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When Is the Rut in Eastern Shore, Maryland?

Maryland rut phase dates for the 2026 season. Eastern Shore is one of 2 distinct rut zones in Maryland — timing here runs on its own schedule.

Short answer: peak rut in Eastern Shore typically runs Nov 10 to Nov 20.
Compared with the rest of Maryland: peak rut in Eastern Shore runs about 3 days earlier than Western MD.

Eastern Shore Rut Phases

Region Pre-Rut Seeking Peak Rut Post-Rut
Eastern Shore Oct 20 – Nov 1 Nov 1 – Nov 10 Nov 10 – Nov 20 Nov 20 – Nov 30

Every Rut Zone in Maryland

Hunting a different part of the state? Peak dates shift.

Region Pre-Rut Seeking Peak Rut Post-Rut
Eastern Shore ← you are here Oct 20 – Nov 1 Nov 1 – Nov 10 Nov 10 – Nov 20 Nov 20 – Nov 30
Western MD Oct 25 – Nov 5 Nov 5 – Nov 13 Nov 13 – Nov 22 Nov 22 – Dec 1
How to use these dates. Rut timing is driven mainly by photoperiod, so these windows hold up well year to year. What moves is visible daylight activity — cold fronts, wind, and hunting pressure shift when deer move inside the window. Use the dates to pick your week, then the daily forecast to pick your morning. Always verify seasons with your state agency.
Check today's hunting conditions → All Maryland rut dates

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