hey all,

does anyone have a link to the page where you can print out a letter requesting permission to hunt on WMA lands? i had the link somewhere but lost it. i was thinking i could just go up to westboro headquaters on lunch and ask them myself. thanks in advance for any help.


Phirstaide

You do not require permission to hunt WMA's in Mass. All you have to do is show up.

True in NH also.

Same in Vermont.

um, actually according to this web page ( http://www.mass.gov/dcr/waterSupply/watershed/documents/wachhunt.pdf)and thewoman i talked to at DCR you DO need this permit to hunt on their Watershed lands.

Phirstaide

Watershed lands are not WMA's. They are run by DCR (former MDC) and are primarily managed for drinking water. Its been only the past 4 or so years they have allowed hunting.

Application and instructions are on this link you supplied. Just fill out and mail in.

WMA's are bought by sportsmen for sportsmen. Only permits required are hunting license w/ appropriate stampsand FID card. You do need permits to hunt bear, turkey, and does on WMA's though. WWW.MASSWILDLIFE.ORG

thanks for clarifying that up for me. i wasn't trying to step on anyone's toes when i posted this. i'm new to the game and was only trying to get more info.

again, thanks for helping out. sorry for the confusion MA Jay.

Phirstaide

No worries, Mass can be confusing.

I do think it would be in your best interest to head up to Westboro to the HQ and ask lots of questions. I did the same myself years ago when looking for some new areas and did get some good info that helped. In Mass it is always best to ask first, and make sure you keep the name of the person who told you as their internal communication rots. What one cop, epo or fish and game person may tell you as 100% true may get you a ticket form another. Having the name of the person who told you the original info can sometimes direct their frustration in that direction, and should you ever get a ticket will more than likely get you off free of charge.

The one good thing about Mass is that there really are lots of places to hunt if you do the leg work. There are tons of Landscapers in the 128 and 495 belts who have 2 dozen stands hung on properties with tons of deer. Ask around, ask everyone you know and some you don't .. mention coyotes carrying off children, Lyme disease from ticks from deer and even mention the bear in TN who killed the 6 year old, you'll be amazed at how many people will give you access, especially if you mention you are asking for permission in their particular area by request of the Fish and Game department due to an spike in risk in their particular area..... that line worked for me more than a few times!

Oh, no worries. Glad we could help. Are you hunting deer there?? Turkeys?? Not sure if you have been to the Wachusett Watershed, but its a nice string of areas and the fishing at the reservoir is very good.

jf5,

Monday I plan on going out there towards Princeton to hunt w/a buddy of mine. this past monday we were in his blind on the edge of this field and the turkeys were everywhere!!! plus we saw 5 or 6 deer too. i guess they came out and were comfortable because they saw the turkeys in the field. i got a ton of pics and some really great footage too!! i can't wait for monday!! i'm off right now to practice some more w/my b/h.

thanks again.

Phirstaide