shawsheen, Merrimack River downstream ©Des Colhoun Squannacook, Stillwater (Sterling, Princeton), Swift (East Branch), of the Essex Dam and all its Swift (Winsor Dam to Ware River, except as posted), Tully (East and tributaries downstream of the Photo of floy tag in an Atlantic salmon. Color of tags may vary. West Branches), Ware, Ware (East Branch), Westfield (all branches). Essex Dam in Lawrence, MA. Only Atlantic salmon marked with a floy tag below the dorsal fin (see 4 Mainstem Housatonic only, from the confluence of the East and example in picture) may be harvested in the Merrimack River upstream West Branches to the MA–CT line, exclusive of the catch-and-release of the Essex Dam in Lawrence, MA and all of its tributaries upstream of areas where no trout may be kept. the Essex Dam. The possession of Atlantic salmon (including broodstock salmon) while fishing in the Connecticut River and all of its tributaries, 5 Special Brown Trout water: South Pond (Quacumquasit), Brookfield. and in the Merrimack River downstream of the Essex Dam and all its Total daily creel is 3 trout but only 1 may be a brown trout and it must tributaries downstream of the Essex Dam in Lawrence, MA, is prohibited. be at least 15". The possession of Atlantic salmon (including broodstock salmon) without a floy tag below the dorsal fin while fishing in the Merrimack River upstream 6 Quabbin and Wachusett Reservoirs: Opening and closing dates are set of the Essex Dam in Lawrence, MA is prohibited. by the Department of Conservation and Recreation. For Quabbin Reservoir visit www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/dcr/massparks/region-central/ 8 American Shad are Catch-and-Release ONLY on all waters except the quabbin-reservoir.html or call (413) 323-7221. For Wachusett / Sudbury Connecticut and Merrimack rivers and their tributaries. Reservoirs visit www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/dcr/water-res- protection/watershed-mgmt/wachusett-and-sudbury-reservoir- 9 Smelt may be taken by hook and line only. fishing-guide.html or call (508) 792-7806. Quabbin Reservoir and 12 www.mass.gov/masswildlife MA Division of Fisheries & Wildlife BAIT Permit required to take baitfish for purpose of sale; see Permits on page 8. Individuals trapping fish for personal LEAD FREE use as baitfish may use only one trap. Individuals trapping baitfish under a commercial license may use more than one trap. • Frogs (except leopard frogs) 2½ inches or less snout to vent Fish Safer. Fish lead free. may be used as bait; 10 daily, 10 in possession; may not be sold. • Baitfish may be taken by licensed anglers at any time We at Timmy Tom’s understand the needs for safer (except for purposes of sale) with a rectangular net not fi shing tackle. We only off er the highest quality exceeding 36 square feet of net area or by a hoop or cir- lead free jigheads. cular net not exceeding 6 feet in diameter or with a fish trap with openings not exceeding one inch. The following OUR PRODUCTS ARE AS FOLLOWS: species may be taken for personal use as bait by licensed anglers. Only the fish species listed below may be used • Ball Heads • Shakey Head as bait, live or dead. • Minnow Heads • Weighted American eel Banded killifish Bluntnose minnow • Barbed Ball Swimbait Hooks Creek chubsucker Emerald shiner Fallfish • Weedless • Tip Up Jigs Fathead minnow Golden shiner Mummichog Pumpkinseed Rainbow smelt* Yellow perch • Jiggle Jig Spottail shiner White sucker * Smelt may be taken only by hook and line. Possession or Timmy Tom’s Jig Co. use of smelt as bait in inland waters other than during 401 E. Forest St. the smelt season is prohibited. Huntington, AR 72940 MADE IN THE U.S.A.

• Herring: For current regulations on the use, possession, and WWW.TIMMYTOMS.COM taking of herring contact the Division of Marine Fisheries, (617) 626-1520 or www.mass.gov/marinefisheries.

CATCH-AND-RELEASE AREAS Artificial lures only. No bait in possession. • Housatonic River: From the Rte. 20 bridge in Lee downstream to Willow Mill Dam AND from Glendale Dam downstream to the RR bridge. No fishing from June 15—Aug. 31 inclusive within 100 feet of the mouths of posted tributaries: Beartown Brook; Goose Pond Brook; Hop Brook; and Mohawk Brook. • Red Brook: From the outlet of White Island Pond to the inlet of Buttermilk Bay. • Nissitissit River: From the New Hampshire border to the Prescott St. Bridge. FLY FISHING ONLY. • Swift River: Winsor Dam to Rte. 9, catch-and-release FLY FISHING ONLY (year-round); Rte. 9 to Cady Lane, catch- and-release July 1–Dec. 31 (artificial lures only). • Deerfield River: Fife Brook Dam to Hoosac Tunnel, and the section extending from Pelham Brook to the Mohawk Campground. • Westfield River, East Branch: Immediately below the Chesterfield Gorge parking lot in Chesterfield to the gate north of the Corps of Engineers parking lot at Knightville in Huntington. • Millers River: Templeton/Athol RR bridge to dam in Athol and from Wendell Rd. bridge in Orange to the breached dam in Erving center. • Quashnet River: From the outlet of John’s Pond to the sign 0.1 mile below Rte. 28.

2014 Guide to Hunting, Fishing and Trapping 13 Fishing FISH CONSUMPTION ADVISORIES The MA Dept. of Public Health (MDPH), has issued a statewide advisory for pregnant women, nursing mothers, women who SPEARS, BOW AND ARROWS may become pregnant, and children under 12 to refrain from May be used to take suckers, carp, and eels consuming fish caught in freshwater due to elevated levels only. Fishing license required. of mercury in fish. MDPH has also issued fish consumption advisories for the general public on selected bodies of water primarily due to PCB and mercury contamination. For more information or a list of waters with fish consumption advi- FISHING PROHIBITIONS sories, contact MDPH, Bureau of Environmental Health, at • Explosives (617) 624-5757 or www.mass.gov/dph. • Jug, toggle or trot line fishing. • Lead Sinkers, Lead Weights, and Lead Jigs Weighing Less Than an Ounce. Any sinker or weight made from lead FREE FISHING WEEKEND that weighs less than 1 ounce, and any lead jig (meaning any lead-weighted hook) that weighs less than 1 ounce, June 7 & 8, 2014 — No license needed! is prohibited for use in all inland waters of the Common- wealth. The term lead sinker shall not include any other sinkers, weights, fishing lures or fishing tackle including, but not limited to, artificial lures, hooks, weighted flies, INTERSTATE POND LICENSE REGULATIONS and lead-core or other weighted fishing lines. Wallum Lake, Douglas: Fishing permitted by persons duly • More than two hooks for fishing or more than five hooks licensed in Massachusetts or Rhode Island. Rhode Island when ice fishing. A hook is defined as an angling device regulations apply. attached to a fishing line that is designed to take one fish at a time but is not limited to devices commonly called Lake Monomonac and Robbins Pond, Winchendon; Long spinners, spoons, bait harnesses, lead head jigs, or plugs. Pond, Tyngsboro and Dracut; Bent Pond, Warwick; Tuxbury Pond, Amesbury: Fishing permitted by persons duly licensed in Massachusetts or New Hampshire. New Hampshire regu- lations apply.

Colebrook Reservoir, Tolland; Perry Pond, Dudley; Muddy Pond, Southbridge; Breakneck Pond, Sturbridge; Congam- ond Lake, Southwick; Hamilton Reservoir, Holland: Fishing permitted by persons duly licensed in Massachusetts or Con- necticut. Connecticut regulations apply to Colebrook Reservoir, Breakneck Pond, Perry Pond and Muddy Pond. Massachusetts regulations apply to Congamond Lake and Hamilton Reservoir.

Sherman Reservoir, Rowe: Massachusetts regulations apply and MA license required in MA. Vermont regulations apply and VT license required in VT.

MARINE FISHERIES

Massachusetts Dept. of Fish and Game Have any questions regarding saltwater fishing regulations? Call the Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries information hotline at (617) 626-1520 or visit www.mass.gov/marinefisheries or email [email protected]

14 www.mass.gov/masswildlife MA Division of Fisheries & Wildlife • Possession of: Sturgeon (all species), American Brook Lamprey, Atlantic (sea-run) Salmon, Bridle Shiner, Burbot, Eastern Silvery Minnow, Lake Chub, Longnose Sucker, and Northern Redbelly Dace is illegal! If caught, release im- mediately. This means remove hook or cut line and return fish to water immediately—do not pose for photographs, www.MassFirearmsSchool.com place on a stringer, hold in a net, or delay in any way the immediate return and release of the fish to the water. • Poisons THE LARGEST FIREARMS • Releasing fish or spawn into inland waters, except by permit. SCHOOL IN THE STATE • Rubbish in inland waters. FIREARMS TRAINING FOR THE GOOD GUYS™ • Sale of freshwater fish without a permit. • Snagging • Transporting live fish (except bait for personal use) INDOOR GUN RANGE without a permit. WITH MEMBERSHIP, GET FREE ACCESS TO OVER 100 FIREARMS

BOAT, ATV & SNOWMOBILE RETAIL STORE REGISTRATION INFORMATION LOWEST PRICES IN THE STATE (617) 626-1610 or www.mass.gov/ 00 BUCKSHOT $3.83/BOX eea/grants-and-tech-assistance/ 100 Kuniholm Drive · Holliston, MA · 01746 enforcement/environmental-police/ (800) 308-6212 · Email info@massfi rearmsschool.com

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2014 Guide to Hunting, Fishing and Trapping 15 Fishing FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS More than 80 kinds of fish live in the inland waters of the Commonwealth. Pictured is a small sample of some of the most popular species commonly taken by anglers. For a more complete list, pick up a copy of our brochure Freshwater Fishes of Massachusetts at any DFW office.

ATLANTIC SALMON TEMPERATURE PREFERENCES OF FISH Temperature preferences are different for many fish. Though The anadromous form of this species lives in the open ocean fish cannot always find their exact preference, they are usu- but ascends freshwater rivers to spawn. The landlocked form ally foundTemperature in water closest Preferences to their preferred of Fish temperature. lives in deep, cold, freshwater habitats and spawns in tributaries. Anadromous form grows to 20 lbs; landlocks average 2–4 lbs. 80 Landlocked populations occur in the Quabbin and Wachusett < Catfish Family Reservoirs. 75 < Bluegill / Pumpkinseed < Largemouth Bass 70 < Calico Bass (Crappies) < Esocids (Pike/Pickerel/Muskellunge), Smallmouth Bass 65 < Perch Family (Yellow Perch/Walleye) 60 < Brown Trout 55 < Landlocked Salmon, Rainbow/Brook Trout 50 SMALLMOUTH BASS < Lake Trout 45 Less common than largemouths, these cool-water gamefish are found in clear, rocky habitats. Average size is 1–2 lbs, but can reach up to 8 lbs. This species often jumps spectacularly when hooked.

LARGEMOUTH BASS BROOK TROUT A warm-water gamefish found in lakes, ponds and slow moving This beautiful native char thrives in clean, cold, well-oxygenated rivers associated with weeds and structure. Typically 1–3 lbs, waters. It is found in high gradient streams and coldwater beaver but can reach up to 15 lbs. Dark line along each side is a good flowages. Wild brookies average 6–8 inches, but stocked specimens identification mark. are typically 10–12 inches or larger. Considered by many to be the most beautiful fish in North America.

BROWN TROUT RAINBOW TROUT This trout thrives in heavy cover and deep pools of cold, well- These trout thrive in cold, well-oxygenated, fast moving water. oxygenated water. Typically stocked at 10–14 inches with larger Typical hatchery fish are 12–16 inches, with larger specimens to 20+ specimens to 20+ inches. Many wild populations exist in small inches. Profusely speckled and usually has a pink line along each side. to medium-size streams.

16 www.mass.gov/masswildlife MA Division of Fisheries & Wildlife Fishing

BROWN BULLHEAD CHAIN PICKEREL Our native “horned pout” catfish thrives in warm-water habitats A native cool-water gamefish found in shallow, vegetated areas associated with muddy bottoms and aquatic vegetation. Average of fairly clear lakes, ponds and rivers. Typically 15–20 inches but size is 8–12 inches, but larger ones are not uncommon. Handle larger specimens are not uncommon. Respected for its sharp teeth this fish (and all catfish) with care, as spines in the dorsal and which can easily cut most fishing lines and inflict minor wounds. pectoral fins can inflict painful wounds.

BLUEGILL PUMPKINSEED A sunfish that prefers shallow, weedy, warm-water habitats. A native sunfish, this pretty little “kivver” is found in weedy, warm- Typically 4–7 inches in length with larger specimens to 10 inches. water habitats. Most are 4–7 inches, but can get up to 8–9 inches. Identified by the solid black flap on gill cover and a dark patch Look for blue "warpaint" on the face and a red/orange-tipped near the back, bottom edge of the dorsal fin. gill flap. USFWS; Atlantic Salmon illustration by Ellen Edmondson. Ellen by illustration Salmon USFWS; Atlantic

/ YELLOW PERCH BLACK CRAPPIE A native cool-water panfish found in the vegetated areas of lakes, This "calico" sunfish is found in weedy, warm-water habitats. It ponds, slow streams, and almost any open water with moderate often forms schools in submerged structure, especially brush vegetation. Typically 8–10 inches but larger fish are not uncommon. piles and fallen trees. Typically 5–12 inches, but larger specimens A schooling fish, it is safe to assume that if you find one, there not uncommon. are others in the vicinity. Illustrations by Duane Raver Duane by Illustrations

2014 Guide to Hunting, Fishing and Trapping 17 Fishing FRESHWATER SPORTFISHING AWARDS Awards for freshwater fish are offered in 22 categories. Each Fish must meet minimum weight requirements listed below, qualified entry receives a bronze pin. Largest fish in each and must be weighed on any scale certified by the Massachu- category each year receives a “gold” pin and plaque. There is setts Division of Standards or a town official. Please check also an annual “Angler of the Year” award for the person who our website for a list of weigh stations and/or to download an has taken the greatest variety of “pinfish” during the year. affidavit. This information is also available at DFW offices.

CURRENT MINIMUM WEIGHTS SPECIES ADULT YOUTH Broodstock salmon 10 lbs. 0 ozs. 5 lbs. 0 ozs. Brook trout 2 lbs. 0 ozs. 1 lb. 0 ozs. Brown trout 4 lbs. 0 ozs. 2 lbs. 0 ozs. Bullhead 2 lbs. 0 ozs. 1 lb. 0 ozs. Carp 15 lbs. 0 ozs. 10 lbs. 0 ozs. Chain pickerel 4 lbs. 8 ozs. 3 lbs. 0 ozs. Channel catfish 6 lbs. 0 ozs. 5 lbs. 0 ozs. Crappie 1 lb. 8 ozs. 1 lb. 0 ozs. Lake trout 7 lbs. 0 ozs. 5 lbs. 0 ozs. Landlocked salmon1 4 lbs. 0 ozs. 3 lbs. 0 ozs. Largemouth bass 7 lbs. 0 ozs. 4 lbs. 0 ozs. Northern pike 15 lbs. 0 ozs. 10 lbs. 0 ozs. Rainbow trout 3 lbs. 0 ozs. 2 lbs. 0 ozs. Shad 5 lbs. 0 ozs. 3 lbs. 0 ozs. Smallmouth bass 4 lbs. 8 ozs. 3 lbs. 0 ozs. Sunfish2 0 lbs. 12 ozs. 0 lbs. 8 ozs. Tiger muskie 10 lbs. 0 ozs. 7 lbs. 0 ozs. Tiger trout 2 lbs. 0 ozs. 1 lb. 0 ozs. Walleye 4 lbs. 0 ozs. 2 lbs. 0 ozs. White catfish 4 lbs. 0 ozs. 2 lbs. 0 ozs. White perch 1 lb. 8 ozs. 1 lb. 0 ozs. Yellow perch 1 lb. 8 ozs. 1 lb. 0 ozs. 1 Landlocked Salmon are recognized only from Quabbin and Wachusett Reservoirs. 2 Sunfish category includes bluegills, pumpkinseeds, redbreast sunfish, green, and rock bass.

