There Are Many Surprising Spots to Hunt Within Bangor, Maine

I'm always very quick to point out a couple things...

First off, I have no real issue with firearms. Whenever I have the opportunity, I will gladly waste a bunch of ammo target shooting with friends. Second, I have absolutely zero issues with hunting. However, I have zero desire to shoot an animal. And I'm ok with that. I'm also totally ok with you doing it.

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Heck, bring it on over! I'll gladly cook it, and share it with you. So when I bring up the idea of hunting within Bangor city limits, it's not from a place of disapproval. If anything, I think there are some areas of Bangor that are open to hunting, that a lot of people would assume are not. And honestly, it does get a little complicated.

Bangor is divided into two zones...

When it comes to the use of firearms, Bangor can be boiled down into one of two zones: One that you can use them, and one that you can't. Zone 1 is what I'd describe as the "city" part of Bangor, that would encompass downtown, etc. And then there's Zone 2, which is more on the outskirts of the city.

You can definitely hunt in Zone 2, but it requires some thorough research. In this zone, you'll either be hunting on private property, and you'll need permission to be there. Or, you'll be hunting on Bangor Land Trust areas. Contacting the BLT is your best bet out of the gate, because they'll also help you get landowner permission.

Here's where it gets tricky...

In a nutshell, there are definitely situations where hikers, using Bangor Land Trust trails, may be in the woods with hunters. So if you're a hiker that uses any of the Central Penjajawoc Trails, you're gonna wanna stock up on your blaze orange for you and your dogs. Leashes are also mandatory on these trails. As much for your dog's safety. The BLT definitely recommends Sunday as the best day for hikers.

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I saw a post on Facebook going around saying they even saw someone hunting in the Prentiss Woods right behind Bangor High School. Apparently, that person was there legally, hunting with a bow/crossbow. Interestingly though, Maine state law does recognize a crossbow as a firearm, but only if it's cocked and loaded... But I'm sure that's the last place anyone expected to find someone hunting.

The real point here, is that hunters have to hunt, and hikers have to hike. So it's important for people to play together nicely. But now you know, there are a LOT of places that you'd never assume could have hunters in them, but are totally fair game. So it's just important we all try to be safe.