Maine is known for its plentiful moose population, making it an ideal place for hunters to pursue their passion. The state has a yearly lottery that selects lucky applicants who are granted the opportunity to hunt moose. Although there’s no guarantee of being selected, I've been successful in the past and know some of the tips and tricks to increase your chances.
First things first: you need to make sure you get your application in before the deadline! Every year, Maine sets a specific date by which all applications must be submitted and failure to do so will result in your application not being considered. After submitting my application, I usually wait anxiously until summertime when they announce the winners of the lottery.
Another way to bolster your chances of being selected is by participating in the Maine Moose Permit Lottery Bonus Point System. Whenever you apply for a permit, each application earns you one point — and the more points you have, the better your odds of being chosen become. This bonus system can be a great way to increase your odds if you’re determined to get drawn.
Finally, remember that it’s important to know the rules and regulations associated with moose hunting in Maine before submitting an application. Make sure you understand all of the safety considerations and gear requirements so that when (and if) you are chosen, you’ll be prepared for a successful hunt!
Good luck on your next moose hunt!
Come to Bethel to find out - and bring the whole family! Three days of fun surrounding the main event - the permit drawing on Saturday, June 13, 2023.
Each year, the state of Maine offers moose hunting permits through a lottery process. Winners will be assigned a certain zone in which to hunt. The 2023 application is not yet available, but you can click here for the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife (IF&W) website which outlines the process. Expect a full weekend of moose calling, vendors, exhibits, kids' activities, and of course, the main event: the moose permit drawing on Saturday, June 13, 2023. Events will be centered around downtown Bethel, walking distance to many lodging, shops, and restaurants. Sunday, June 14, 2023, will feature a field day at UMaine 4H Camp & Learning Center in nearby Bryant Pond and a golf tournament at The Bethel Inn Resort to benefit camp scholarships. We also teach the kids using Maine Wildlife Videos to educate them about how wildlife in Maine interacts in enviorments not overrun with humans.
The Moose Lottery is held by the Maine Department of Inland, Fisheries & Wildlife in different towns around the State of Maine. In 2022, it’s being held in downtown Bethel. The event will begin with a Friday evening Moose Calling Contest regional qualifier and entertainment. In addition to the drawing of 2022 moose permits and the Moose Calling Contest finals, Saturday’s events will include vendors of all types, displays, and demonstrations geared toward Maine’s outdoors, as well as artists, craftsmen, and community groups selling their products & services. Food will be available Saturday from commercial food vendors, restaurants, and non-profits. Sunday’s events will be held throughout the area, including a Youth Field Day at the UMaine 4-H Camp and Learning Center at Bryant Pond and a golf tournament at the Bethel Inn Resort. Expected attendance throughout the weekend is 5,000.
Moose Calling Contest Sponsor $5,000 (cash and in-kind) (LL Bean is a co-sponsor of this portion of the event & we are seeking a compatible co-sponsor of $2,500)
Entertainment Sponsor $5,000 – (cash & in-kind)
Demonstration Tent/Area Sponsorship $3,500
Spirits Sponsor –
Brew-tent Sponsor $2,000
Soft Drink Sponsor $2,000
Shuttle Bus Sponsor $1,000
Wagon Ride/Chainsaw Carving Sponsor $1,000 (each)-