Recently, a man was arrested for shooting multiple deer in Tonawanda. As the hunting season continues across New York State, licensed hunters have one final weekend to legally hunt with a firearm. But a common question always comes up this time of year: How many deer can a hunter actually take throughout the season in New York State?
When the New York State Deer Season Begins and Ends
The New York State deer hunting season typically begins in late September or early October, depending on the hunting zone. The season runs through the end of December. For those who hunt with a bow, crossbow, or muzzleloader, an extended late season begins the day after the regular firearm season ends.
With fresh snowfall on the ground, this weekend could be a great opportunity for hunters looking to make one last trip into the woods and fill the freezer.
Illegal Deer Shooting Isn’t Representative of NY Hunters
The story of the man arrested for illegally shooting three deer has been circulating all week on local news. For non-hunters, it’s important to understand that this situation does not reflect ethical, licensed hunters.
The vast majority of hunters in New York State follow the rules, respect conservation, and contribute to managing wildlife populations responsibly. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) works hard to maintain healthy deer populations and to regulate hunting in a sustainable way. