Hunting And Outdoor Sports
DEC Announces Opening of Regular Firearms Season for Deer and Bear Hunting on Nov. 15
DEC Announces Opening of Regular Firearms Season for Deer and Bear Hunting on Nov. 15
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✍️By ZRIntel Editorial Team📍New York, USA
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is set to kick off the much-anticipated regular firearms season for deer and bear hunting on November 15, lasting through December 7. With this announcement, DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton urges hunters across the state to prioritize safety and disease prevention as they venture into the field. Commissioner Lefton emphasized that this season attracts hundreds of thousands of hunters who enjoy the outdoor experience and the opportunity to harvest both deer and bear, particularly in New York's Southern Zone. As part of their stewardship responsibilities, the DEC encourages hunters to focus on safe hunting practices while contributing to the management of the deer population. A significant aspect of this year's hunting season will be the DEC's continued efforts to monitor for Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD)a fatal condition affecting deer. Following an isolated detection of CWD in a captive deer facility in southern Herkimer County in October 2024, the DEC has tested numerous wild deer samples, reporting no CWD in these cases. Still, the organization calls for further sampling to promptly identify any possible infections in wild deer populations. This step is crucial since the introduction of CWD could severely endanger deer populations and future hunting opportunities. To avoid introducing CWD into wild deer populations, the DEC urges hunters to follow several key precautions. Hunters harvesting deer or related species from out of state must debone the meat before crossing back into New York. Additionally, it is critical to submit samples for CWD testing if harvested from CWD-affected areas and to avoid using deer urine-based lures, which may contain the disease. Proper disposal of carcass waste is similarly emphasized to mitigate disease spread. Safety while hunting is also paramount. Most hunting injuries occur when hunters are climbing into or out of tree stands, hence the DECs advice to always strap in before climbing. It is essential to use tree stands according to the manufacturer's guidelines, inspect them regularly, and avoid climbing with a loaded firearm. Furthermore, during the hunting season, all hunters must wear fluorescent orange or fluorescent pink clothing to enhance visibility in the woods. As part of DECs ongoing campaign to foster responsible hunting practices, they promote the "Let Young Bucks Go and Watch Them Grow" initiative, encouraging hunters to pass on the opportunity to harvest young bucks in favor of taking does. This approach aims to maintain a balanced deer population, thereby ensuring sustainable hunting and healthier antler development. This season also welcomes youth hunters, specifically those aged 12 and 13, who can hunt deer with a firearm under the supervision of an experienced, licensed adult mentor. Successfully implemented since 2021, this pilot program has reported no hunting-related shooting incidents among this age group, underscoring the importance of supervised experiences and education in promoting safe hunting practices. For successful hunters, reporting harvested deer and bears has been streamlined. As of 2025, hunters using paper tags must now report their harvest within 48 hours, reduced from 7 days to better manage wildlife populations. The use of the HuntFishNY mobile app simplifies this process, enabling immediate reporting even in low-service areasa significant technological advancement in wildlife management. This year, DEC once again encourages hunters to take part in the fight against hunger by donating harvested venison to food banks. Partnering with Feeding New York State, hunters can contribute thousands of pounds of meat to help those in need, all while supporting deer management efforts. As the regular firearms season approaches, the DEC stands ready with safety resources and educational materials to ensure that hunters can navigate the season effectively. Always check the 2025-2026 Hunting and Trapping Regulations Guide for comprehensive rules and guidelines to follow. In conclusion, the approaching firearms season represents not just an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, but a chance to engage in conservation practices to protect New York State's wildlife. As we prepare for what could be a rewarding hunting experience, let us honor our responsibilities as stewards of the land, the game, and each other's safety.