When is Deer Hunting Season in New York State?
Deer hunting is a popular outdoor recreational activity in New York state, with thousands of licensed hunters participating every year. The state has a comprehensive deer management program in place to regulate the deer population and ensure a sustainable hunt. In this article, we will provide an overview of when deer hunting season is in New York state, as well as other important details for hunters.
When is Deer Hunting Season in New York State?
The deer hunting season in New York state varies depending on the type of deer, season type, and region. The regular season typically starts in mid-October and runs through mid-December, with some seasons starting as early as late September.
Here is a breakdown of the different deer hunting seasons in New York state:
- Archery season: October 1st to November 19th
- Muzzleloader season: November 20th to November 27th
- Regular season: November 28th to December 13th
- Youth season: Saturday and Sunday only, one weekend in November (ages 12-17)
Season Dates by Region
New York state is divided into four deer management regions, each with its own specific season dates and regulations. Here is a breakdown of the season dates by region:
| Region | Archery | Muzzleloader | Regular | Youth |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DEC Region 1 (Long Island) | October 1-31 | Not applicable | Not applicable | Not applicable |
| DEC Region 2 (Westchester County) | October 1-31 | Not applicable | Not applicable | Not applicable |
| DEC Region 3 (Capital District) | October 1-31 | November 20-27 | November 28 – December 13 | One weekend in November |
| DEC Region 4 (Central & Southern) | October 1-31 | November 20-27 | November 28 – December 13 | One weekend in November |
Permits and Licenses
To participate in deer hunting in New York state, you will need to purchase a hunting license and permits. Here are the basic requirements:
- Resident Hunting License: Required for all residents, costing $27.50 (ages 12-70) or $13.50 (ages 3-11 or 71+)
- Non-Resident Hunting License: Required for non-residents, costing $100
- Deer Harvest Tag: Required for hunters who want to harvest deer, costing $10 (resident) or $50 (non-resident)
Hunting Regulations
In addition to the permits and licenses, there are several other regulations that hunters must follow:
- Bag Limits: 2 deer per year, including 1 antlerless deer
- Deer Sex: Only one antlerless deer may be harvested per year, unless you have a deer management permit
- Deer Size: A minimum of 100 square inches of main beam circumference is required for antlered deer
- Hunting Hours: Legal hunting hours are one-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset
- Shooting Restrictions: Hunters are prohibited from shooting within 500 yards of a school, hospital, or other protected areas
Tips for Deer Hunting in New York State
Here are some tips for deer hunting in New York state:
- Study the Regulations: Familiarize yourself with the regulations and make sure you are in compliance
- Know Your Hunting Location: Choose a location that is open to hunting and has a good deer population
- Use Proper Gear: Make sure you have the right gear, including a rifle, bow, or muzzleloader
- Practice Safety: Always wear blaze orange and keep a safe distance from roads and other hunters
- Respect the Deer: Follow the regulations and treat the deer with respect to ensure a sustainable hunt
Conclusion
Deer hunting is a popular outdoor recreational activity in New York state, with many opportunities for hunters to enjoy the thrill of the hunt. By understanding the regulations and following the tips, hunters can ensure a successful and enjoyable hunt.
