Hunting in Hanson
Experience hunting in Hanson's conservation areas and natural lands.
Kate Camerota, River, and Kyle Neal
Hunting Opportunities
Hunting is allowed on Hanson trails per State Hunting Regulations. Additional seasonal, state, and local hunting regulation specifics are located at trail head kiosks.
State Hunting Regulations
Hanson's conservation areas support hunting for various game species including deer, turkey, and small game. All hunting must comply with Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife regulations. Check trail head kiosks for specific location-based rules and current season information.
Important Requirements
- Obtain required hunting licenses and permits from Massachusetts
- Wear appropriate hunter orange as required by law
- Follow all firearm safety rules and regulations
- Hunt only during designated seasons and hours
- Respect posted signs and conservation area boundaries
- Practice ethical hunting and wildlife management principles
- Report any violations to local authorities
Conservation Areas
Many of Hanson's conservation areas permit hunting during designated seasons. Check with the town's conservation commission or visit individual conservation area sites to confirm current hunting regulations and permitted methods for each location.
Getting Started
If you're new to hunting or new to Hanson, contact the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife for information about licensing, safety courses, and current regulations. Local hunting clubs and experienced hunters in the area can also provide valuable guidance on hunting opportunities in Hanson.
Important Local Hunting Regulations
- No hunting within 500 feet of residential homes.
- Deer stands must be removed at the end of the season.
Please review all relevant Massachusetts hunting and fishing regulations: Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife - Hunting Regulations
2026 Hunting Seasons (Zone 11)
Hanson is in Zone 11. Always verify current regulations with the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife before hunting, as regulations may change.
| Season | Dates |
|---|---|
| Archery Deer Season | Oct. 5 – Nov. 28, 2026 |
| Shotgun Deer Season | Nov. 30 – Dec. 12, 2026 |
| Primitive Firearms Deer Season | Dec. 14 – Dec. 31, 2026 |
| Paraplegic Deer Hunt | Oct. 29 – Oct. 31, 2026 |
| Youth Deer Hunt | Oct. 3, 2026 |
Winter and Early Deer Seasons do not apply to Zone 11.
| Species | Dates |
|---|---|
| Black Bear | Sept. 7 – Dec. 12, 2026 |
| Wild Turkey | Apr. 27 – May 23, 2026 |
| Wild Turkey (Fall) | Oct. 5 – Nov. 28, 2026 |
| Pheasant* | Oct. 17 – Dec. 31, 2026 |
| Quail* | Oct. 17 – Dec. 31, 2026 |
| Ruffed Grouse | Oct. 17 – Nov. 28, 2026 |
| Crow* | Jan. 1 – Apr. 10, 2026 (Mon, Fri, Sat only) July 1, 2026 – Apr. 10, 2027 (Mon, Fri, Sat only) |
| Coyote | Jan. 1 – Mar. 7, 2026 Oct. 17, 2026 – Mar. 8, 2027 |
| Cottontail Rabbit* | Jan. 1 – Feb. 28, 2026 Oct. 17, 2026 – Feb. 27, 2027 |
| Fox (Red or Gray)* | Jan. 1 – Feb. 28, 2026 Nov. 2, 2026 – Feb. 27, 2027 |
| Gray Squirrel* | Jan. 1 – Feb. 28, 2026 Sept. 2, 2026 – Feb. 27, 2027 |
| Opossum* | Jan. 1 – Jan. 31, 2026 Oct. 1, 2026 – Jan. 30, 2027 |
| Raccoon* | Jan. 1 – Jan. 31, 2026 Oct. 1, 2026 – Jan. 30, 2027 |
| Snowshoe Hare* | Jan. 1 – Feb. 28, 2026 Oct. 17, 2026 – Feb. 27, 2027 |
* Closed during Shotgun Deer Season (Nov. 30 – Dec. 12, 2026).
| Youth Hunt | Dates |
|---|---|
| Youth Pheasant Hunt | Sept. 5, 12, 19 and Oct. 3, 10, 2026 |
| Youth Turkey Hunt | Apr. 25, 2026 |
May be taken year-round, except during Shotgun Deer Season (Nov. 30 – Dec. 12, 2026), by licensed hunters and falconers:
- English sparrow
- Flying squirrel
- Red squirrel
- Chipmunk
- Porcupine
- Skunk
- Starling
- Weasel
- Woodchuck
Suitable Trails for Hunting
Indian Crossway
Historic conservation area with diverse habitat for hunting opportunities.
Bonney Hill Trail
Wildlife habitat suitable for seasonal hunting with varied terrain.
Burrage Pond
Wetland habitat providing excellent hunting opportunities for waterfowl and game.
Philip Clemons
Compact conservation area with natural habitat for hunting pursuits.
Rocky Run
Diverse terrain with streams attracting game for seasonal hunting.
Poor Meadow
Open meadow habitat ideal for hunting multiple game species.
Webster-Billings
Conservation area with good habitat for seasonal hunting activities.
Town Forest
Forest habitat providing opportunities for hunting during designated seasons.
Smith Nawazelski
Community conservation area with natural habitat suitable for hunting.