MASSACHUSETTS FRESHWATER SPORTFISHING RECORDS SPECIES WEIGHT WATER YEAR American shad 11 lbs. 4 ozs. Connecticut River 1986 Broodstock salmon 22 lbs. 15 ozs. Lake Mattawa, Orange 1997 Brook trout 10 lbs. 0 ozs. Ashfield Lake, Ashfield 2008 Brown trout 19 lbs. 10 ozs. Wachusett Reservoir 1966 Bullhead 6 lbs. 4 ozs. Forest Lake, Methuen 2008 Carp 46 lbs. 5 ozs. Quinsigamond Lake, Shrewsbury 2012 Chain pickerel 9 lbs. 5 ozs. Laurel Lake, Lee 1954 Channel catfish 26 lbs. 8 ozs. Ashfield Lake, Ashfield 1989 Crappie 4 lbs. 10 ozs. Jake’s Pond, Plymouth 1980 Lake trout 24 lbs. 0 ozs. Wachusett Reservoir 2004 Landlocked salmon 10 lbs. 2 ozs. Wachusett Reservoir 1985 Largemouth bass 15 lbs. 8 ozs. Sampson Pond, Carver 1975 Northern pike 35 lbs. 0 ozs. Quacumquasit Pond, Brookfield 1988 Rainbow trout 13 lbs. 13 ozs. Wachusett Reservoir 1999 Smallmouth bass 8 lbs. 2 ozs. Wachusett Reservoir 1991 Sunfish 2 lbs. 1 ozs. South Athol Pond, Athol 1982 Tiger muskellunge 27 lbs. 0 ozs. Lake Pontoosuc, Pittsfield 2001 Tiger trout 9 lbs. 7 ozs. Peter’s Pond, Sandwich 2004 Walleye 11 lbs. 0 ozs. Quabbin Reservoir 1973 White catfish 9 lbs. 3 ozs. Baddacook Pond, Groton 1987 White perch 3 lbs. 5 ozs. Wachusett Reservoir 1994 Yellow perch 2 lbs. 12 ozs. South Watuppa Pond, Fall River 1979

18 www.mass.gov/masswildlife MA Division of Fisheries & Wildlife Fishing 2012 FRESHWATER SPORTFISHING AWARD PROGRAM YOUTH GOLD PIN WINNERS SPECIES WEIGHT WATER NAME Broodstock salmon NA NA NA Brook trout 2 lbs. 12 ozs. Sheep Pond, Brewster Chad Avery, Brewster Brown trout 8 lbs. 8 ozs. Peters Pond, Sandwich Jake Souza, Berkley Bullhead 2 lbs. 12 ozs. Crystal Lake, Orleans Colin Wright, Shrewsbury Carp 26 lbs. 7 ozs. Merrimack River, Haverhill Chase Anestis, Boxborough Chain pickerel 5 lbs. 0 ozs. Herring Pond, Eastham Ernie Largey, Eastham Channel catfish 10 lbs. 12 ozs. Connecticut River, Northampton Matthew Nowak, Southampton Crappie 2 lbs. 0 ozs. Webster Lake, Webster Tony Yeulenski, Webster Lake trout 5 lbs. 10 ozs. Quabbin Reservoir Hunter Karas, Honolulu, HI Landlocked salmon 4 lbs. 8 ozs. Quabbin Reservoir John Hannam, Rutland Largemouth bass 9 lbs. 7 ozs. Big Sandy Pond, Plymouth Jake Souza, Berkley Northern pike 18 lbs. 5 ozs. Quaboag Pond, Brookfield Brandon Mason, Spencer Rainbow trout 5 lbs. 12 ozs. Great South Pond, Plymouth Morgan Harvey, Plymouth Shad 3 lbs. 15 ozs. Connecticut River, Hadley Andrew Rogalski, Bondsville Smallmouth bass 5 lbs. 0 ozs. Quabbin Reservoir Alexis Danault, Ware Sunfish 1 lbs. 3 ozs. Coonamessett Pond, Falmouth Thomas McAuley, East Falmouth Sunfish 1 lbs. 3 ozs. Mill Pond, Falmouth Aidan Webb, East Falmouth Sunfish 1 lbs. 3 ozs. Jenkins Pond, Falmouth Dylan Ruzzo, East Falmouth Tiger muskie NA NA NA Tiger trout 2 lbs. 3 ozs. Quacumquasit Pond, Brookfield Matthew Menard, Brookfield Walleye 2 lbs. 6 ozs. Connecticut River, Montague Trevor Lapinski, Montague White catfish 3 lbs. 7 ozs. Concord River, Concord Chase Anestis, Boxborough White perch 2 lbs. 8 ozs. Quabbin Reservoir Sophie Putnam, Athol Yellow perch 1 lbs. 8 ozs. Lower Naukeag Lake, Ashburnham Jac Carrigan, Ashburnham 2012 FRESHWATER SPORTFISHING AWARD PROGRAM ADULT GOLD PIN WINNERS SPECIES WEIGHT WATER NAME Broodstock salmon 15 lbs. 4 ozs. Comet Pond, Hubbardston Juan Cornejo, Boylston Brook trout 3 lbs. 11 ozs. Cliff Pond, Brewster James Tremper, North Eastham Brown trout 11 lbs. 11 ozs. White Pond, Concord Kenneth Brown, North Billerica Bullhead 2 lbs. 5 ozs. Mashpee-Wakeby Pond, Mashpee Eddie Lemieux, Acushnet Carp* 46 lbs. 5 ozs. Quinsigamond Lake, Shrewsbury Shane Felch, Shrewsbury Chain pickerel 6 lbs. 2 ozs. Charles River, Waltham Raymond Scichilone, III, Newton Channel catfish 24 lbs. 10 ozs. Nine Mile Pond, Wilbraham Mark Bailey, Wilbraham Crappie 2 lbs. 12 ozs. Webster Lake, Webster Jason VanHillo, Winchendon Lake trout 17 lbs. 11 ozs. Wachusett Reservoir, W. Boylston Paul Piergallini, West Boylston Landlocked salmon 5 lbs. 12 ozs. Quabbin Reservoir Carl Hewitt, Sterling Largemouth bass 10 lbs. 5 ozs. Marys Pond, Rochester William Souza, Somerset Northern pike 25 lbs. 12 ozs. Quaboag Pond, Brookfield Kevin DeSanto, Holland Rainbow trout 5 lbs. 4 ozs. Carbuncle Pond, Oxford Philip LeBlanc, N. Grosvenordale, CT Shad 6 lbs. 0 ozs. Merrimack River, Lawrence Roger Aziz, Jr., Methuen Smallmouth bass 6 lbs. 6 ozs. Quabbin Reservoir Todd Matera, Palmer Sunfish 1 lbs. 2 ozs. Hinkleys Pond, Harwich David Terrill, Dennisport Tiger muskie 18 lbs. 3 ozs. Pontoosuc Lake, Pittsfield Lou Baker, Lanesborough Tiger trout 2 lbs. 15 ozs. Cochituate Lake, Framingham Stephan Potter, Framingham Walleye 10 lbs. 0 ozs. Connecticut River, Northampton Francis Koske, Holyoke White catfish 7 lbs. 10 ozs. Mashpee-Wakeby Pond, Mashpee Eddie Lemieux, Acushnet White perch 2 lbs. 9 ozs. Wachusett Reservoir, W. Boylston Howie Turcotte, North Oxford Yellow perch 1 lbs. 15 ozs. Demond Pond, Rutland Matthew Power, Rutland * New state record

NATURAL SHORELINES ARE GOOD FOR FISHING By keeping shorelines natural, you can help protect water quality and improve fish habitat. A shoreline without trees and shrubs can get washed away, making the water muddy and unsuitable for fish. If you live near a lake or a river, plant a buffer strip along the water’s edge using trees, shrubs, wildflowers or other native plants. Trees and other vegetation filter pollution and provide shade, shelter, habitat, and food critical for bass, trout, and other fish to thrive and reproduce. Keep your favorite fishing spots well vegetated! For more tips and information, visit: http://water.epa.gov/type/lakes/index.cfm

2014 Guide to Hunting, Fishing and Trapping 19 A Sportsmen’s Guide to Bay State Frogs & Toads

Sportsmen and other outdoor enthusiasts other; pretty much any living thing they can the species, they may metamorphose into commonly encounter and/or hear frogs and manage to stuff into their large mouths. miniature adults in as little as a few weeks to toads while fishing, hunting, and hiking, yet All of our frogs and toads lay their eggs in as long as a few years. few realize there are 10 different species that water while in a breeding posture called Many of our frogs are explosive breeders, live in the Commonwealth. Considering that amplexis (male on the back of the female, meaning the entire local population comes there are more than 5,000 species worldwide, grasping her with his front legs) and their eggs together, usually in the spring, to mate and lay our native contingent of frogs and toads might are fertilized externally as they are extruded. their eggs all at once in a short period of time. not sound very impressive, but they vary from Toads lay their eggs in gelatinous strings, while These species typically use vernal pools or less than an inch long to 8 inches long; range frogs may lay them singly, in globular masses, other shallow wetlands for breeding, and their from highly aquatic, to terrestrial, to even or in large floating mats. The eggs hatch into males call in a “breeding chorus” that provides arboreal and fossorial in their habits; and tadpoles, or “pollywogs” in the New England an auditory beacon for other members of the all have breeding calls as distinct as those of vernacular, that breathe through internal population. Their tadpoles metamorphose in birds. It is not difficult learn how to recognize gills and have a globular body equipped a matter of weeks or months. Other species, all of them by sight and sound; knowledge with a muscular tail. Tadpoles are largely like our familiar green frog and bullfrog, have that will add to the enjoyment of any form of herbivorous, rasping plant leaves and algae or relatively long breeding seasons, may call for a outdoor recreation. simply filter-feeding on microscopic plankton, month or more, and typically use permanent All adult frogs and toads breathe air with but many will scavenge on amphibian and wetlands for breeding. Their young may lungs and are strict carnivores, preying fish carcasses if available. Depending on remain tadpoles for 2 or more years. mostly on invertebrates. They are voracious If you encounter a listed (rare) species, please take a clear photograph of the animal, note the predators, however, and the larger examples exact location, then go to www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/dfg/dfw/natural-heritage/species- are known to consume animals as large as information-and-conservation/report-rare-species/ to officially report the sighting. mice, small snakes, birds, turtles, and each

Photo © Bill Byrne Photo © Bill Byrne Photo © Bill Byrne Eastern Spadefoot* Wood Frog Gray Treefrog Scaphiopus holbrookii Lithobates sylvaticus Hyla versicolor This smallish, nocturnal toad is associated with sandy This terrestrial, mid-sized, cold-tolerant frog varies in This smallish frog is equipped with suction-cup toe pitch pine and scrub oak habitats. Nocturnal; spends color from lavender to light or dark brown, but is eas- pads. Highly arboreal and heat tolerant, it spends most of its time in a concealed burrow. Identified by ily identified by its mask: a dark patch on each side much of its time in trees. Chameleon-like abilities its peculiar vertical pupils and a hard, black “spade” of the head extending from eye to back edge of jaw. make it a master of camouflage, but inner surfac- on the underside of each rear foot. Breeds explosively Breeds explosively in vernal pools in the early spring. es of back legs are always orange or bright yellow. in ephemeral pools following days of heavy rain. Call is very duck-like. Found almost statewide. Found almost statewide. Call is a bird-like trill.

Photo © Bill Byrne Photo © Bill Byrne Photo © Bill Byrne Spring Peeper Green Frog American Bullfrog Pseudacris crucifer Lithobates clamitans Lithobates catesbeianus This tiny, 1-inch frog (shown calling here) varies from This is probably our most common and adaptable Common statewide, this large frog can be found in tan to olive-brown and typically displays a darker, ir- frog, found in virtually all wetland habitats from lakes to most permanent wetlands. Color is usually bright to regular, X-shaped pattern on its back. Breeds explo- streams to backyard goldfish ponds. Calls are similar yellowish/brownish green, often with dark mottling. sively in the spring; call is a high-pitched whistle re- to the low twanging of a loose guitar string. Color may Bellowing “jug’o’rum” calls are a familiar sound of peated every other second. A breeding chorus sounds vary from bright green to bronze. A dorsolateral ridge summer nights. Absence of dorsolateral ridges on like sleigh bells from a distance. Found statewide. (raised fold of skin) runs down each side of the back. each side of back distinguish it from the Green Frog.

All species marked with an asterisk (*) are fully protected and may not be killed, collected, or held in possession without a permit.

20 www.mass.gov/masswildlife MA Division of Fisheries & Wildlife 16 Federal St. • Belchertown, MA • 01007 Pickerel Frog A Sportsmen’s Guide to Bay State Frogs & Toads Lithobates palustris This medium-sized, spotted frog has a giraffe-like pattern of brown, R&R irregular or rectangular spots on a brown or tan background. A bright yellow or orange wash suffuses the undersides of the lower belly Sport Shop and rear legs. No green coloration at all. Sometimes referred to as the “grass frog” because it is often found in wet meadows, tussock swamps, and damp field habitats. The unique eggs resemble dense clusters of golden berries. Breed- ing call is a relatively soft, repe- titious, sonorous croak. Found Photo © Bill Byrne statewide. Toxic to other frogs.

Northern Leopard Frog* Lithobates pipiens  Guns Bought/Sold/Traded Of our two spotted-pattern frogs,  Complete Archery Line this is the less common species.  Fishing Equipment It has a scattered distribution that  Hunting Supplies does not include Cape Cod or the  Clothing & Footwear islands. Partially terrestrial and typ-  GameSpace Check Station ically associated with river flood-  Three Floors plain habitats. Spots are irregular,  Over 5,000 Square Ft. roundish, or oval on a background for of brilliant green or light brown. There is almost always some green Call us at 413.323.6785 or visit us online at present in the pattern, and no yel- Ads low or orange on belly or undersides www.randrsportshop.net of legs. Breeding call is low and so- norous, a sharp knocking that lasts about 3 seconds. Makes powerful, highly erratic leaps when pursued. Photo © Bill Byrne

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Photo © Bill Byrne Photo © Bill Byrne American Toad Fowler’s Toad Anaxyrus americanus Anaxyrus fowleri Our most common and familiar “hop-toad” is highly This toad is associated with sandy habitats and typi- variable in color, ranging from pale olive/tan to brick cally displays a high-contrast pattern of dark, irregu- red, even black. If spots are present on back, no lar blotches on a lighter background. Most blotches Capt. David Bitters, U.S.C.G. Licensed more than 2 large warts per spot. Call is a long, mu- contain 3 or more large warts. Call is a nasal bleat P.O. Box 366 · Duxbury, MA · 02331 · [email protected] sical trill. Found statewide except Nantucket County. lasting 2-4 seconds. Not found in Berkshire County (781) 934-2838 · BaymenCharters.com

2014 Guide to Hunting, Fishing and Trapping 21 waters of 1927 destroyed three of the arches. The remaining bridges that have survived for more than 170 years over the fast-flowing Westfield River are a credit to the engineers, craftsmen, and laborers who built them. The most impressive of the arches are the two abandoned bridges on the Walnut Hill WMA. Rather than standing in defiance of nature, these bridges seem to blend into the valley walls and give the impression of being almost a natural part of the landscape. The DFW acquired the land now known as the Walnut Hill Wildlife Management Area in 1987, with a primary conservation and recreational focus on the river. The longest free-flowing stretch of river in the entire Com- monwealth, the West Branch and its tributar- ies are home to reproducing trout and other coldwater fish species. The WMA contributes to an area which comprises one of the larg- est roadless tracts in the state and supports abundant populations of turkey, bear, moose, and deer, as well as habitat for several rare and endangered species. Semi-aquatic mam- mals such as river otter and mink frequent the valley bottoms. Each spring we stock the river with thousands of trout, and the deep pools beneath the arches provide cool water, helping to sustain trout through the dry, warm summer months. This great fishing resource, set against the spectacular backdrop of the Keystone Arches, provides one of the most rewarding coldwater fishing experiences to be found anywhere in the Commonwealth. The West Branch of the Westfield River is a superb coldwater resource and the longest stretch of Strong advocacy from groups such as the free-flowing river in the Commonwealth. Friends of the Keystone Arches and the West- field River Wild and Scenic Advisory Com- mittee have brought public attention to the (Continued from page 7) field River represent the largest cluster of such bridges. Currently listed on the Register of arches in the country, and remain some of the Historic Places, efforts are underway to nomi- Whistler went on to design rail lines through- oldest keystone rail arches in the nation. The nate the arches for designation as a National out the world before his death in Russia at the bridges are dry laid, meaning that no mortar Historic Landmark, a designation that would age of 49. Whistler was surpassed in fame by was used in their construction. The weight further raise their profile. Advocates hope his son, painter James McNeill Whistler, best of the stone and the shape of the arch give that funding opportunities will arise from this remembered for a painting of his mother titled the bridges their structural integrity. Using recognition because, despite the incredible Arrangement in Gray and Black No. 1 (and bet- primarily local Chester granite, the stonework construction of the arches, restoration actions ter known as Whistler’s Mother), but it seems was cut and laid by the Birnie Brothers, stone will likely be necessary to ensure their contin- likely that the senior Whistler’s monumental masons of Stockbridge, Mass. The original rail ued integrity. Attempts to begin restoration works in stone will eventually outlast the son’s line had 10 bridges crossing the Westfield. In actions have been made over the years, but works in oil on canvas. 1910 the line was rerouted to accommodate funding and access complications have, so far, The keystone arch design dates back to Ro- modern locomotives, leaving many of the always derailed such efforts. man times. The bridges over the Upper West- bridges unused and abandoned. The flood- Recognizing the historical and cultural sig- nificance of the arches, the DFW has allowed the development of the Keystone Arch Bridge Protected Wildlife Lands by District (acres) (KAB) Trail, with walking path and informa- tional signage to educate visitors about the Western Valley Central Northeast Southeast TOTAL bridges. The property is first and foremost WMA 44,170.92 17,997.38 35,069.39 12,456.47 41,156.77 150,850.93 a Wildlife Management Area, however, so visitors should expect a primitive setting. WCE 16,116.52 7,757.03 8,187.84 2,017.83 10,528.17 44,607.39 This further enhances the effect when one Access 31.7 356.94 1,045.55 234.44 54.15 1,722.78 encounters the first arch. DFW’s land mission to protect wildlife habitat has been remark- Sanctuary 435 0 367.91 552.48 73 1,428.39 ably successful, conserving tens of thousands WCR 69.4 0 346.21 127 37.9 580.51 of acres to protect the biodiversity of our state and the rights of hunters, anglers, and other Installation 2.35 512.22 0 107.82 114.36 736.75 passive recreationists to enjoy the outdoors. At Walnut Hill WMA the land comes with a Other 0 143.09 0 371.7 0 514.79 spectacular added benefit, which is sure to TOTAL 60,825.89 26,766.66 45,016.9 15,867.74 51,964.35 200,441.54 be appreciated by all who visit.

