Goose Hunting in Maryland: A Guide to the Atlantic Flyway

Maryland is a key stop along the Atlantic Flyway, offering a mix of coastal marshes, tidal rivers, impoundments, and agricultural fields that attract wintering geese. The state sees both Canada geese and migratory specklebellies, with occasional snow geese during peak migration. Understanding Maryland’s unique geography and seasonal patterns is essential for successful goose hunting.

Hunters seeking guided access or private fields in the region can explore vetted outfitters through Find A Hunt.

Why Maryland Is Important for Goose Hunting

Maryland’s combination of wetlands, river systems, and farm fields provides ideal wintering habitat for migratory geese:

• Tidal marshes along the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries

• Managed impoundments and wildlife management areas (WMAs)

• Flooded agricultural fields producing corn, wheat, and soybeans

• Coastal estuaries and creeks for safe roosting and loafing

The state’s moderate winters and central flyway location make it a reliable destination for both early- and late-season hunting.

Key Goose Species in Maryland

Canada Geese

• Both resident and migratory populations

• Found in agricultural fields, river corridors, and tidal marshes

• Flocks vary in size—larger flocks often occupy open fields for feeding

Specklebellies (White-fronted Geese)

• Smaller, migratory flocks that feed primarily on corn and grain fields

• Warier than resident Canadas, requiring realistic decoy setups and careful calling

Snow Geese

• Occasionally seen in mid- to late-season, usually in flooded fields or tidal flats

• Large flocks demand extensive decoy spreads for effective hunting

Understanding Maryland Habitat

Coastal Marshes

• Prime for early morning roost flights

• Shallow waters and tidal flats provide both food and safety

• Use natural cover for layout blinds or small hunting platforms

Inland Agricultural Fields

• Fields with harvested corn, wheat, or soybeans are preferred feeding grounds

• Decoy setups and calling work best in open, accessible areas

• Rotate between fields to avoid over-harassing flocks

Impoundments and WMAs

• Managed for waterfowl conservation, these areas offer predictable roosting and feeding sites

• Expect hunting pressure; scouting and early arrival are critical

Scouting Strategies

• Flight Lines: Observe geese leaving roosts and returning to fields at sunrise and sunset

• Field Selection: Look for recently harvested fields or flooded areas with accessible food

• Water Access: Track tidal cycles and shallow water levels to predict landing zones

• Pressure Management: Rotate hunting areas to prevent birds from becoming wary

Decoy and Calling Tips

Decoy Placement

• Canada Geese: Use 12–24 full-body decoys, arranged in realistic family groups

• Specklebellies: Smaller, natural spreads with 8–16 decoys and a few sentries

• Snow Geese: Larger spreads with dozens to hundreds of decoys, including motion devices if legal

Calling Techniques

• Use subtle clucks and moans for wary specklebellies

• Yodels are effective for white-fronted geese

• Adjust volume and cadence to wind conditions and bird behavior

• Always complement calling with decoy realism and landing lanes

Gear Essentials

• Waterproof, insulated clothing and waders

• Shotgun suitable for steel or non-toxic shot (#1, BB, or BBB)

• Binoculars for spotting distant flocks

• Durable layout blinds or A-frame hides

• Decoys appropriate for species and field conditions

• Dry bags, gloves, and hats for comfort in marsh and field conditions

Public vs. Private Land Considerations

Private Land

• Exclusive access, less hunting pressure, predictable fields

• Outfitters can provide legal, well-managed hunting areas

• Often include multi-day options with lodging

Public WMAs

• Accessible to all hunters, may see heavy pressure

• Early scouting and arrival improve success

• Regulations may limit hunting hours, group size, or decoy setups

Seasonal Patterns

• Early Season (Late October–November): Resident Canada geese dominate; early corn fields and tidal flats are productive

• Peak Season (December–January): Migratory specklebellies and snow geese arrive; expect higher numbers and larger flocks

• Late Season (February–March): Birds disperse into smaller flocks; precision calling and realistic decoy setups become crucial

Safety and Etiquette

• Always identify your target and background

• Respect other hunters’ blinds and decoy setups

• Follow all state regulations for bag limits, shooting hours, and non-toxic shot requirements

• Avoid disturbing roosts unnecessarily

• Practice fair chase and ethical retrieval of downed birds

Frequently Asked Questions

When is peak goose season in Maryland?

December through January typically sees the highest concentrations of migratory birds.

Do I need a boat for coastal marsh hunting?

For tidal flats and river marshes, small boats or wading gear are highly recommended.

Are electronic calls legal in Maryland?

Yes, but always check local regulations as some WMAs may restrict their use.

What decoy setup works best for specklebellies?

Small, realistic spreads of 8–16 full-body decoys with a few sentries are most effective.

Should beginners hire a guide?

Yes. Guides provide access to private land, insight into local migration patterns, and training on decoy and calling techniques.

Maryland’s Atlantic Flyway offers a variety of hunting opportunities, from tidal marshes to inland fields. By combining scouting, realistic decoy placement, effective calling, and proper gear, hunters can consistently find success throughout the season. For guided hunts and private access, explore vetted outfitters and book your next hunt through Find A Hunt.