Maine's early raccoon, fox and coyote trapping season opened statewide Oct. 18 and runs through Oct. 31.
The Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife lists the early raccoon season as a new provision for 2026-27. It coincides with the existing early season for foxes and coyotes.
The early-season restrictions continue to apply: no killer-type traps, no traps set in water and no exposed bait or visible attractors. Enclosed foothold traps, including the devices commonly marketed as dog-proof raccoon traps, may be used under the rules.
The broader general trapping season begins Nov. 1 and ends Dec. 31. Beaver seasons vary by wildlife management district, the numbered areas Maine uses to administer hunting and trapping rules.
The department's rules index links to license requirements, landowner-permission rules, trap-tending requirements and species-specific restrictions. Trappers should check those provisions as well as the season calendar before setting equipment.