22 www.mass.gov/masswildlife MA Division of Fisheries & Wildlife Summary of Hunting Season Dates For further information regarding specific bag, possession, and season limits SPORTSMANʼS please visit the pages noted in the table below. CABINS OPEN SEASON (All Dates Inclusive) BLACK BEAR See page 31 for limit information Sept. 2 – Sept. 20 Black Bear Zones 1-9 Nov. 3 – Nov. 22 Bear hunting closed during shotgun deer season. UPLAND GAME BIRDS* See page 32 for limit information Spring: Zones 1–13 Apr. 28 – May 24 Fall: Zones 1–13 Oct. 20 – Nov. 1 Wild Turkey Youth Hunt: Zones April 26 (special restrictions 1-13 apply**) Jan. 1 – Apr. 10 Crow Jul. 2 – Apr. 10, 2015 Oct. 18 – Nov. 29 Pheasant Youth Hunt See page 46. Quail Zones 11–14 only Oct. 18 – Nov. 29 Ruffed Grouse Oct. 18 – Nov. 29 Upland game bird hunting is closed during shotgun deer season. * Migratory game birds (includes waterfowl, woodcock, snipe, rails): Seasons set annually. see Migratory Game Bird Abstract posted in late August. ** Must have completed the youth turkey hunt program (page 46). 6 SIZES AVAILABLE DEER See page 34 for limit information Dealers Wanted Archery Oct. 20 – Nov. 29 205-625-5473 Deer Shotgun Dec. 1 – Dec. 13 Primitive Firearms Dec. 15 – Dec. 31 www.brockshuntincabins.com

RABBITS & SQUIRRELS See page 38 for limit information Jan. 1 – Feb. 28 Zones 1-12 Cottontail Oct. 18 – Feb. 28, 2015 Rabbit Jan. 1 – Feb. 28 Zones 13 and 14 Nov. 15 – Feb. 28, 2015 Jan. 1 – Feb. 28 Zones 1–4 Oct. 18 – Feb. 28, 2015 Jan. 1 – Feb. 5 Snowshoe Hare Zones 5–12 Oct. 18 – Feb. 5, 2015 Jan. 1 – Feb. 5 Zones 13 and 14 Nov. 15 – Feb. 5, 2015 Jackrabbit Zone 14 Nov. 15 – Dec. 31 Zones 1–9 Sept. 8 – Jan. 2, 2015 Gray Squirrel Zones 10–14 Oct. 18 – Jan. 2, 2015 Rabbit, jackrabbit, hare, and squirrel hunting are closed during shotgun deer season.

REPTILES & AMPHIBIANS See page 39 for limit information Bullfrog and Green Frog Jul. 16 – Sept. 30 Snapping Turtle Jan. 1 – Dec. 31 FURBEARERS See page 40 for limit information Jan. 1 – Mar. 8 Guided Hunts for Bobcat Zones 1-8 Dec. 20 – Mar. 7, 2015 Pheasant, Partridge & Quail Jan. 1 – Mar. 8 Coyote Oct. 18 – Mar. 7, 2015 Sunday Hunting Available Jan. 1 – Feb. 28 Fox (red or gray) Nov. 1 – Feb. 28, 2015 Jan. 1 – Jan. 31 Raccoon Oct. 1 – Jan. 31, 2015 860.923.2978 Jan. 1 – Jan. 31 www.UplandPreserve.com Opossum Oct. 1 – Jan. 31, 2015

72 Chandler SChool road • WoodStoCk, Ct • 06281 2014 Guide to Hunting, Fishing and Trapping 23 Hunting GENERAL HUNTING REGULATIONS ACCIDENTS: All hunting-related injuries or deaths MUST be reported to state or local police and to the Environmental Police.

ARCHERY: Poisoned arrows, or explosive tips, or bows drawn by mechanical means, except for crossbows as permitted, are prohibited. Mechanical releases are permitted. Arrows and blank cartridges are used or possessed. No sporting or used on deer, bear or turkey must have well-sharpened steel hunting license is necessary. During the shotgun deer season, broadhead blades not less than ⅞ inches in width. Expanding dogs may be used for waterfowl hunting on coastal waters broadheads are legal for deer, bear, and turkey hunting. All only. Hunting bear or bobcat with dogs, or training dogs on bows, except permitted crossbows, used for hunting (recurve, those species, is prohibited. long, and compound) must have a draw weight of at least 40 lbs. at 28 inches or at peak draw. No arrows may be released TREE STANDS: Must have written permission of the landowner within 150 feet of, or across, any state or hard-surfaced (on either public or private lands) to construct or use any highway, and hunting is prohibited within 500 feet of any tree stand which is fastened to a tree by nails, bolts, wire, or dwelling or building in use, unless authorized by the owner other fasteners that intrude through the bark into the wood or occupant thereof. of the tree, or that is fastened or erected in any manner and A firearms license (FID or LTC card) is not required for is emplaced for a period exceeding 30 days. This includes bowhunting. Archers shall not possess firearms on their lock-on tree stands. person or use dogs while hunting deer. (See deer regula- tions on page 34.) Archers may hunt with a bow and arrow during the shotgun and muzzleloader deer seasons, but must comply with all regulations of those seasons, NON-RESIDENT HUNTERS: including the hunter orange and Primitive Firearms • Must have proof of a Basic Hunter Education Stamp requirements. Crossbows may be used by certain course certificate or previous license permanently disabled persons by permit only. For regula- from any jurisdiction in order to purchase tions and an application, visit www.mass.gov/masswildlife a Massachusetts hunting license. Non- or contact DFW at (508) 389-6300. resident minors (ages 15–17), see MINORS, page 8. Each license includes a $5.00 HUNTER ORANGE: No person shall hunt during the pheasant charge for a Wildland Conservation Stamp. or quail season on public shooting grounds or WMAs where pheasant or quail are stocked without wearing a “hunter • Must have a valid Massachusetts non- orange” cap or hat except while night-hunting for raccoons resident hunting license in order to hunt. or opossums, or while hunting waterfowl from a blind or • Must obtain the same stamps and permits boat. During the period when it is legal to hunt deer with as residents. Permit and stamp fees are a shotgun, all hunters, except waterfowl hunters hunting the same for residents and non-residents. within a blind or from a boat, must wear, in a conspicuous manner on chest, back, and head, a minimum of 500 square Non-resident migratory game bird inches of “hunter orange” clothing or material. During the hunters must complete a Massachusetts muzzleloader season, all deer hunters must comply with the H.I.P. survey to hunt. 500 sq. inch hunter orange requirement. • May not purchase ammunition in Massachusetts (including materials used HUNTING DOGS: May be trained at any time (except during the in black powder firearms). shotgun season on deer) provided that only pistols or revolvers • Must have their firearms unloaded and enclosed in a case while travelling into or FEDERAL WILDLIFE through Massachusetts. LAW INFORMATION • No gun license (FID) is needed to possess or transport long guns. Please note that fishing and hunting laws on • Must contact the Massachusetts Criminal federal parks, refuges, and reservations, History Systems Board (CHSB) Firearms such as those controlled by U.S. Fish Support Services, 200 Arlington St., Suite & Wildlife Service or the National Park 2200, Chelsea, MA 02150, tel. (617) 660-4780 Service, may differ from state regulations. for information on handgun permits. Contact the agency in question.

24 www.mass.gov/masswildlife MA Division of Fisheries & Wildlife Hunting WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREA REGULATIONS raccoons and opossums between 9pm and 3am, or except The Division of Fisheries & Wildlife owns 212 Wildlife Manage- for the shooting of captured fur-bearing mammals by a ment Areas (WMAs), 103 Wildlife Conservation Easements, licensed trapper. and 68 Access areas open to hunting, fishing and trapping. 10 No person shall hunt before sunrise or after sunset on any Maps are available for many of these properties on the DFW WMA where pheasant or quail are stocked during the open website and at all DFW offices. season on pheasant or quail, except for the hunting of rac- coons and opossums between 9pm and 3am. 1 No person shall possess any alcoholic beverage except un- der permit, or dump or discard any can, bottle, or rubbish. 11 No person shall hunt during the pheasant or quail season on WMAs where pheasant or quail are stocked without 2 No person shall remove vegetation, soil, or stones from wearing a ”hunter orange“ cap or hat except while night any WMA except under permit. hunting for raccoons or opossums or while hunting wa- 3 No person shall use excessive speed in driving a vehicle. terfowl from within a blind or boat. 4 No person, unless under permit, shall drive or possess any 12 No person, except under permit, shall dig or disturb any vehicle except on roads or trails maintained for public artifact or archaeological remains. vehicular traffic. 13 The Director may make special regulations to handle 5 No person shall deface or tamper with any sign, build- special situations peculiar to any WMA. Controlled hunts ing, or equipment. are in effect at certain times on Martin Burns, Delaney, 6 No person shall build or maintain a fire without written and Ludlow WMAs. Contact District Supervisor for details. permission from the Director of the DFW or his designee. 7 No person shall camp within any WMA without written permission from the Director or his designee. YOUTH & WOMEN HUNTERS 8 No person shall engage in target practice without written permission from the Director or his designee. For special outdoor skills education opportunities for youth and women hunters, 9 No person shall use any means other than shotgun or bow and arrow during the pheasant and quail season on see page 46. areas stocked with pheasant or quail except for hunting

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2014 Guide to Hunting, Fishing and Trapping 25

Zero Winter Street Weymouth, MA 02188 y r S u al M b isb e s u m r e ry ri m N a - e Wildlife Management Zones c A w p b st y o u r rt ry e u - W b w Haverhill e ry - N bu e w v d o Ne n r n e la n Clarksburg Monroe u G w B h y L e No t George- le to e r e - Rowe y n w e town w North a M c o d rd r n a No R ms a Colrain s t o L n A B a id e t h Warwick Royalston d Ashby e n o i Adams r n o Dunstable r r x ll lo n f n Townsend «¬3 Dracut d t f Ipswich i F Heath i e m gh h o e h ha Pepperell ou o rd Rock- W l c rn «¬31 r v «¬8 d n bu bo e e i h s C Andover ld x po e d g As ng Te r e rt w Adams Charlemont n l n W y h Lowell w fi e e rd r ie Gill g L T e k M s Ham s N o u f ng a r s id Gloucester hf b n rvi r T u lm b dl p W ilto s s l e E u n Groton W u et o e n E A Savoy e e O Athol e r r e s ¬ r on T nha b «4 y m h r m e f n h Buckland S G e e n y s o Nort an- Hawley M t h o M «¬ p n b e t t r k 2A r te s l s Cheshire o l 5 d c u f d g ing he o d c r c n Wendell e r n t n Rea Danve Ph i rs t i r r i L Beverly o t o g d y ¬112 a F h Ayer lm c « Ga i mi n g l n L Billerica i g P 2 t S d l n n l u i it W n e p s tl i f ab a e e e i La i New s e d t ad e o ne n f t Leominster r o d m H sbo Windsor o r n Carlisle e ld y ro o r W - ug Plainfield a R Wake- e 1 h t e ¬ n e g l «32 - l Ashfield e d t Salem t v x Bedford in a t r l a y s o h r S field S Cu Conway D e r B g d n to S Marblehead m 4N an a r u o n Pittsfield e m l r a u t e ¬ D i u o Le B n h - a « l 9 ng r Petersham Hubbardston r r to Go e b c H o Acton o u am u a n e v b b s n c x g Lynn Swampscott d o - d e e n i W h Mel- s L t a n c u s h n in r W L o g W e rose s 143 u u Princeton - t n ¬ e Whately Barre es «¬ « t 20 i Peru n il S h ¬ y C en C « o W l 62 Bolton d A M ld h ia S Ster9ling a r n r a Stow l e H W o n a in d M - d e m o M to g f r Nahant r t n n - o e n t s s d n Lincoln S rd v Revere o h t b iel li B o E t l- Housatonic e e f 10 e m t e u at «¬ C W W l- e a i r H 31 y a m e h e m M n r W r lt C r s h s f d ha o a v C g i g t «¬32 B e Hudson u m nt m il ic i t e e le 6 s n Rutland b b d t s Pelham o Berlin W R Lenox River M o ld O y t n d ate ri Winthrop d f y r s r- d n a ls o u a tow g l i t l t n e Washington e e e o t S e e i W k l gh o s y e f l d Hardwick Holden n l No orou g i d e h rlb F d d a n g e y M a t s a b e d l n r r Ne n i d l R t a o o t i s i d mh New m h a l r e h r o o W k e r i P B - m w o v t a H A u b b B Northampton a - t o e m g South i y o r W k ¬ « g k 20 B Braintree x S h n le n B c r p t s c r . n e o h gh g le o i t ¬ n r orou l m o « e o 66 b h Boston t t T t l B w e a Lee Becket n - n c Ware W S s t- a Natick W h Hull d S S y n t h r North W b d r s o «¬ o p L u s h m e r t 9 e o y e r e in Chester u a h o e r y g Ne p s Brookfield e c o ¬ t r A t « E 20 e Granby k e W u s De f g H l t t i h y S e m n s o l o u o f c t lan n c h M r s Great u a d w i e e d W d o n e c A a h o r o h t i s o t a «¬ 495 Sherborn e l B ¬ a u 9 l s b i a e « m h S n d s n a t m h 228 e r Q ¬ h t Dover M « t H n w m r t t Barrington o g d e e o k l E n o Hopkinton o e n Otis o p o t o tr u S t o ie a r r d n C Blandford k f i o m o d a c y f s y n l R r i n f u a - B t l k t r o e Warren i r t r 128 a am u m e b e ¬ Monterey l u s « r Ludlow o li i o n h at l o l d mo l b G e y u f g e Palmer o d ll o N o d n e r y¬ i r i « e e 3 H Chicop «¬67 A M H Millis d o o H g s B M Upton l «¬ e Norwell «¬8 il e 1A w Canton p Hol- E s W f h R S o M e a u e W way l W o W M Westfield S s - H r d -A brook H M p t i h d Me o c M n R lb t o h v - an a Ne r e r p p g g k a o d in ra Charlton Sutton o l u o n o a 8 e i l r Brimfield N o n r s g h7 g N t b a v u e d s h lb i f am g a S A e 3 w s ie Springfield a o n r h n d d n n Oxford i m i Sheffield o f l i r le n rf W o o f n t 4S d b M i o t t d i i e r r a l e g e Tolland «¬ e l k Sharon n l o Monson 19 b o k d t u ld - U n h k t o Granville r d n k o ce- n g East H s d h r x o g c r Provin h Southwick a e n u t e e b n a - o Hanson Agawam m l t t r n r x r Whit- D town a u g i i m o Long- d - Long- p s l F B u a l S e F a h e d l o l l B E x d g k g e i Dudley b l h r a mb b e i u o S Douglas n t id s meadow meadow n W r e e o man e u v n r g t

