Local hunters gear up for deer season opening this Wednesday

New York State Southern Zone Launches Early Big-Game Archery Season

Beginning October 4, 2023, New York State’s Southern Zone early big-game archery season for whitetail deer and black bear will open, extending until November 14. This season precedes the traditional firearms hunting period, offering enthusiasts an excellent opportunity to hunt as the fall season unfolds.

Hunting Schedule and Details

The early archery season allows hunters to take to the woods from 30 minutes before sunrise until 30 minutes after sunset. Following the early archery season, the standard firearm season will commence on November 15 and last until December 7. Additionally, a late archery and muzzleloader season will run from December 8-16, culminating in the special late holiday season only for deer from December 26 to January 1 in select Wildlife Management Units (WMUs).

What to Expect During Hunting Seasons

Hunters are reminded that they can utilize various archery equipment, including crossbows, throughout all big-game seasons. Important events to take note of include:

• Regular Firearms Season: November 15 – December 7
• Late Archery/Muzzleloader Season: December 8 – 16
• Special Late Holiday Season for Deer: December 26 – January 1

Full Moons and Hunting Insights

This year’s Harvest Moon will be visible on October 6 and 7, marking the first supermoon of the season. Supermoons appear exceptionally large and bright, making hunting conditions ideal for early risers. The moonrise for the Harvest Moon is at 6:26 p.m., and it will shine brightly throughout the night, with a moonset on October 7 at 7:53 a.m. Additionally, the technical Hunter’s Moon takes place on November 5, coinciding with significant rutting activity for deer.

Special Youth Firearms Season

For young big-game hunters, the New York State youth firearms deer season will occur during Columbus Day weekend, from October 11-13, for ages 14 and 15 accompanied by a mentor. Regulations for this season include:

• Mandatory supervision by an experienced adult (21 years or older with a minimum of three years hunting experience)
• Requirement for visible hunter orange or pink outerwear (minimum 50% or 250 square inches)
• Ground-level hunting only, prohibiting tree stands
• Limits: Youth ages 14-15 can harvest one deer and one bear, while ages 12-13 are limited to one deer.

Approved hunting implements include rifles, shotguns, muzzleloaders, and crossbows, where allowed.

Important Changes for Hunters

Recent modifications to hunting regulations include a new approach to tags and licenses, allowing hunters to receive paper tags via email, which they can print at home. Additionally, backtags are no longer necessary under the updated legislation for the 2025-26 season. Hunters are encouraged to participate in programs that support local communities by donating portions of their harvested deer or contributing financially to the Venison Donation Program through designated outlets.

Upcoming Hunting Calendar in New York

Plan your hunting activities with the following key dates:

As the seasons change and excitement builds for hunting enthusiasts, it is vital to remain vigilant, respect property boundaries, and ensure safety in the woods. Embrace the thrill of the outdoors and good luck to all as the big game season approaches!