Here in Maine, there are plenty of hunting opportunities for those who want to take advantage of them.

There are seasons on moose and bear and turkeys, ducks, birds and geese.

But only one critter is being targeted when Mainers begin referring simply to “hunting season.”

Say that to even a novice Maine hunter, and they’ll know you’re talking about deer season. More specifically, in most cases you’ll be talking about the firearms deer season, which begins today and runs through Nov. 27.

As hunters head into the woods today, they’ll find only fellow Mainers afield.

The first Saturday of deer season has been designated a resident-only hunting day, giving Mainers first crack at the wily deer.

Legal hunting hours begin at 6:41 a.m. today and hunters can’t shoot any later than 5:56 p.m. Blaze orange is required for firearms hunters, and isn’t a bad idea for anyone who might be spending time in the woods during hunting season.

Hunters meals on tap

The state’s firearms hunters will head into the woods today on the first day of deer season. Even if you’re not a hunter, that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy one of the fringe benefits: Hunter’s breakfasts abound over the coming weeks, and they’re open to all.

Here’s a partial list of upcoming breakfasts.

. At Dedham, a breakfast will be held at the Dedham School from 4 a.m.-9 a.m. today. The price is $3 for children, $5 for adults and $12 for families. Call 843-6498 for tickets, or buy them at the door.

. At Bangor, The 6th Young Hunter’s Breakfast is scheduled for today at the Bangor Elks Club on Odlin Road. The breakfast will run 4-8 a.m., and the feed is free for everyone. Donations to Maine’s Youth Fish & Game Association will be accepted. A full breakfast menu is on tap, and a .22 rifle will be given away to a hunter age 16 or younger.

. At Milo, the 37th Penquis Valley High School hunter’s breakfast will be held today. The breakfast runs 4:30-8:30 a.m. Tickets are $3.50 in advance, $4 at the door.

. At Presque Isle, The Presque Isle Fish & Game Club will hold its 45th hunter’s breakfast at its clubhouse 4-8 a.m. today. The fee is $4, and a Remington Model 710 .30-06, a Mosseberg Model 500 12-gauge shotgun and 100 gallons of fuel oil will be raffled. In cooperation with the Presque Isle Police Department, a gun lock will be given to everyone who attends.

. At Glenburn, a hunter’s breakfast will be held today at the West Glenburn Community Club on the corner of Phillips Road and Ohio Street. The breakfast will run from 4-9 a.m., and the price is $5.

. At Exeter, a hunter’s breakfast will be held at the Exeter School on Nov. 6 from 4:30 to 9 a.m. Children 12 and younger will pay $2.50 while adults eat for $4.50.

. At Passadumkeag, a public hunter’s supper is scheduled for Nov. 20 at the community building. The supper will run from 4:30 to 6 p.m. The cost is $6 for adults and $3 for children. For more information contact Lillian Marquis at 732-3232 or Alice Dolley at 732-4155.