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t b i w W r d t a s e l s B l e ¬146 M W il ie W er te K « t «¬121 nv sf wa r n e x i Connecticut River Plai a ridg n M B a g f n h h r i s t g ate l o t Truro r ew t u g a o o R rid p No r B n W o Norton a H b m ZONE 1: Northerly by the Vermont border; westerly ZONE 4 SOUTH: Northerly by Zones 2 and 4N; ZONE 8: Northerly by Zone 5; southerly by the e y y e tl h n M l t g P l A u h i lf by the New York border; southerly by a line running westerly by Zone 3; southerly by the Connecticut Connecticut and Rhode Island borders; easterly by ro d l o a d e eb m e along Rte. 20 to the junction with Rte. 7 in Pittsfield; Border; and easterly by the Connecticut River. the following: Rte. 31 in Princeton south to Rte. 56 ttl Taunton le A b t

north on Rte. 7 to Rte. 9 and east on Rte. 9 to the in Paxton, Rte. 56 south to Rte. 9 in Leicester, Rte. 9 R o r E e o Plymouth D as ZONE 5: k junction of Rte. 8; and easterly by a line running Northerly by the New Hampshire border; east to Cambridge Street in Worcester, Cambridge h u

n i g o t g B Carver h from the Vermont border south along Rte. 8 to Rte. westerly by the Connecticut River; southerly by a Street east to Rte. 146, Rte. 146 southeast to the Rhode o e h b h r a k kl o t e m e y 9 in Pittsfield. line running from the intersection of the Connecticut Island border, westerly by Zones 6 and 7. o t e h n 11 Lakeville River and Rte. 9 at the Northampton/Hadley line east S ans ZONE 2: Northerly by Vermont border; westerly by along Rte. 9 to Rte. 116 in Hadley, north along Rte. ZONE 9: Northerly by the New Hampshire border; rle t Rochester Wareham O Zones 1 and 3; southerly by the Massachusetts Turnpike 116 to Rte. 63 in North Amherst, east along Rte. 63 southerly by the Rhode Island border; easterly by the e s r Freetown Swansea A (I-90) from the intersection with the Housatonic and Pine Street to State Street, northeast along State following: Rte. 3 from New Hampshire southeast to e Brewster m c D o u M e River in Lee, east to the intersection (dead end) with Street and East Leverett Road to Cushman Road, Rte. I-495 south to Rte. 121 in Wrentham, Rte. 121 S e Sandwich n s a h n h n h r t i ic Bonny Rigg Hill Road in Becket; and easterly by a along Cushman Road to Shutesbury Road in East southwest to the Rhode Island border; westerly by Fall River i r s rw m n o a a u u H th n a N e M o o h line running from the Vermont border south along Leverett, east on Shutesbury Road and Leverett Road Zones 5 and 8. D B e a C t tt Barnstable e w ap B m a d oi r Rte. 112 to Rte. 143 in Worthington, along Rte. 143 to Wendell Road in Shutesbury Center, north along r f se t o Fair- tt a t mo r M Y west to the intersection with the Middle Branch of the Wendell Road to Locks Pond Road, north on Locks ZONE 10: Northerly by the New Hampshire border; r d haven a o 12 u s Westfield River, then south along Tourt Brook to the Pond Road to Lake View Road, northeast on Lake View westerly by Zone 9; southerly by a line running p t t h h Middle Branch of the Westfield River to the intersection Road to Locks Village Road, north along Locks Village from the intersection of Rte. 1A and Rte. I-495 in s p e Falmouth e with the East Branch of the Westfield River, south Road to Depot Road in Wendell, north on Depot Road the town of Walpole northeast along Rte. 1A to the e W along the East Branch of the Westfield River to Rte. to Rte. 2A in Wendell Depot, east on Rte. 2A to Rte. intersection with Rte. 128 in the town of Dedham, 20 in Huntington, west along Rte. 20 to Bonny Rigg 32 in Athol, south on Rte. 32 to Rte. 62 in Barre, and east on Rte. 128 to the intersection with Rte. 3 in the Hill Road in Becket, south on Bonny Rigg Hill Road east on Rte. 62 to the intersection with Rte. 31 in town of Braintree, east on Rte. 3 to the intersection to the intersection with the Massachusetts Turnpike. Princeton; and easterly by a line running north on with Rte. 228 in the town of Rockland, and north on d Rte. 31 to the New Hampshire border. Rte. 228 to the Atlantic Ocean at the intersection of ol sn ry ZONE 3: u Northerly by Zone 1; westerly by the Rte. 228 and Nantasket Avenue in the town of Hull; Go b s is ff New York border; southerly by the New York and ZONE 6: Northerly by Zone 5; westerly by Zone 5; and easterly by the Atlantic ocean. T lu B k a Connecticut borders; and easterly by a line running southerly by a line running from the intersection of West O south along the Housatonic River from the junction Rte. 9 and Rt. 116 in Hadley, east along Rte. 9 to the ZONE 11: Northerly by Zones 9 and 10; southerly by Ed Tisbury ga with Rte. 9 in Pittsfield to the junction with Rte. intersection with Rte. 32 in Ware; and easterly by a Buzzard's Bay and the Cape Cod Canal; easterly by the rto wn 20 in Lee, east along Rte. 20 to the junction with line running from the intersection of Rte. 32 and Rte. Atlantic Ocean; westerly by the Rhode Island border. Chilmark 13 Rte. 8 in West Becket, and south on Rte. 8 to the 62 in Barre, south along Rte. 32 to the intersection Aquin- Connecticut border. with Rte. 9 in Ware. ZONE 12: Northerly, southerly and easterly by the nah Atlantic Ocean; westerly by Zone 11. ZONE 4 NORTH: Northerly by the Vermont border; ZONE 7: Northerly by Zones 5 and 6; southerly by westerly by Zone 2; southerly by a line running north the Connecticut border; easterly by a line running ZONE 13: Dukes County (i.e. Martha's Vineyard and Nantu1cket 4 from the intersection of Rte. 20 and the East Branch from the intersection of Rte. 9 and Rte. 32 in Ware, Elizabeth Islands). of the Westfield River in Huntington along the East east along Rte. 9 to the intersection with Rte. 67, Branch of the Westfield River to the intersection southwest along Rte. 67 to the intersection with ZONE 14: Nantucket. with Rte. 66, along Rte. 66 to the intersection with Rte. 19 in Warren, and south along Rte. 19 to the Rte. 9 in Northampton, to the intersection with the Connecticut border. Connecticut River at the Northampton/Hadley town line; and easterly by the Connecticut River. 26 www.mass.gov/masswildlife MA Division of Fisheries & Wildlife y r S u al M b isb e s u m r e ry ri m N a - e Wildlife Management Zones c A w p b st y o u r rt ry e u - W b w Haverhill e ry - N bu e w v d o Ne n r n e la n Clarksburg Monroe u G w B h y L e No t George- le to e r e - Rowe y n w e town w North a M c o d rd r n a No R ms a Colrain s t o L n A B a id e t h Warwick Royalston d Ashby e n o i Adams r n o Dunstable r r x ll lo n f n Townsend «¬3 Dracut d t f Ipswich i F Heath i e m gh h o e h ha Pepperell ou o rd Rock- W l c rn «¬31 r v «¬8 d n bu bo e e i h s C Andover ld x po e d g As ng Te r e rt w Adams Charlemont n l n W y h Lowell w fi e e rd r ie Gill g L T e k M s Ham s N o u f ng a r s id Gloucester hf b n rvi r T u lm b dl p W ilto s s l e E u n Groton W u et o e n E A Savoy e e O Athol e r r e s ¬ r on T nha b «4 y m h r m e f n h Buckland S G e e n y s o Nort an- Hawley M t h o M «¬ p n b e t t r k 2A r te s l s Cheshire o l 5 d c u f d g ing he o d c r c n Wendell e r n t n Rea Danve Ph i rs t i r r i L Beverly o t o g d y ¬112 a F h Ayer lm c « Ga i mi n g l n L Billerica i g P 2 t S d l n n l u i it W n e p s tl i f ab a e e e i La i New s e d t ad e o ne n f t Leominster r o d m H sbo Windsor o r n Carlisle e ld y ro o r W - ug Plainfield a R Wake- e 1 h t e ¬ n e g l «32 - l Ashfield e d t Salem t v x Bedford in a t r l a y s o h r S field S Cu Conway D e r B g d n to S Marblehead m 4N an a r u o n Pittsfield e m l r a u t e ¬ D i u o Le B n h - a « l 9 ng r Petersham Hubbardston r r to Go e b c H o Acton o u am u a n e v b b s n c x g Lynn Swampscott d o - d e e n i W h Mel- s L t a n c u s h n in r W L o g W e rose s 143 u u Princeton - t n ¬ e Whately Barre es «¬ « t 20 i Peru n il S h ¬ y C en C « o W l 62 Bolton d A M ld h ia S Ster9ling a r n r a Stow l e H W o n a in d M - d e m o M to g f r Nahant r t n n - o e n t s s d n Lincoln S rd v Revere o h t b iel li B o E t l- Housatonic e e f 10 e m t e u at «¬ C W W l- e a i r H 31 y a m e h e m M n r W r lt C r s h s f d ha o a v C g i g t «¬32 B e Hudson u m nt m il ic i t e e le 6 s n Rutland b b d t s Pelham o Berlin W R Lenox River M o ld O y t n d ate ri Winthrop d f y r s r- d n a ls o u a tow g l i t l t n e Washington e e e o t S e e i W k l gh o s y e f l d Hardwick Holden n l No orou g i d e h rlb F d d a n g e y M a t s a b e d l n r r Ne n i d l R t a o o t i s i d mh New m h a l r e h r o o W k e r i P B - m w o v t a H A u b b B Northampton a - t o e m g South i y o r W k ¬ « g k 20 B Braintree x S h n le n B c r p t s c r . n e o h gh g le o i t ¬ n r orou l m o « e o 66 b h Boston t t T t l B w e a Lee Becket n - n c Ware W S s t- a Natick W h Hull d S S y n t h r North W b d r s o «¬ o p L u s h m e r t 9 e o y e r e in Chester u a h o e r y g Ne p s Brookfield e c o ¬ t r A t « E 20 e Granby k e W u s De f g H l t t i h y S e m n s o l o u o f c t lan n c h M r s Great u a d w i e e d W d o n e c A a h o r o h t i s o t a «¬ 495 Sherborn e l B ¬ a u 9 l s b i a e « m h S n d s n a t m h 228 e r Q ¬ h t Dover M « t H n w m r t t Barrington o g d e e o k l E n o Hopkinton o e n Otis o p o t o tr u S t o ie a r r d n C Blandford k f i o m o d a c y f s y n l R r i n f u a - B t l k t r o e Warren i t r 128 a am u m e b e ¬ Monterey l u s « r Ludlow o li i o n h at l o l d mo l b Gr e y u f g e Palmer o d ll o N o d n e r y¬ i r i « e e 3 H Chicop «¬67 A M H Millis d o o H g s B M Upton l «¬ e Norwell «¬8 il e 1A w Canton p Hol- E s W f h R S o M e a u e W way l W o W M Westfield S s - H r d -A brook H M p t i h d Me o c M n R lb t o h v - an a Ne r e r p p g g k a o d in ra Charlton Sutton o l u o n o a 8 e i l r Brimfield N o n r s g h7 g N t b a v u e d s h lb i f am g a S A e 3 w s ie Springfield a o n r h n d d n n Oxford m i Sheffield o f l i ri le n rf W o o f n t 4S d b M i o t t d i i e r r a l e g e Tolland «¬ e l k Sharon n l o Monson 19 b o k d t u ld - U n h k t o Granville r d n k o ce- n g East H s d h r x o g c r Provin h Southwick a e n u t e e b n a - o Hanson Agawam m l t t r n r x r Whit- D town a u g i i m o Long- d - Long- p s l F B u a l S e F a h e d l o l l B E x d g k g e i Dudley b l h r a mb b e i u o S Douglas n t id s meadow meadow n W r e e o man e u v n r g t

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2014 Guide to Hunting, Fishing and Trapping 27 Hunting MASSACHUSETTS GUN LAWS POSSESSION: For hunting, resident citizens ages 15 and over must have a Firearms Identification Card (FID) to possess a low- capacity rifle or shotgun. A License To Carry (LTC) (age 21 and over) is needed to possess large capacity rifles and shotguns and all handguns. These permits are issued by local Police Departments. Non-residents with a valid Massachusetts non-resident hunting license do not need an LTC or FID to possess or carry a rifle or shotgun, but must carry their firearms unloaded and in a case while traveling in their vehicles. Non-residents may not purchase guns or ammunition in Massachusetts. To obtain a non-resident License To Carry or a non-resident permit to possess handguns, contact the CHSB (Criminal History Systems Board), Firearms Support Services (see below). No gun license is needed by bow hunters, nor by minors 12-14 years old hunting with a duly licensed adult, nor for the possession of primitive rifles or shotguns as defined in MGL Ch. 140, Section 121, STORAGE: State law requires that OPEN HUNTING SEASONS or their ammunition. However, an LTC or whenever a gun is not under your direct The following species may be taken FID is required to purchase all ammunition control, it must be kept in a locked year-round (except during shotgun including black powder and Pyrodex. container or equipped with a tamper- deer season) by licensed hunters with resistant mechanical lock. Muzzleloaders no daily or seasonal bag limit: English CAUTION: Massachusetts public safety are exempt from this requirement. sparrow, flying squirrel, red squirrel, laws define primitive arms differently chipmunk, porcupine, skunk, starling, from the laws and regulations of the DFW. PENALTIES: License revoked for one year weasel, woodchuck. in addition to other penalties; fines of TRAVEL: Rifles, shotguns, and up to $1,000; restitutions; and/or 1 year muzzleloaders may not be carried on in jail. Careless and negligent use of HUNTING HOURS public ways unless the person is lawfully firearms: fines of up to $500 and/or 6 Hunting hours are from ½ hour before engaged in hunting. When transported months imprisonment and loss of license sunrise to ½ hour after sunset on each in a motor vehicle, rifles, shotguns, and for 5 years. day of open season (see Sunrise-Sunset muzzleloaders must be unloaded and in table, page 52) except for: an enclosed case. A large capacity firearm • Rabbit, hare, fox, and coyote hunting, HUNTER HARASSMENT must be carried unloaded and contained which close at midnight, except during Hunter harassment is against state law. within a locked trunk or in a locked case the shotgun deer season when coyote Report violations to the Mass. Environ- or other secure container. hunting closes ½ hour after sunset. mental Police (800) 632-8075 or to state or local police. Be prepared to provide a • Spring turkey hunting (see page 32). MASSACHUSETTS description of violators and/or a descrip- • Raccoon and opossum hunting (see tion and license plate number of the car. page 40). GUN LAWS • WMA Reg. #10 (page 25) which For more information states that no person shall hunt before on Massachusetts CLOSED HUNTING SEASONS sunrise or after sunset on any WMA gun laws, contact Hunting seasons are closed throughout where pheasant or quail are stocked the CHSB, Firearms the year on all birds and mammals not during the pheasant or quail season mentioned herein or in Massachusetts Support Services, except for the hunting of raccoons Migratory Game Bird Regulations pub- 200 Arlington St., Suite and opossums between 9pm and 3am. lished each September. During shotgun 2200, Chelsea, MA 02150, • Migratory game bird hunting, which deer season all hunting seasons are is ½ hour before sunrise to sunset. tel. (617) 660-4780. closed except for deer, coyote, and waterfowl.

28 www.mass.gov/masswildlife MA Division of Fisheries & Wildlife Hunting CRITTERS OF MASSACHUSETTS “Critters of Massachusetts” Quail Ridge is a pocket guide designed for kids but useful for Kennel & Preserve anyone wanting concise information about mammals, birds, and reptiles of Massachusetts. Available at any DFW office or send www.QuailRidgeKennelandPreserve.com $5.00 plus $1.50 postage We offer German Shorthair pups from and handling to the high quality bloodlines, occasionally DFW Field Headquarters, started or fi nished dogs are available. 100 Hartwell St., Suite 230, Custom guided hunts on our exquisite West Boylston, MA 01583. shooting preserve guarantee a satisfying yield of pheasant and chukar partridge. Make checks payable to Boarding and professional training Comm. of MA—DFW. services offered.

CHECKING OR REPORTING GAME Upon harvesting a deer, bear, or tur- TRANSPORT key, you must immediately attach the OF FISH AND paper tag from your permit or license to the carcass. Your game must remain WILDLIFE Contact Steve Hopko for details 860.684.2252 intact (other than field dressing), with It is a violation of Federal the harvest tag attached, until it is Law to transport illegally checked and prepared for food or taxi- taken fish or wildlife Your archery adventure dermy purposes. Hunters may report across state lines. For starts HERE! their harvested game online or bring additional information their game to an official check station. contact the U.S. Fish & For detailed information on Online Game Wildlife Service, Office Check, visit the Game Check Station of Law Enforcement, page on www.mass.gov/masswildlife. (617) 889-6616. If you report your harvest online, you will be issued a confirmation number, Bows • Crossbows • Accessories • Repairs You must write it on the harvest tag at- 5 to 40 yard indoor range tached to the carcass. The harvest tag 3D Video archery range with harvest report confirmation num- LANDOWNER Serving the Archery Community Since 1991 ber must remain attached to the carcass until it is prepared for food or taxidermy LIABILITY purposes. Hunters who harvest a deer, Any landowner bear, or turkey are required to check permitting use of his their game within 48 hours of killing or her property for the animal. For a complete list of of- recreation without 288 Plymouth Ave, Fall River, MA 774-627-7743 • traderjans.com ficial checking stations visit the DFW charging a fee is not website www.mass.gov/masswildlife. liable for injuries to For general furbearer checking require- recreational users of ments, see page 42. Hunters Rendezvous/Royal Marine the property except in Rte. 119 (South Road) • Pepperell, MA • 01463 www.huntersrendezvous.com cases of willful, wanton (978) 433-9458 or reckless conduct by Muzzle Loading Firearms Traditional Archery Equipment the owner. (MGL Ch. 21 § 17C) Maritime Skiff Boats • Malibu Fishing Kayaks Fresh & Saltwater Fly Fishing Equipment

