Deer Hunting Season in Ipswich
Hunting in Massachusetts is only allowed on land with written permission of the landowner. Hunting in Ipswich on Town owned land is only allowed with a permit issued by Ipswich Police (ph. 978-356-4343) and only on specific, designated Town properties. The Town owned land where there are public trails and where hunting is allowed, only with a permit issued by the Ipswich Police, is around the Town reservoirs. These trails are open for use during hunting season, so trail users and hunters need to be cautious and aware of each other’s presence. Deer hunting season (including archery, shotgun, and primitive firearms) runs from October 2, 2023 to December 30, 2023.
Use these safety tips on trails during hunting season:
- Wear bright colors such as fluorescent orange
- Attach a bell to yourself and your dog, which should be leashed at all times, to alert hunters of your presence
- DO NOT wear white, gray, brown, or tan
- DO NOT stray from marked trails
- If you see someone hunting, call out to them to identify your location
- Hunting is not allowed on Sundays
- Familiarize yourself with the area you will be hiking
- Follow posted signage
- If you hike alone, let someone know where you’ll be and when you’ll return
In an emergency, call the Ipswich Police at 911. For hunting questions, concerns, or to report hunting violations call the Massachusetts Environmental Police, 800-632-8075. Additional information about hunting in Massachusetts can be found online: https://www.mass.gov/hunting-regulations