The Maryland Department of Natural Resources has added a one week extension to the muskrat trapping season in all counties except Allegany, Carroll, Frederick, Garrett, Howard and Washington. The new closing date for the season is be March 21.  No other hunting or trapping seasons have been extended. 

“Muskrat trapping is culturally and economically important in many regions of Maryland,” said Robert Colona, DNR Furbearer Project Leader. “Persistent ice cover and the recent snowfall limited trapper access to many wetlands this winter. The season extension will provide added opportunity for individuals to harvest this valuable and prolific species.” 

Additional information about hunting and trapping can be found in The Guide to Hunting and Trapping in Maryland or on the DNR website www.dnr.maryland.gov/huntersguide. 

Trappers and hunters are reminded that a Furbearer Permit is now required for individuals that hunt, chase, trap or otherwise pursue furbearers. Those that wish to trap furbearers and did not possess a Furbearer Permit or certificate of trapper education prior to August 1, 2007 must also complete mandatory trapper education requirements.  

Information about Maryland’s trapper education program can be found at www.dnr.maryland.gov/nrp/education/trappered.html. Furbearer Permits may be obtained from any DNR sport license agent, online at www.dnr.maryland.gov/service/howto.asp, or by phone (1-800-918-2870).