2014 Guide to Hunting, Fishing and Trapping 29 Hunting HUNTING PROHIBITIONS • Artificial lights for hunting any bird or mammal except It is illegal to hunt MOOSE. raccoon and opossum. • Baiting migratory game birds, wild turkey, bear, or deer during or within 10 days of the start of the season. This • Possession of rifles, handguns, or dogs in any woodland or does not apply to the hunting of crows. field, or use of same on any game, is prohibited during the • Careless or negligent use of firearms. shotgun deer season except that the use of dogs is lawful for hunting waterfowl on coastal waters. • Choke traps, leghold traps, or nets for taking any bird or mammal. • Power or sailboats for hunting birds except when beached or tied to a blind or for retrieving injured birds. • Crossbows are allowed for certain disabled persons only (see Archery, page 24). • Removal of any mammal from walls, or holes in trees, ground, or logs. • Decoys for hunting deer. • Rifles chambered to take ammunition larger than .22 cali- • Discharge of any firearm or release of any arrow upon or ber long rifle rimfire, and pistols and revolvers chambered across any state or hard-surfaced highway, or within 150 to take ammunition larger than .38 caliber, between the feet of any such highway, or possession of a loaded firearm, hours of ½ hour after sunset and ½ hour before sunrise. discharge of a firearm, or hunting on the land of another within 500 feet of any dwelling or building in use, except • Sale of all species of mammals and birds or parts thereof, as authorized by the owner or occupant thereof. See page except heads, hides, and hooves of deer. 28 for additional firearms regulations. • Shotgun ammunition: except as provided below, no species • Electronic calls for hunting migratory game birds, wild other than deer, coyote, or waterfowl may be hunted or turkey, or deer. This does not apply to the hunting of crows. taken with shot larger than #1 birdshot. Except during the prescribed open season when deer may be hunted lawfully • Ferreting: it is unlawful to hunt with a ferret. Possession with a shotgun, a person shall not have in his possession a of non-vaccinated/unneutered ferrets/fitches without a shotgun shell loaded with a rifled slug, single ball, buckshot permit is unlawful. of any size, or any shot larger than or equal to air rifle shot • Firearms other than shotguns and bows and arrows are in any place where birds or mammals may be found except prohibited on WMAs stocked with pheasant or quail during on a skeet, trap, or target range between sunrise and sunset, the pheasant and quail season. or except for the hunting of coyotes (a) during the prescribed • Hunting on posted land without permission. open season for coyotes with shot not larger than FF; or (b) • Hunting on Sunday. during the shotgun deer season when coyotes may be hunted only with archery, muzzleloader, or shotgun—using slugs, • Importation, transportation, liberation, or possession of buckshot, or shot of any size; or, except as specified in the any live vertebrate protected under MGL Ch. 131 except annual Migratory Game Bird Hunting Regulations. under permit from the Director. • Swivel or pivot guns for hunting any bird. • It is illegal to import, process, or possess whole carcasses or parts of any cervids (members of the deer family) from • Taking nests, destroying, or disturbing eggs or nests of states or provinces where Chronic Wasting Disease has been birds protected by law. detected (including NY and PA). It is legal to import deer • Target shooting on Sunday except on one’s own property meat that is de-boned, cleaned skull caps, hides without or on a recognized trap, skeet, or rifle range. the head, or a fixed taxidermy mount. No live deer, of any • Traps for taking birds except under permit. All traps ex- species, may be brought into Massachusetts for any purpose. cept cage or box traps and common mouse or rat traps are • Intoxication and drugs: no person under the influence of unlawful for the taking of fur-bearing mammals. intoxicating liquor or drugs shall hunt, target shoot, carry • Vandalism or damage to property or livestock. a firearm, bow and arrow, or other weapon. PENALTIES: License revoked for one year in addition to other • Loaded shotgun or rifle in or on any motor vehicle, recre- penalties; fines of up to $1,000, restitutions, and /or 1 year ational vehicle (including snowmobiles), aircraft or motor in jail. Careless and negligent use of firearms; fines of up boat, except as stated in the Migratory Game Bird Hunting to $500 and /or 6 months imprisonment and loss of license Regulations. for 5 years. • Machine guns, fully-automatic firearms, any tracer or incendiary ammunition for hunting. • Motor vehicles, off-highway vehicles (including snowmo- It is illegal to shoot HAWKS, EAGLES, OWLS biles), and/or aircraft for hunting any bird or mammal. or any other bird not specifically mentioned • Possession of any protected wildlife and/or wild plants, in this Guide or in the Massachusetts dead or alive, taken from the wild, except by permit. Migratory Game Bird Regulations.

30 www.mass.gov/masswildlife MA Division of Fisheries & Wildlife Hunting OPEN SEASON DAILY BAG POSSESSION SEASON (All Dates Inclusive) LIMIT LIMIT LIMIT

Sept. 2 – Sept. 20 Black Bear Zones 1-9 See "Black Bear," below. 1 Nov. 3 – Nov. 22 Bear hunting closed during shotgun deer season.

BLACK BEAR MASSACHUSETTS OUTDOOR Permit required (see page 9). Limit one bear per year. Hunting allowed in Zones 1–9 ONLY. Hunting only with rifle RECREATION MAP .23 caliber or larger, muzzleloader .44–.775 caliber, bows The Massachusetts Outdoor with a draw weight of 40 lbs. or greater, or revolvers .357 Recreation Map features Magnum or .40 caliber or larger. Revolvers permitted during information on Wildlife September season only. Use of shotguns and use of dogs for Management Areas, State training or hunting is prohibited (see Hunting Dogs on page Forests and Parks and Boat 24). Baiting of bears is prohibited. Hunting hours close Launch sites statewide. Massachusetts ½ hour after sunset except as noted in WMA Reg. #10 (page Outdoor Copies may be obtained R ec r e at io n 25). Successful hunters must immediately fill out and MAP detach bear tag from permit and attach tag to bear prior to from DFW Offices. moving it, and then must check/report their harvest within 48 hours by EITHER 1) reporting online and writing the harvest report confirmation number on tag attached to the bear (see page 29 for details), or 2) bringing the bear to an HOW OLD IS THAT BEAR? official check station. Bear can only be field dressed, must If you harvest a bear, the DFW requests that you submit not be concealed (bear or part of bear must remain open to a tooth for aging. Please follow the instructions below. view during transport), and must remain intact or whole 1 Remove the first premolar (see (do not skin, butcher, or take to a taxidermist for mounting) photo), or ask a DFW staff mem- until it has been checked/reported. ber to collect the tooth. This is a very small tooth, just behind the large canine tooth. It does not matter if you take the left or the right tooth. However, the root is the most important part. Do not break the tooth. 2 Using a small sharp knife, or a sharp ¼-inch wood chisel, slide the blade down the side of the tooth and cut or separate the gum tissue where it sticks to the tooth. Using a small needle-nose pliers or the pliers Bill Byrne on your multi-tool, wiggle the tooth slightly until you can pull it out of the jawbone and the gum. The tooth is only about ½-inch (or less) in length. Go easy and do not break it. ANIMALS TAGGED FOR RESEARCH 3 Put the tooth in a small envelope, and mark it with your Some bear, deer, coyotes and other animals name and the seal/confirmation number of your bear. may have ear tags or radio collars. It is Put the small envelope in a regular mailing envelope legal to harvest them. If you find or take and send it to: Bear Project, Division of Fisheries & Wildlife Field Headquarters, Westborough, MA 01581. one of these animals, contact DFW’s Field Be sure to enclose your name and mailing address. Headquarters (508) 389-6300 immediately. You will be asked for information that will 4 All bear teeth from both seasons are sent out for help biologists determine the source and processing in January. The ages are then received status of these animals AND you will be by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife in May or asked to return the equipment to the DFW. June, and you will be notified of the age of your bear at that time. Thank you for your cooperation.

2014 Guide to Hunting, Fishing and Trapping 31 Hunting OPEN SEASON DAILY BAG POSSESSION SEASON (All Dates Inclusive) LIMIT LIMIT LIMIT UPLAND GAME BIRDS* Spring: Zones 1–13 Apr. 28 – May 24 Wild Turkey Fall: Zones 1–13 Oct. 20 – Nov. 1 See "Wild Turkey," below. Youth Hunt: Zones 1-13 April 26 (special restrictions apply**) Jan. 1 – Apr. 10 Crow — — — Jul. 2 – Apr. 10, 2015 Oct. 18 – Nov. 29 2 4 6 Pheasant Youth Hunt See page 46. Quail Zones 11–14 only Oct. 18 – Nov. 29 4 8 20 Ruffed Grouse Oct. 18 – Nov. 29 3 6 15 Upland game bird hunting is closed during shotgun deer season. * Migratory game birds (includes waterfowl, woodcock, snipe, rails): Seasons set annually. see Migratory Game Bird Abstract posted in late August. ** Must have completed the youth turkey hunt program (page 46).

CROW May be hunted on Fridays, Saturdays, and Mondays only during mediately (prior to moving) attach it to turkey, and must check/ the open season. Electronic calls, rifles, and bait are permis- report their harvest within 48 hours by EITHER 1) reporting sible. Hunting hours close ½ hour after sunset except as noted online and writing the assigned confirmation number on tag in WMA Reg. #10 (see page 25). attached to turkey (see page 29 for details), or 2) bringing the turkey to an official check station. PHEASANT Cocks and hens may be hunted on all WMAs statewide. Only cocks can be hunted eastward of the zone from the New Hamp- shire border south on I-95 to I-495, south on I-495 to I-95, north on I-95 to I-93/128, east on I-93/128 to Rt. 3, south on Rt. 3 to SPECIAL UPLAND BIRD HUNTING OPTION Rt. 228, north on Rt. 228 to the Hull town line, including the town of Hull and also in Dukes and Nantucket counties. See Licensed hunters may submit an application WMA Reg. #10 (page 25). to DFW District offices for a free 1 day permit that allows the private purchase, liberation, QUAIL and hunting of ring-necked pheasants Zones 11–14 only. See WMA Reg. #10 (page 25). and/or bobwhite quail on selected WMAs RUFFED GROUSE (see list below) from January 1–March See WMA Reg. #10 (page 25). 31. If purchasing birds from out of state, a separate importation permit is required. WILD TURKEY Permits are issued on a first-come, first- Permit required. Official green safety sticker must be adhered to served basis; only one party may schedule firearm such that it is visible to the hunter when sighting down a hunt on each specific WMA per day. There the barrel (typically placed on the tang). If new or replacement is no minimum or maximum stocking limit, or sticker is needed, send self-addressed stamped envelope to any daily/season bag limit. For a complete list of DFW office. Spring hunting hours: ½ hour before sunrise to procedures and locations available for this 12:00 noon. Fall hunting hours: ½ hour before sunrise to ½ permit, contact any DFW District office. hour after sunset except as noted in WMA Reg. #10 (page 25). Bag Limit: Annual limit of 2 wild turkeys total, only one Crane WMA, Southeast District turkey may be harvested per day; EITHER (a) 2 bearded birds Erwin Wilder WMA, Southeast District in spring season (1 per day) with NO fall bird allowed, OR (b) Martin Burns WMA, Northeast District 1 bearded bird in spring season, and 1 bird of either sex in fall season. No hunter may take 2 birds in the fall season. Hunting Bolton Flats WMA, Central District only with shotguns no larger than 10 gauge or .775 caliber Winnimusset WMA, Central District smoothbore muzzleloading shotguns using #4-#7 size shot, Herm Covey WMA, CT Valley District and with archery equipment (see ARCHERY pg. 24). Use of Housatonic Valley WMA, Western District electronic calls, dogs, bait, and driving turkeys is prohibited. Successful hunters must fill out tag attached to permit and im-

32 www.mass.gov/masswildlife MA Division of Fisheries & Wildlife Hunting DIFFERENCES BETWEEN HENS (FEMALES) AND TOMS (MALES) during However, their loss reduces the reproductive potential of the spring hunting season: A small proportion of female turkeys the turkey population. To avoid misidentification, use the may have a beard and therefore can be legally harvested. following features to accurately identify a tom from a hen.

TOM FEATURE HEN Red, blue, or white colors with snood Head Blue-gray, no snood Dark, brown-black Body Light, rusty brown Long bristle/filament like beard Beard Usually no beard Present Spurs Usually absent Gobble, drum Calls Yelps, clucks, cuts Strut with tail fan and wing drop Strut Do not strut

1 2 Larger than hen Size ⁄2 to ⁄3 size of gobbler

MIGRATORY GAME BIRD REGULATIONS The All Terrain ALL migratory game bird hunters must complete a Harvest Information Program (H.I.P.) ATR Rake Survey for each calendar year. This includes woodcock, rail, snipe, and coot hunters. - Pull behind ATV or garden tractor Complete the survey when you purchase your license, or when you purchase your state - Engage long or short tines waterfowl stamp. H.I.P. numbers will no longer be issued; instead, a "waterfowl stamp" or a “H.I.P. Survey Completed” notation will appear directly on your license. A separate - Multiple angle & pitch settings H.I.P. survey must be completed for each state in which you hunt migratory game birds. - Fabricated with 7/16” steel plate Migratory Game Bird Hunting regulations do not appear in this publication. They Use on: Driveways - Food Plots - Trails are published separately on the website in late August and in hard copy by mid- Horse Arenas - New Lawns and More September. $29999 width - 48’’ *Low introductory price weight - 103 lbs. YOUTH WATERFOWL HUNT DATES

Two days are set aside prior to the waterfowl hunting seasons for young hunters NEW! ages 12–15. All youth hunters must be accompanied by a licensed adult hunter with a valid Massachusetts waterfowl stamp. The young hunter and accompanying adult may have only one firearm between them. The adult may not hunt and may carry the US Patent 7287344 firearm only when it is unloaded and cased. No license or stamp needed for youths ages 12–14. License and Massachusetts waterfowl stamp needed for youths age 15. See video and other attachments at : No federal stamp required. All other hunting regulations apply. www.RatchetRake.com The Snow Edge - Clamp on loader bucket attachment - Protects con- crete + asphalt WATERFOWL CONSUMPTION ADVISORY seal coats The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH) has - Long lasting recycled plastic issued a waterfowl consumption advisory for the Housatonic River wear edge due to PCBs. For more information call the MDPH at (617) 624-5757 - Sizes starting or visit www.mass.gov/eohhs/gov/departments/dph/ at $29999 Ratchet Rake LLC 888 850 6070 405 N. East St. Carlisle PA 17013

2014 Guide to Hunting, Fishing and Trapping 33 Hunting OPEN SEASON DAILY BAG POSSESSION SEASON (All Dates Inclusive) LIMIT LIMIT LIMIT

Archery Oct. 20 – Nov. 29 2 Antlered deer See "Deer," below and pages + antlerless Deer Shotgun Dec. 1 – Dec. 13 36–37. deer Primitive Firearms Dec. 15 – Dec. 31 by permit

DEER not qualify as an antlered deer) during applicant was successful or not will be Hunting hours begin ½ hour before sun- any deer season in all Massachusetts. instant). Selection is random and the rise and close ½ hour after sunset except To apply for an antlerless deer permit, odds of drawing a permit remain the as noted in WMA Reg. #10 (page 25). hunters must submit a free permit same throughout the Instant Award application by July 16. Hunters may only period (Instant Award permit issuance is ANTLERED DEER: Any deer with at least apply for 1 permit in a specific Wildlife NOT first-come-first-served). The odds of 1 antler 3 inches long measured on a Management Zone (see WMZ map, page drawing a permit depend on the number straight line from the center of the front 26). The application must be submitted of antlerless deer permits issued for a base of the antler burr to the tip. through the MassFishHunt system by given zone and the number of hunters any license vendor, or online via a that applied for that zone. Successful ANTLERLESS DEER: Any deer with computer. To obtain a permit, applicants applicants will be assessed a $5.00 fee both antlers less than 3 inches long must return to the MassFishHunt system and may print the permit immediately measured on a straight line from the during the Instant Award period (Aug. or at a later date. Any permits for center of the front base of the antler 1 – Dec. 31) and try to draw an antlerless undersubscribed zones will go on sale burr to the tip. A permit is required to deer permit for the zone they applied in October (with details announced in take antlerless deer (any deer that does for (the notification of whether the September).

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34 www.mass.gov/masswildlife MA Division of Fisheries & Wildlife Hunting NOTE: Antlerless deer permits are valid deer must not be concealed. Deer or use of dogs is lawful for hunting waterfowl during any deer season in the specified part of deer must remain open to view on coastal waters. zone only (see zone map, page 26)and during transport AND must remain must be in the hunter’s possession while intact or whole (may be field-dressed, DURING ARCHERY DEER SEASON: Archery deer hunting. Each antlerless deer permit but not butchered, skinned, or taken to Stamp required. Archers shall not pos- is valid for one antlerless deer. A hunter a taxidermist for mounting). sess firearms on their person or use may possess antlerless deer permits for dogs. Arrows must be well-sharpened more than one zone (e.g., drew a zone DURING SHOTGUN DEER SEASON hunters may steel broadhead blades no less than 7/8 5 with instant award and purchased an use shotguns not larger than 10 gauge, inches in width. Expanding broadheads additional antlerless deer permit for an bows and arrows, or muzzleloaders not and mechanical releases are legal. All undersubscribed zone, such as zone 14). smaller than .44 caliber, or larger than bows, except permitted crossbows, used .775 caliber. Hunters may use modern for hunting deer (recurve, long, and com- TAGGING AND CHECKING REQUIREMENTS: muzzleloaders, hinge action muzzleload- pound) must have a draw weight of at Successful hunters must immediately ers, muzzleloaders with telescopic sights, least 40 lbs. at 28 inches or at peak draw. fill out and detach paper tag from and sabot rounds. Rifled barrel shotguns Blaze orange is not required except as permit/license and attach tag to deer are legal during shotgun deer season. noted in WMA Reg. # 11 (page 25). See prior to moving it, and then must check/ All hunters, including bowhunters, page 24 for more archery information. report their harvest within 48 hours by must wear a minimum of 500 square EITHER 1) reporting online and writing inches of “hunter orange” on their MUZZLELOADER DEER SEASON: Primitive the harvest confirmation number on the head, chest, and back during shotgun Firearms Stamp required. Hunters may tag attached to the deer (see page 29 and muzzleloader seasons. Cap and vest use only shoulder-fired muzzleloaders for details), or 2) checking the deer will suffice. .44 caliber to .775 caliber; barrel length at an official check station. All deer The possession of rifles, handguns, or 18 inches or more with only one barrel harvested during the 2-week shotgun dogs in any woodland or field, or use of operational. Inline ignition systems are season must be brought to an official same on any game, is prohibited during permitted providing rifle loads from the check station. Until checked/reported, the shotgun deer season except that the muzzle. Single projectile only (no buck-

2014 Guide to Hunting, Fishing and Trapping 35 Hunting shot). Sabot rounds, 209 primers, break/ during the muzzleloader firearms season • Hunters may purchase additional ant- hinge-action muzzleloaders, and scopes but must purchase a Primitive Firearms lerless deer permits for available zones. are legal. Powder limited to black powder Stamp and wear at least 500 square inches • Hunters may take a maximum of 2 deer or black powder substitutes. A muzzle- of hunter orange on head, back, and chest. in the Quabbin Reservation. Antler- loader is considered unloaded when cap or less deer taken in the Quabbin are not DAILY BAG: The daily bag limit is determined pan powder is removed. Archers may hunt considered part of the statewide bag by the number of valid tags or permits a limit. Antlered deer taken in the Quab- hunter possesses and whether or not the bin are considered part of the statewide hunter has checked/reported any deer. No bag limit. hunter may have more than 2 unreported deer in possession at any time, with the DRIVING DEER while hunting is lawful. exception of zones 13 and 14, where no hunter may have more than 4 unreported BAITING OF DEER is prohibited during any deer in possession at any time. All deer deer season and any bait made available must be checked/reported within 48 hours to deer must be removed 10 days prior to of being killed. the opening of the archery deer season.

