As the last couple of days of September wind down here in New York State, an important deadline is approaching for some deer hunters. October 1 will be here soon, and those applying for a Deer Management Permit (DMP) in certain areas of the state need to get their applications in before the deadline!

The forecast is calling for above-normal temperatures in parts of New York State this week. When October 1 rolls around, temperatures could climb into the 70s, with overnight lows remaining relatively mild.

It is the beginning of a great month of change here in New York State. By the end of October, we could even be dealing with snowfall.

New York Deer Hunting Season Is Almost Here

Have you noticed the leaves starting to change? Have you seen more deer activity around your neighborhood?

It is that time of year when cooler temperatures begin to arrive, and whitetail deer become increasingly active. For those of us who enjoy hunting, it is one of the most exciting times of the year, especially as archery season gets underway.

October 1 Deadline for New York Deer Management Permits

New York State has an October 1 deadline for hunters applying for Deer Management Permits (DMPs) in certain Wildlife Management Units where the permits are limited.

Hunters who want to apply for a DMP in these areas need to submit their applications before the deadline.

“The DMP application window opens in August each year. Applications for Wildlife Management Units (WMUs) with limited DMPs must be submitted by October 1 annually. Applications for WMUs with unlimited/bonus DMPs can be submitted any time throughout the hunting season.” 

Occasionally, the state evaluates permit availability and may authorize additional permits to be issued later in the hunting season. This year, some areas will have unlimited DMPs available. Applications for those permits can be submitted throughout the hunting season.

Unlimited Doe Permits Spark Discussion Across New York

The availability of unlimited doe permits has generated quite a bit of discussion this summer.

New York State is making changes in an effort to manage whitetail deer populations in various parts of the state. If you look at the map provided by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, you can see which areas are affected by these changes.

In areas with higher hunting pressure, the number of available Deer Management Permits may be limited. Hunters should check the DEC’s information to determine whether their Wildlife Management Unit has limited or unlimited permits and whether any deadlines apply.

New York’s October Hunting Season Is Almost Here

It is going to be an exciting hunting season, and I can’t wait to get out in the woods with my kids this fall.

We have been working hard to get camp ready, and there seems to be quite a bit of deer activity in the area where we hunt. If you are planning to apply for a Deer Management Permit, make sure you submit your application before the October 1 deadline if it applies to your area.

Opening day of New York’s early archery season is also October 1! Best of luck to everyone heading into the woods this fall. Have a safe and successful hunting season!