SEASON LIMIT: Two antlered deer, and as IMPORTATION OF DEER PARTS from states or many antlerless deer as the hunter has provinces where Chronic Wasting Dis- valid permits for, provided that: ease (CWD) has been detected (including

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36 www.mass.gov/masswildlife MA Division of Fisheries & Wildlife Hunting NY and PA) is illegal. It is legal to import deboned meat, cleaned skull caps, hides without the head, or a fixed taxidermy FALCONRY mount. No live deer, of any species, may be brought into Massachusetts for any Hunting with birds of prey is allowed under a special permit purpose. from the DFW; see dates and regulations in the Migratory Bird Regulations issued each September. QUABBIN CONTROLLED DEER HUNT: Call the Department of Conservation and Recreation at (413) 323-7221 in July for information. Must submit an application by Aug. 15.

PARAPLEGIC SPORTSMEN'S HUNT: There is a special deer hunt for paraplegic sportsmen SPECIAL HUNTS Oct. 30 – Nov. 1, 2014. Contact DFW Field • Quabbin Controlled Deer Hunt, see page 37 Headquarters (508) 389-6300 or visit the • Paraplegic Sportsmen's Deer Hunt, see page 37 DFW website (www.mass.gov/masswildlife) for more information. • Youth Pheasant Hunt, see page 46 • Youth Turkey Hunt, see page 46 • Youth Waterfowl Hunting Dates, see Migratory Game Bird Hunting Regulations (available in September) • Special Upland Game Bird Hunt, see page 32

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2014 Guide to Hunting, Fishing and Trapping 37 Hunting OPEN SEASON DAILY BAG POSSESSION SEASON (All Dates Inclusive) LIMIT LIMIT LIMIT RABBITS & SQUIRRELS Jan. 1 – Feb. 28 Zones 1-12 5 10 — Cottontail Oct. 18 – Feb. 28, 2015 Rabbit Jan. 1 – Feb. 28 Zones 13 and 14 5 10 — Nov. 15 – Feb. 28, 2015 Jan. 1 – Feb. 28 Zones 1–4 2 4 — Oct. 18 – Feb. 28, 2015 Jan. 1 – Feb. 5 Snowshoe Hare Zones 5–12 2 4 — Oct. 18 – Feb. 5, 2015 Jan. 1 – Feb. 5 Zones 13 and 14 2 4 — Nov. 15 – Feb. 5, 2015 Jackrabbit Zone 14 Nov. 15 – Dec. 31 1 2 — Gray Squirrel Zones 1–9 Sept. 8 – Jan. 2, 2015 5 10 — Zones 10–14 Oct. 18 – Jan. 2, 2015 5 10 — Rabbit, jackrabbit, hare, and squirrel hunting are closed during shotgun deer season.

GRAY SQUIRREL where pheasant or quail are stocked during the open season Rifles and handguns of any caliber permitted in Zones 1-9, on pheasant and quail, when hunting hours are from sunrise prohibited in Zones 10-14. No trapping or netting. Shotgun or to sunset (see WMA Regulation #10, page 25). bow and arrow only during the pheasant and quail seasons on WMAs stocked with pheasant or quail (see WMA Regula- RABBIT, HARE, AND JACKRABBIT tion #9, page 25). Hunting hours ½ hour before sunrise to Hunting hours ½ hour before sunrise to midnight except on ½ hour after sunset except on Wildlife Management Areas certain WMAs (see WMA Regulation #10 Page 25).

RECREATIONAL VEHICLES (ATVs, OHVs, dirt bikes, etc.) QUIET Recreational vehicles are inherently damaging to most POWERFUL environments in which they are operated. It is illegal to operate ACCURATE any motorized vehicle on any WMA or other property owned The New or controlled by the DFW; on most state park and state forest ® Ruger Talon lands; and it is illegal to operate them on private lands without high velocity pellet the written permission of the landowner. Moreover, legislation rifle. Featuring the SilencAir noise enacted in 2010 (Chapter 202 of the Acts of 2010) strengthens the reduction system. regulation of these recreation vehicles, increases penalties for violations, prohibits the unauthorized use of recreation vehicles on public property; imposes new operator age restrictions, which may be further modified by the MA Environmental Police (MEP) through regulation; and establishes a fund to support riding opportunities and law enforcement and regulatory activities. For more information, contact the Safety Bureau in MEP at (508) 759-0002, or go to www.mass.gov/eea/grants-and-tech- assistance/enforcement/environmental-police and click on the Safety Bureau link.

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38 www.mass.gov/masswildlife MA Division of Fisheries & Wildlife Hunting OPEN SEASON DAILY BAG POSSESSION SEASON (All Dates Inclusive) LIMIT LIMIT LIMIT REPTILES & AMPHIBIANS Bullfrog and Green Frog Jul. 16 – Sept. 30 12 24 — Snapping Turtle Jan. 1 – Dec. 31 — — —

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REPTILES AND AMPHIBIANS: Hunting, taking, or possessing alive exciting product any state-listed (MA Endangered Species Act) species, spotted turtles, eastern hog-nosed snakes, four-toed salamanders, or service spotted salamanders, northern leopard frogs, or spring salamanders is prohibited. Possession limit of 2 on all other with the Massachusetts species except bullfrog, green frog, and snapping turtle. sporting community!

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2014 Guide to Hunting, Fishing and Trapping 39 Hunting OPEN SEASON DAILY BAG POSSESSION SEASON (All Dates Inclusive) LIMIT LIMIT LIMIT FURBEARERS Jan. 1 – Mar. 8 Bobcat Zones 1-8 — — — Dec. 20 – Mar. 7, 2015 Jan. 1 – Mar. 8 Coyote — — — Oct. 18 – Mar. 7, 2015 Jan. 1 – Feb. 28 Fox (red or gray) — — — Nov. 1 – Feb. 28, 2015 Jan. 1 – Jan. 31 Raccoon 3 — — Oct. 1 – Jan. 31, 2015 Jan. 1 – Jan. 31 Opossum — — — Oct. 1 – Jan. 31, 2015

BOBCAT Massachusetts Hunting hours ½ hour before sunrise to for each particular pelt or carcass, until Sportsmen’s Council ½ hour after sunset. Hunting is limited the carcass is prepared for mounting by a to Zones 1-8. It is illegal to use dogs taxidermist, or the pelt is sold or tanned. for bobcat hunting. All bobcats taken During the shotgun deer season or salvaged must be checked within it is legal to hunt coyotes, but not fox; 4 working days of the end of the season however the following additional regula- (see page 42) at an official check sta- tions apply: tion. Bobcats cannot be reported online. • Hunting hours begin ½ hour before Serving Massachusetts’ Sportsmen COYOTE & FOX sunrise and end ½ hour after sunset. Since 1929 Hunting hours begin ½ hour before sunrise www.masportsmen.org • Use of manual or electronic calls and and end at midnight, except 1) on WMAs dogs are prohibited. stocked with pheasant or quail during the • Rifles and handguns are prohibited. pheasant and quail season when hunting hours begin at sunrise and end at sunset • Shotguns and muzzleloaders loaded and, 2) when hunting coyote during the with slugs, single balls or buckshot “The Experts By Experience” shotgun deer season (see below). Coyote are permitted. Just Over The CT Border 167 Elm Street, Agawam, MA and fox may be hunted with shotguns, • Hunters must wear a minimum of 500 413-786-0100 muzzleloaders, and archery, as well as square inches of hunter orange on their GunsandGearOutlet.com rifles and handguns with special nighttime head, chest, and back. restrictions (see page 30). Coyotes may be hunted with shotguns using numbered RACCOON or lettered birdshot (≤ 0.230 inch pellet Limit of 3 raccoons from sunset of R & J OUTFITTERS diameter; up to FF), except during the 1 day to sunset of the following day by Affordable trophy whitetail hunts in N.W. Missouri shotgun deer season (see below). Fox may 1 person; limit of 6 by 2 or more persons be hunted with numbered birdshot only hunting in the same group. Night hunting (≤ 0.160 inch pellet diameter). It is legal on WMAs (except Delaney and Flint to hunt coyote and fox using bait, decoys, Pond WMAs) is permitted from sunset electronic or manual calls, and dogs. Arti- to sunrise except during the pheasant ficial lights are prohibited. Coyote and fox and quail season on areas stocked with pelts/carcasses must be checked/reported pheasant or quail, when raccoon may be within 4 working days of the end of the 176 B&C hunted only from 9pm to 3am. season by either 1) checking them at an 5-Day, Fully Guided, Fair Chase Hunts official check station (see page 42), or OPOSSUM with Lodging start at only $1,700.00! 2) reporting them online and writing the No bag limit on opossum. Night hunting Thousands of private acres. harvest confirmation number on a tag of on WMAs (except Delaney and Flint Pond No trophy fees or hidden charges. your own making, then attaching the tag WMAs) is permitted from sunset to sun- YES YOU CAN! to the carcass or pelt (see page 42 for rise except during the pheasant and quail Ray: 786-319-1367 John: 786-394-3536 details). Confirmation numbers must re- season on WMAs stocked with pheasant www.randjoutfitters.com main attached to all pelts/carcasses, with or quail, when opossum may be hunted the specific confirmation number issued only from 9pm to 3am. 40 www.mass.gov/masswildlife MA Division of Fisheries & Wildlife Trapping OPEN SEASON carried when using such traps. For further information contact (All Dates Inclusive) the Hunter Education Program at (978) 772-0693. FURBEARERS – TRAPPING TRAP TYPES Bobcat*, Coyote*, Fox*, Weasel Nov. 1 – Nov. 30 The only traps that may be used for the taking of fur-bearing Fisher* Nov. 1 – Nov. 22 mammals are cage or box type traps and common rat traps. Hancock and Bailey traps may be used only when the trapper Mink*, River Otter* Nov. 1 – Dec. 15 has been trained in their use, and may be used only for taking Jan. 1 – April 15 beaver. A trapper using these traps must possess a certificate Beaver* Nov. 1 – April 15, 2015 of course completion. Common rat traps may be used for the Muskrat, Opossum, Jan. 1 – Feb. 28 taking of weasels only. Raccoon, Skunk Nov. 1 – Feb. 28, 2015 Steel-jaw foothold traps, padded jaw traps, body-gripping (Conibear) traps (see below), snares, deadfalls, and any traps * Pelt sealing required; see page 42. other than those specified above are prohibited. Such traps may not be set, tended, used, or possessed in the field. MANDATORY TRAPPER EDUCATION There is a detailed procedure for obtaining a special permit to First time trappers and Problem Animal Control agents are use a body gripping (Conibear) trap for certain types of wildlife required to successfully complete a Trapper Education course damage. Contact your local DFW District Office for details. from any U.S. state and be issued a certificate of completion of such training in order to obtain a trap registration certificate. STAKING is not a recognized practice and conveys no special To be notified about DFW Trapper Education courses call trapping privileges. the Hunter Education program at (978) 772-0693 or fill out a course notification form online at the DFW website. There is STOLEN TRAPS: A trapper must report the loss or theft of a trap also mandatory training for anyone planning to use a Bailey or in writing to the Office of Law Enforcement within 48 hours Hancock trap. Bailey and Hancock traps may not be used, set, of the loss or theft, or remain responsible for its use. The report tended, or placed unless the trapper has successfully completed should include the number and type of traps, the date, time, training in their use. The Bailey and Hancock certificate must be place and circumstances of the loss or theft. Such reports must BL-14H 7x4.75C 11/12/13 8:04 PM Page 1

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2014 Guide to Hunting, Fishing and Trapping 41 1 number, including letter and figures, must be at least ⁄8 inches high and legible at all times. The trap must also have attached a metal tag bearing the owner’s name, town and registration number. Once obtained, your registration number is yours for life, but must be renewed every two years. To trap on another's land, a trapper must maintain a current certification of that Bill Byrne registration number. Registration numbers are available from the Boston office of the DFW. The initial fee for trap registration be signed under the pains and penalties of perjury. Stolen traps is $5.00. Renewal fee is $5.00. Make check payable to Comm. should be reported to: of MA—DFW.

COASTAL LAW ENFORCEMENT: INLAND LAW ENFORCEMENT: PELT CHECKING/REPORTING Mass. Environmental Police Mass. Environmental Police Coyote, fox, fisher, beaver, bobcat, river otter, and mink must Office of Law Enforcement Office of Law Enforcement be checked within 4 working days of the end of their respective Attn: Trap Loss Attn: Trap Loss seasons. Furbearers/pelts must be checked at an official check Bldg. #45, 349 Lincoln St. 183 Milk Street station or may be checked online (except bobcat and otter). For Hingham, MA 02043 Westborough, MA 01581 detailed information on Online Game Check, visit the Game Check Station page on www.mass.gov/masswildlife; visit the MassFishHunt System online at www.mass.gov/massfishhuntto BOBCAT report your harvest online. Once you are issued a harvest con- Bobcat may be taken by trapping or salvaged in Wildlife Man- firmation number, write it on a tag of your own making and agement Zones 1–8. All bobcats taken or salvaged must be attach it to the pelt/carcass. Confirmation numbers must remain checked within 4 working days of the end of the season (see attached to all pelts/carcasses for which they were specifically page 42) at an official check station. Bobcats cannot be re- issued until the pelt/carcass is prepared for mounting by a ported online. taxidermist or the pelt is sold or tanned. Bobcat and river otter cannot be reported online. Take all bobcat and river SALE OF PELTS otter to an official check station within 4 working days of EXPORTING RAW FURS: When shipping raw fur pelts by any carrier, the end of the season. You will be issued a plastic seal for the contents of the package and the shipper’s hunting or trapping bobcat and river otter. license number must be listed on the outside of the package. The destruction or removal of any identifying tag or label that FURBEARER CHECK STATIONS is attached to a container in which skins are shipped is unlawful. Check stations are located at all Wildlife District offices, and All river otter and bobcat require CITES tags to be lawfully the Bitzer and Sunderland State Fish Hatcheries (Monday–Fri- exported for sale. Contact DFW District office for these tags. day excluding holidays). See list below. Coyotes may be re- ported/checked online or at other locations; visit our website at PELTS of coyote, wild fox, wild mink, gray wolf, bobcat, lynx, www.mass.gov/masswildlife or call the DFW Field Headquarters fisher, marten, river otter, or beaver may not be sold in Mas- for further information. Call check station prior to bringing sachusetts unless tagged by the state or province of origin. animals for sealing. LAW ENFORCEMENT AND REPORTING VIOLATIONS Know the current laws and regulations before you trap. If you are aware of illegal trapping activities, or suspect FURBEARER CHECK STATIONS a violation of any wildlife law, Environmental Police Check stations are open Monday–Friday Officers can be reached at (800) 632-8075 (toll free) (excluding holidays). Call check stations prior or (617) 727-6398. to bringing pelts in for sealing. Some deer VIOLATIONS AND PENALTIES: Trapping licenses can be revoked check stations may also check coyotes. for one year in addition to other penalties and fines as well The following are Division furbearer check as restitutions of up to $1000 and/or six months in jail. stations: Traps and other equipment can be seized and forfeited to Western District—Dalton (413) 684-1646 the Commonwealth. In addition, Problem Animal Control Conn. Valley District—Belchertown (413) 323-7632 Licenses and/or Furbuyer licenses can be revoked, plus fines and penalties assessed, and additionally, fur products can be Central District—West Boylston (508) 835-3607 seized and forfeited to the Commonwealth. Northeast District—Ayer (978) 772-2145 Southeast District—Buzzards Bay (508) 759-3406 TRAP REGISTRATION Sunderland Hatchery—Sunderland (413) 665-4680 All traps used on the land of another must have a valid reg- Bitzer Fish Hatchery—Montague (413) 367-2477 istration number embedded or cut into the trap. The assigned

42 www.mass.gov/masswildlife MA Division of Fisheries & Wildlife Trapping TRAPPING PROHIBITIONS—IT IS ILLEGAL TO: 11 Trap with a Bailey or Hancock beaver trap or other suitcase 1 Trap before 6:00am on opening day of any trapping season. type cage trap of similar design without having completed a training session and having been issued a certificate 2 Possess or have under control a trap on land of another of completion as provided for in 321 CMR 3.02(5)(c)2., in any place where fur-bearing mammals might be found or to fail to carry such certificate on one's person when between April 16 of any year and 6:00am on the follow- using such traps. ing November 1. 12 Fail to visit all traps staked out, set, used, tended, placed, 3 Possess the green pelt of any fur-bearing mammal or any or maintained, and remove all animals trapped at least part of such pelt except during the open season for such once in each calendar day between the hours of 4:00am mammal and for ten days thereafter. and 10:00pm. 4 Possess or have under his control an unregistered trap 13 Destroy, mutilate, spring, or remove the trap of another. on land of another. 14 Take any fur-bearing mammal from the trap of another 5 Possess or have under control the registered trap of an- unless he has on his person a specific written authorization other, unless he has entered into a trapping partnership to do so, signed by the owner of such trap. The owner of through the Boston Office as provided in M.G.L. c131 § traps may give such authorization to any person licensed 80 and 321 CMR 3.02(5)(e)14. to trap under M.G.L. c. 131 for a period not to exceed one 6 Trap on posted land of another without the written per- week from the day the traps were last tended, provided mission of the owner or tenant of such land. that notice of the giving of such authorization including 7 Trap in a public way, cart road, path or other way com- the name and trapping license number of the person so monly used as a passageway for human beings or domestic authorized shall be given to the regional Environmental animals. Police Officer and to the Director within 24 hours of the 8 Tear open, disturb, or destroy a muskrat lodge, beaver giving of such authorization. lodge or beaver dam, except as provided in 321 CMR 2.08. 15 Set, use, place, locate, tend, or maintain a trap not bear- 9 Use poison or trap with a trap designed to take more than ing on a metal tag the name, town of residence, and one mammal at a time. trap registration number of the person or persons using the same in a manner as to be legible at all times. Said 10 Trap on land with a Bailey or Hancock beaver trap or other registration number shall be permanently embedded in suitcase type cage trap of similar design, except when set or marked on the traps with letters and figures not less upon a beaver dam or beaver lodge, snag, stump, rock, 1 than ⁄8 inches high in such a manner as to be legible at or other above-water protrusion entirely or substantially all times. surrounded by water, or, when the pan of such trap is not completely submerged. 16 Trap fur-bearing mammals with any trap other than a cage or box type trap, or a common rat trap. 17 Possess any road-killed furbearers during the closed season, or possess road-killed furbearers during the open season without a valid hunting or trapping license as appropriate to that species and season. 18 Alter, tamper with, or reapply a furbearer tag or seal, or possess any altered or resealed tag, or possess any pelt bearing an altered or resealed tag or seal.

PROBLEM ANIMAL CONTROL AGENTS RABIES Problem Animal Control (PAC) agents are private individuals Rabies in wild mammals has been confirmed licensed by the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife to assist in all counties in Massachusetts EXCEPT Dukes the public in situations involving sick animals or animals and Nantucket. Wear rubber gloves when causing property damage. If you are experiencing wildlife skinning furbearers. If you believe you have damage and wish to contract with a PAC agent, a listing can been exposed to a rabid animal, scrub the be found on the DFW website www.mass.gov/masswildlife. Individuals interested in becoming a PAC agent can obtain area thoroughly with soap and water and information on the permitting process from this same website, seek medical advice immediately. If possible, or call DFW Field Headquarters at (508) 389-6300. isolate and preserve the dead animal by refrigeration as soon as possible. Contact INCIDENTAL CATCH - EMERGENCY PERMIT your local Board of Health. Catch of any species other than beaver or muskrat while trapping with a 10 day emergency permit must be turned over to the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife.

2014 Guide to Hunting, Fishing and Trapping 43 Building with our own Resources

The new DFW Field Headquarters in Westborough will feature some wood products harvested from our own Wildlife Management Areas to improve habitat for the benefit of wildlife. Cut and processed by local companies, the native red oak and cherry lumber in the new building will be enjoyed by the public for many decades to come.

It was early, even for the birds, on a crisp blue the woodstove in Jim’s leaning, rustic cabin of of the art facility will contain a unique connec- winter morning when DFW Photographer Bill an office that morning because we were fol- tion to local forest products, local businesses, Byrne and I arrived at Jim Conkey’s sawmill on lowing a story…a story about wood…a story and to DFW habitat management for declining Old North Dana Road in New Salem, MA. C & M about wildlife…and a story about community. native wildlife species.. Rough Cut is nestled in the woods just a stone’s You may have heard about the new DFW Black cherry and northern red oak trees throw from the banks of the Quabbin Reser- Field Headquarters building that is slated for that were harvested from two different DFW vior. A small sign at the corner of Old North its grand opening sometime this spring in habitat management projects in the winter of Dana Road and Route 122 indicates that you Westborough, MA. Funded through an envi- 2012-2013 will be used in the new building. are headed in the right direction, but if you’re ronmental bond enacted by the legislature Hand- and guardrails are being milled from not careful you might drive right past the simple and capital funding made available to DFG and black cherry harvested during a shrubland dirt driveway and mailbox that reads “Conkey” DFW by Governor Patrick, the building will be restoration project at our Stafford Hill Wildlife in faded metal lettering. This small-scale sawmill the first zero net energy state office building Management Area (WMA) in Cheshire. Rec- has stood in the same location for more than 30 in the Commonwealth (see www.mass.gov/ lamation of abandoned agricultural fields at years, though Jim can tell you stories about the anf/property-mgmt-and-construction/design- Stafford Hill have restored approximately 240 days before log trucks when this sawmill, like and-construction-of-public-bldgs/current-and- acres of valuable shrubland habitat to support most, was transported from timber harvest to completed-projects/environmental-projects/ declining wildlife species such as eastern to- timber harvest to process local forest products. division-of-fisheries-and-wildlife-field-head- whee, chestnut-sided warbler, and American There are plenty of good reasons to stop and quarters-b.html). It will utilize innovative tech- woodcock. In addition, the library flooring is visit Jim, maybe you need firewood to heat your nologies including a geothermal heating and being milled from northern red oak harvested home, or some rough cut lumber to start a new cooling system and solar photovoltaics, and it as part of a habitat management project at our project, or maybe like us you’re looking for a will be Leadership in Energy & Environmental Phillipston WMA in Phillipston. Last winter’s story. Bill and I found ourselves huddled around Design (LEED) certified. It will also include larg- timber harvest at Phillipston helped address er meeting and classroom spaces, increasing a public safety issue related to winter icing on DFW’s capacity to offer and facilitate training Queen Lake Road (Route 101). DFW removed and education programs. In addition, this state softwood trees along the south side of the road to reduce shading that was creating danger- ous driving conditions. This same project also

44 www.mass.gov/masswildlife MA Division of Fisheries & Wildlife created approximately 40 acres of young for- est habitat on abandoned agricultural lands that was dominated by mature white pine to promote regeneration of mast producing trees (i.e., red and white oak) and to increase fruit production of soft mast producing shrubs, especially blueberry, for the benefit of many wildlife species including deer and bear. Long- time Phillipston residents and neighbors to the WMA recount stories of picking blueberries and listening to the sounds of whip-poor-wills at this site during their childhood. As a result of the timber harvest, blueberries may once again become plentiful at the site. In addition to creating valuable wildlife hab- itat and sustainably harvested wood for the new building, these projects also supported local jobs. TR Land Works, LLC out of Hartford, CT completed the work at our Stafford Hill WMA and Sawyer's Trucking and Logging out of Hubbardston, MA completed the work at our Phillipston WMA. Forest products including hardwood firewood, sawlogs, and low-quality softwood chips were generated from these projects. The firewood was processed to be sold to local residents for winter heating. The chipwood was utilized by Pinetree Power, a local power plant in Westminister, MA to generate electricity. The majority of the sawlogs were trucked to mills in New Hampshire, Maine or Canada for processing into dimensional lumber (i.e., 2’’x4’’ boards). Unfortunately, the majority of dimensional lumber that originates in Mas- sachusetts is trucked out of state to be pro- cessed, and subsequently trucked back into Massachusetts to be sold as finished boards, or more commonly, is sold elsewhere. This situation is the result of a local economy that does not generate enough support for sawmill operations in the Commonwealth. Sadly, not tion. However, it was only a short time before agr/cqp/sectors/forestry/index.htm) Lashway only does this result in an increased carbon Jim looked at the thermometer and decided it Lumber strives to meet the highest environ- footprint for each piece of lumber we use, but had warmed up enough to start the equipment mental stewardship standards when it comes it also results in significant loss of jobs as they for the day’s work. Jim’s mill processes about to timber harvesting and the production of are increasingly moving out of state. While we 100,000 board feet annually, much less than it forest products. While the firm took a hard hit have excelled at reviving other markets (like the used to when business was better, but enough in the recession, its owners turned an obstacle local food market) we are failing to support our to sustain the company. The lumberyard is into an opportunity and began to diversify local forest products market in a state that is always kept tidy and organized. It is a place their business. Investing in Vacutherm Vacu- greater than 60% forested. where you can feel good about doing business. press kilns, fast-drying and energy efficient, The cherry and oak logs for the new build- After the rough cutting was complete, the they are now able to meet a diverse array of ing were processed at local Massachusetts oak and cherry were trucked to Lashway custom kiln drying needs, including anything sawmills. Rough cutting of the sawlogs was Lumber in Williamsburg, MA for kiln drying. from major league baseball bat billets to fin- completed by Jim Conkey at C&M Rough Cut. Lashway Lumber has been family owned for gerboards for major guitar companies. Jim's grandfather and father were both saw- four generations. Currently, Gerald Lashway By the time you read this the flooring will mill operators before him, and his brother is co-owns the sawmill with his two sons, Larry have been processed at Ponders Hollow and a full time logger running some of the most and Gerry. Larry now runs Lashway Lumber trucked to the new building in Westborough high-tech logging equipment in Massachusetts and Gerry runs the Ponders Hollow mill in for installation. But the story doesn’t end (John Conkey & Sons Logging). Though Jim Westfield, MA specializing in custom flooring there; it doesn’t end with the hand- and Conkey initially didn’t care for the lumber busi- and millwork. After kiln drying was completed guardrails or the library flooring. Now it is ness and joined the military in the 1960’s, he in Williamsburg, the red oak moved to the up to the rest of us to ensure that sustain- came back to the mill life over 40 years ago and Westfield mill for tongue & groove process- ably harvested local forest products are avail- has been with it ever since. Jim is a humble, no ing as floorboards. As Bill and I followed the able in the Commonwealth. It is up to us to nonsense kind of man. He is weathered from story of this wood we had a chance to tour the support a local market that demonstrates years of hard work, but that doesn’t hide the Williamsburg mill with Larry. Larry is jovial and responsible stewardship of our forest lands, playful twinkle in his eye or the gently sloping poignantly honest. He believes in the business to support local jobs for our neighbors, and smile that is always perched across his lips. he has worked so hard for his entire life, and he to reduce the carbon footprint of the very Bill and I were lucky enough to arrive at the believes in a sustainable local forest economy. materials that sustain the structure of our mill early on a winter morning; early enough to The story of Lashway Lumber is truly an lives. Look for an update on the wood for enjoy a few of Jim’s stories by the woodstove inspiring one. As a member of the Common- the new building in a future edition of Mas- before the equipment could be put into opera- wealth Quality Program (see www.mass.gov/ sachusetts Wildlife magazine.

2014 Guide to Hunting, Fishing and Trapping 45 Outdoor Skills Programs

The Division of Fisheries & Wildlife offers a wide range of outdoor skills and proficiency in the use of shotgun, rifle, wildlife education programs. With suitable lead time, programs can be adapted to archery equipment, map and compass, the needs of virtually any group. More details about the programs can be found in and more. Participants also complete the Education area of the DFW website at www.mass.gov/masswildlife. the state’s Basic Hunter Education and Boat Safety programs. Program is held ANGLER EDUCATION PROGRAM: Teaches anyone wishing to enjoy outdoor pursuits. in August. Phone (508) 389-6300. people of all ages, especially children, Designed primarily for women, it is an about fish and their environment. The opportunity for anyone 18 years of age YOUTH PHEASANT AND TURKEY HUNT: program focuses on freshwater fishing or older who may have never tried these Designed for Hunter Education graduates skills, basic safety techniques, outdoor activities, but wants an opportunity to 12-17 years of age, these programs are ethics, and aquatic ecology through learn. A sampling of one day or weekend supported by the Division and conducted workshop sessions and family fishing workshop offerings may include basic by sporting clubs across the state. This festivals. For more information, call fishing, beginning shotgun, kayaking, program includes instruction on firearms (508) 389-6309. map & compass, wildlife tracking, safety in the field; safe, supervised archery, pond and stream adventures, shooting instruction and practice prior BECOMING AN OUTDOORS-WOMAN: This nature photography, fly tying, outdoor to a hunt; application of field techniques program focuses on the learning of and game cooking, and edible plants. learned in the hunter education course; outdoor skills - skills traditionally passed Workshop notices are sent by email and lessons on hunting ethics and behavior; from father to son - but valuable to posted on www.mass.gov/masswildlife in training on hunting regulations and the Education area. For more information, safety; and instruction on how to clean and call (508) 389-6300. prepare game. The program culminates in a safe, supervised hunt under the HUNTER EDUCATION PROGRAM: Provides guidance of an experienced, responsible Win a $100 Gift Card! courses in the safe handling of firearms, adult hunter. The youth pheasant hunts Take the monthly and other outdoor activities related to are conducted on one of the six Saturdays hunting and firearm use. Designed for prior to the start of the regular hunting novices, courses in Basic Hunter Edu- season. The youth turkey hunt, developed cation, Bowhunter Education, Trapper through a partnership with the National Education, and others are offered state- Wild Turkey Federation, allows for a wide throughout the year. Certificates in mentored hunt on the Saturday prior to certain courses satisfy hunting license the last Monday in April. After completion requirements for Massachusetts as well as of the pre-hunt workshop, a special permit And be entered to win other states and Canadian provinces. For will be issued to the participating youths a $100 gift certificate to your more information, call (978) 772-0693. that allows for a mentored hunt on the sporting good retailer of choice. Saturday prior to the last Monday in MASS. JUNIOR CONSERVATION CAMP: A two April. This permit remains valid for the Your anonymous participation advances week residential program for boys and regular spring turkey season following the fish and wildlife conservation, helps girls ages 13–17 that provides a solid youth hunt date. To find a participating protect your right to hunt, fish and shoot, grounding in outdoor activities and and guides companies in developing sporting club check the DFW website skills. Participants learn about fisheries, better outdoor products. at www.mass.gov/masswildlife in the wildlife, forestry, and camping, and gain Education area or call (508) 389-6305. 46 www.mass.gov/masswildlife MA Division of Fisheries & Wildlife THE MASSACHUSETTS OUTDOOR EXPOSITION The Massachusetts Outdoor Exposition, or "The Big MOE" for short, is a one day, annual event, free to the public, designed to allow children and adults to sample a great variety of traditional outdoor sports. Produced by the nonprofit FAWN Society in cooperation with the DFW and many sportsmen's and conservation organizations. The big MOE provides the opportunity to try various shooting and fishing sports, archery, game calling, mountain biking, kayaking, bird house building, rock climbing, and geocaching, and also offers hands-on instruction and displays in forestry, trapping, tree stand safety, pioneer encampments, tomahawk throwing, native reptiles, birds of prey, wildlife conservation, animal tracking, taxidermy, farm animals, arts and crafts, beekeeping, and much more. Typically held on the Hamilton Rod & Gun Club grounds in Sturbridge, MA, on the last Sunday in September, for up-to-date information please visit www.FawnsExpo.com.

Educator's Corner

ARCHERY IN THE SCHOOLS: The National • Project WILD and Aquatic WILD work- NORTH AMERICAN CONSERVATION EDUCATION Archery in the Schools Program in shops are interdisciplinary, hands-on STRATEGY RESOURCES (CE STRATEGY): An Massachusetts is an archery program learning opportunities for educators of array of tools and resources developed by developed for educators to provide K-12 level students focusing on terrestrial state fish and wildlife agencies support students in grades 4-12 with an exposure and aquatic wildlife and ecosystems. The conservation educators who offer fish & to a fun, alternative sport that can be curriculums encourage problem-solving wildlife based programs that guide students enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities. and decision-making skills concerning in grades K-12 on their way to becoming Taught primarily by physical education the environment. Scout leaders, youth involved, responsible, conservation minded teachers, the program also includes social group leaders, homeschoolers, and both citizens. The CE Strategy delivers unified, studies, mathematics and physics. This formal and non-formal educators find research-based Core Concepts and messages program is a partnership between the the materials and workshop valuable. about fish and wildlife conservation, DFW, National Archery in the Schools, • Flying WILD is a whole-school approach translated into K-12 academic standards the Archery Trade Association and local to environmental education using birds to shape students’ environmental literacy, sporting groups. Training is provided as the focus. Targeted for the middle- stewardship and outdoor skills. Resources by the DFW to educators to various school level audience, though widely included in the tool kit include: landscape schools systems and some funding may adaptable, Flying WILD offers practical, investigation, schoolyard biodiversity, field be available for equipment. For more hands-on classroom and outdoor field- investigation, fostering outdoor observation information, call (508) 389-6305. investigation experiences connecting skills, applying systems thinking, and much real-world experiences in bird biology, more. Download these free resources at PROJECT WILD IN MASSACHUSETTS: A national conservation, and natural history. www.fishwildlife.org; click on Focus Areas, program of wildlife education workshops Project-based classroom applications, then Conservation Education. designed for educators of a wide range of service learning, and community in- ages, from pre-school to high school. Hours volvement are encouraged. spent may be used toward professional development or other continuing education credit. Co-sponsored by the Massachusetts JUNIOR DUCK STAMP Wildlife Federation. For information on attending or hosting a workshop, call (508) The Junior Duck Stamp Conservation and Design Program ; Connecting Children with Nature Through 389-6310. Science and Art is a dynamic arts and science curriculum for educators designed to teach wetland • Growing Up WILD : Exploring Nature habitat and waterfowl conservation to students With Children(Ages 3-7 Years) This in K-12. Using scientific and wildlife observation workshop is designed for early child- principles, the program helps students to visually communicate what they have learned by creating hood educators with activities that build an entry to the state's JDS contest. Guidelines & on children’s sense of wonder about curriculum for students, educators, homeschool and nature and invites them to explore non-formal groups designed to spark youth interest wildlife and the world around them. in habitat conservation through science, art, math, Congratulations to Xiaomei Educators experience a wide range of and technology can be downloaded at www.fws. Chen whose acrylic painting of gov/juniorduck. Co-sponsored by the USFWS and a Northern Pintail drake was activities that provide a foundation for the Massachusetts Wildlife Federation. For more selected as Best of Show in the developing a child’s positive impression information, call (508) 389-6310. 2013 Junior Duck Stamp Program. about nature.

2014 Guide to Hunting, Fishing and Trapping 47 Office of Law Enforcement—Environmental Police

TO REPORT VIOLATIONS SPECIAL OPERATIONS: Hyannis Radio Room BOAT AND RECREATION 60 Perseverance Way, Suite 101 (800) 632-8075 VEHICLE SAFETY BUREAU and Hyannis, MA 02601 MARINE THEFT BUREAU (508) 771-8382 www.mass.gov/ole Captain Merri Walker (508) 771-2334 fax State Boating Law Administrator Springfield Inland Office: (508) 366-6537 165 Liberty Street, Lower Level OFFICE OF LAW Lt. Michael Grady Springfield, MA 01103 ENFORCEMENT(BOSTON) Boat & Recreation Vehicle Office: (413) 733-1642 Colonel Aaron Gross, Director (508) 564-4961 (413) 733-2154 fax Lieutenant Colonel Chris Baker, Worcester Deputy Director Sgt. Scott Maher 67 Millbrook Street (617) 626-1650 Marine Theft Bureau Suite 350, 3rd Floor (617) 626-1670 fax 251 Causeway Street, Suite 101 Worcester, MA 01606 251 Causeway Street, Suite 100 Boston, MA 02114 (508) 753-0603 Boston, MA 02114 (617) 626-1666 (508) 752-6132 fax

INLAND LAW ENFORCEMENT ENVIRONMENTAL CRIMES Inland Bureau Headquarters STRIKE FORCE Major Wilton F. Gray III Sergeant David Loos Inland Bureau Chief (617) 727-2200 Captain Robert Forsythe (617) 727-5755 fax Inland Deputy Bureau Chief 1 Ashburton Place (508) 366-1176 Boston, MA 02108 (508) 366-6537 (508) 366-1182 fax 183 Milk Street BOAT AND RECREATION Westborough, MA 01581 VEHICLE OFFICE (508) 564-4961 (508) 564-4962 SALVAGE OF COASTAL LAW ENFORCEMENT (508) 564-4963 Coastal Bureau Headquarters (508) 564-4964 fax DEER & MOOSE Major Len Roberts 5202 Ent Steet, ROAD-KILLED DEER may be Coastal Bureau Chief Buzzards Bay, MA 02542 kept by a Massachusetts driver (781) 740-2577 or passenger of vehicle killing (781) 740-2442 said deer if reported to Law (781) 740-1163 BOAT, ATV, and SNOWMOBILE Enforcement at (800) 632-8075 (781) 740-4113 fax REGISTRATION OFFICES immediately and then tagged 30 Shipyard Drive, Building 45 Boston at a DFW or Environmental Hingham, MA 02043 251 Causeway St., Suite 100 Police office within 24 hours. Boston, MA 02114 Captain Patrick Moran ROAD-KILLED MOOSE may not (617) 626-1610 Coastal Deputy Bureau Chief be kept by a Massachusetts (617) 626-1630 fax (508) 992-8321 driver or passenger of the (508) 992-8323 fax Fall River vehicle killing the moose. 218 South Main Street, 3rd Floor The disposition of any moose Fall River, MA 02721 carcass is only at the discretion (508) 679-8287 of the Environmental Police (508) 679-0060 fax or the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife. To report a road- killed moose, call the DFW at (508) 389-6300. www.mass.gov/ole

48 www.mass.gov/masswildlife MA Division of Fisheries & Wildlife FOOD & GAME PROCESSING HUNTING PRODUCTS

Paradox Rifled Shotgun Barrels Diagonally- Current Inventory at ported specialty www.HastingsDistribution.com chokes for turkey, deer, Phone 717.524.5301 duck and clays. Email [email protected]

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Whitetail Deer Hunts on private and public land of the Hamptons. Exeptional accomodations and guide service. Call for information and pricing: 917-776-9169 49 TAXIDERMY RETAILERS Morse Sporting Goods Archery Pro Shop • Hunting/Fishing Supplies Clinics and New/Used Guns/Ammo group parties 3D Course • Clothing/Boots for Ages 6 -16 85 Contoocook Falls Road • Hillsboro, NH 03244 (K-9th grade) 603-464-3444 9–6 Monday–Saturday • 9–noon Sunday Fishing • Archery • Hiking • Canoeing www.morsesportinggoods.com Kayaking • Map & Compass • Camping Award-Winning Skills Wilderness Survival & More Richie’s Sporting Supply Taxidermy FIN & FEATHER SPORTS 217 Mouse Mill Road · Westport, MA · 02790 10 Milford Street, Upton, MA Shoulder Mounts (508) 529-3901 Hunting & Fishing Supplies Lifesize · Fish · Birds www.finandfeathersports.com Trip Planning | Gunsmith Services 5825 Rt. 100 · Whitingham, VT · 802.368.7874 Live Bait • Fishing Tackle • Hunting Equipment 508.636.3395 RichiesSportingSupply.com

John Corliss, Proprietor orth Shore 3 Arrow (603) 239-4032 Taxidermy Studio Rte. 10, Winchester, NH 03470 N Firearms Michael Sheppard World and Regional (978) 777-5151 Award-winning Largest Inventory of New & Used Guns Email: [email protected] Taxidermy in the Greater Keene Area! www.northshorefirearms.com Vincent Kersey 251 South Main Street (Route 114) Middleton, MA 01949 66 Chapin St. Ludlow, MA 01056 (across from Elks Club) LAND MANAGEMENT By Appointment 24/7 413-262-6628 For Pond & Lake reeArrowTaxidermy.com Weed Removal WeedGatorWEED - e #1 alternative to chemicals! The #1 alternative to chemicals Bald Peak Mountain TAXIDERMY Specializing in Quality Deer & Fish Skin & Reproduction Mounts • Antler Repairs Performs C.P.R. on your989-529-3992 waterfront 85 Reimers Rd · Monson, MA · 01057 CUTSwww.weedgator.net • PULLS John Candage · 413.267.0284 · Cell 203.410.9174 RAKES 989-529-3992 www.weedgator.net

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Photocopy, or Clip and Mail! Subscribe today to your outdoor magazine. Yes! I want Massachusetts Wildlife! Send check or money order to: Start my subscription with the next issue. Massachusetts Wildlife Name Division of Fisheries & Wildlife Address 251 Causeway St., Suite 400, Boston, MA 02114 Attn: Magazine Sales City State Zip (make checks out to Comm. of MA–DFW–magazine) AB2011

51 Sunrise-Sunset 2014 SUNRISE-SUNSET TABLE for WORCESTER, Massachusetts

January February March April May June July August September October November December Day Rise Set Rise Set Rise Set Rise Set Rise Set Rise Set Rise Set Rise Set Rise Set Rise Set Rise Set Rise Set AM PM AM PM AM PM AM PM AM PM AM PM AM PM AM PM AM PM AM PM AM PM AM PM 1 7:16 4:26 7:01 5:02 6:23 5:37 5:30 6:13 4:43 6:47 4:13 7:17 4:15 7:28 4:40 7:06 5:13 6:21 5:44 5:29 6:20 4:41 6:56 4:16 2 7:16 4:27 7:00 5:03 6:21 5:38 5:28 6:14 4:41 6:48 4:13 7:18 4:15 7:27 4:41 7:05 5:14 6:19 5:45 5:27 6:22 4:40 6:58 4:16 3 7:16 4:28 6:58 5:04 6:19 5:40 5:26 6:15 4:40 6:49 4:12 7:19 4:16 7:27 4:42 7:04 5:15 6:18 5:46 5:25 6:23 4:38 6:59 4:15 4 7:16 4:28 6:57 5:05 6:18 5:41 5:25 6:16 4:39 6:50 4:12 7:19 4:16 7:27 4:43 7:03 5:16 6:16 5:48 5:24 6:24 4:37 7:00 4:15 5 7:16 4:29 6:56 5:07 6:16 5:42 5:23 6:17 4:38 6:51 4:12 7:20 4:17 7:27 4:44 7:02 5:17 6:14 5:49 5:22 6:25 4:36 7:01 4:15 6 7:16 4:30 6:55 5:08 6:14 5:43 5:21 6:19 4:36 6:52 4:11 7:21 4:17 7:26 4:45 7:00 5:18 6:13 5:50 5:20 6:27 4:35 7:01 4:15 7 7:16 4:31 6:54 5:09 6:13 5:44 5:20 6:20 4:35 6:53 4:11 7:21 4:18 7:26 4:46 6:59 5:19 6:11 5:51 5:19 6:28 4:34 7:02 4:15 8 7:16 4:32 6:53 5:11 6:11 5:46 5:18 6:21 4:34 6:54 4:11 7:22 4:19 7:26 4:47 6:58 5:20 6:09 5:52 5:17 6:29 4:32 7:03 4:15 9 7:16 4:34 6:51 5:12 6:09 5:47 5:16 6:22 4:33 6:55 4:11 7:23 4:19 7:25 4:48 6:57 5:21 6:07 5:53 5:15 6:30 4:31 7:04 4:15 10 7:15 4:35 6:50 5:13 6:08 5:48 5:15 6:23 4:32 6:56 4:10 7:23 4:20 7:25 4:49 6:55 5:22 6:06 5:54 5:13 6:32 4:30 7:05 4:15 11 7:15 4:36 6:49 5:15 6:06 5:49 5:13 6:24 4:30 6:58 4:10 7:24 4:21 7:24 4:50 6:54 5:23 6:04 5:55 5:12 6:33 4:29 7:06 4:15 12 7:15 4:37 6:48 5:16 6:04 5:50 5:11 6:25 4:29 6:59 4:10 7:24 4:22 7:24 4:51 6:52 5:24 6:02 5:57 5:10 6:34 4:28 7:07 4:15 13 7:14 4:38 6:46 5:17 6:03 5:51 5:10 6:26 4:28 7:00 4:10 7:25 4:22 7:23 4:52 6:51 5:25 6:00 5:58 5:09 6:35 4:27 7:08 4:15 14 7:14 4:39 6:45 5:18 6:01 5:53 5:08 6:28 4:27 7:01 4:10 7:25 4:23 7:23 4:54 6:50 5:26 5:59 5:59 5:07 6:37 4:26 7:08 4:15 15 7:14 4:40 6:44 5:20 5:59 5:54 5:07 6:29 4:26 7:02 4:10 7:25 4:24 7:22 4:55 6:48 5:27 5:57 6:00 5:05 6:38 4:25 7:09 4:16 16 7:13 4:41 6:42 5:21 5:58 5:55 5:05 6:30 4:25 7:03 4:10 7:26 4:25 7:21 4:56 6:47 5:28 5:55 6:01 5:04 6:39 4:25 7:10 4:16 17 7:13 4:43 6:41 5:22 5:56 5:56 5:03 6:31 4:24 7:04 4:10 7:26 4:26 7:21 4:57 6:45 5:29 5:53 6:02 5:02 6:40 4:24 7:10 4:16 18 7:12 4:44 6:39 5:24 5:54 5:57 5:02 6:32 4:23 7:05 4:10 7:27 4:27 7:20 4:58 6:44 5:30 5:52 6:03 5:01 6:41 4:23 7:11 4:17 19 7:11 4:45 6:38 5:25 5:52 5:58 5:00 6:33 4:22 7:06 4:10 7:27 4:28 7:19 4:59 6:42 5:31 5:50 6:05 4:59 6:43 4:22 7:12 4:17 20 7:11 4:46 6:36 5:26 5:51 5:59 4:59 6:34 4:21 7:07 4:11 7:27 4:28 7:18 5:00 6:41 5:32 5:48 6:06 4:58 6:44 4:22 7:12 4:17 21 7:10 4:47 6:35 5:27 5:49 6:01 4:57 6:35 4:21 7:08 4:11 7:27 4:29 7:17 5:01 6:39 5:34 5:46 6:07 4:56 6:45 4:21 7:13 4:18 22 7:09 4:49 6:33 5:29 5:47 6:02 4:56 6:37 4:20 7:09 4:11 7:27 4:30 7:17 5:02 6:37 5:35 5:45 6:08 4:55 6:46 4:20 7:13 4:18 23 7:09 4:50 6:32 5:30 5:45 6:03 4:54 6:38 4:19 7:10 4:11 7:28 4:31 7:16 5:03 6:36 5:36 5:43 6:09 4:53 6:47 4:20 7:14 4:19 24 7:08 4:51 6:30 5:31 5:44 6:04 4:53 6:39 4:18 7:10 4:12 7:28 4:32 7:15 5:04 6:34 5:37 5:41 6:11 4:52 6:49 4:19 7:14 4:20 25 7:07 4:53 6:29 5:32 5:42 6:05 4:51 6:40 4:17 7:11 4:12 7:28 4:33 7:14 5:05 6:33 5:38 5:39 6:12 4:50 6:50 4:18 7:15 4:20 26 7:06 4:54 6:27 5:33 5:40 6:06 4:50 6:41 4:17 7:12 4:12 7:28 4:34 7:13 5:06 6:31 5:39 5:38 6:13 4:49 6:51 4:18 7:15 4:21 27 7:05 4:55 6:26 5:35 5:38 6:07 4:48 6:42 4:16 7:13 4:13 7:28 4:35 7:12 5:07 6:29 5:40 5:36 6:14 4:47 6:52 4:17 7:15 4:22 28 7:04 4:56 6:24 5:36 5:37 6:08 4:47 6:43 4:16 7:14 4:13 7:28 4:36 7:11 5:08 6:28 5:41 5:34 6:15 4:46 6:53 4:17 7:15 4:22 29 7:04 4:58 5:35 6:10 4:45 6:44 4:15 7:15 4:14 7:28 4:37 7:10 5:09 6:26 5:42 5:32 6:17 4:45 6:54 4:17 7:16 4:23 30 7:03 4:59 5:33 6:11 4:44 6:46 4:14 7:16 4:14 7:28 4:38 7:09 5:10 6:25 5:43 5:31 6:18 4:43 6:55 4:16 7:16 4:24 31 7:02 5:00 5:32 6:12 4:14 7:16 4:39 7:08 5:11 6:23 6:19 4:42 7:16 4:25

Table is EASTERN STANDARD TIME. Add 1 hour for daylight savings time, if and when in use. BOSTON subtract 3 minutes; SPRINGFIELD add 3 minutes; PITTSFIELD add 7 minutes. Source: U. S. Naval Observatory, Astronomical Applications Department, Washington, D.C. 20392-5420

DO YOU WANT TO KNOW WHERE TO GO FISHING OR BOATING? Public Access to the Waters of Massachusetts is a 146 page map booklet that provides information about current fishing and boating access sites. Send $8.00 payable by check to: Office of Fishing & Boating Access Department of Fish & Game 1440 Soldiers Field Road Brighton, MA 02135 For more information call (617) 727-1843, or see www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/dfg/fba/

52 www.mass.gov/masswildlife MA Division of Fisheries & Wildlife 2014 Guide to Hunting, Fishing and Trapping 53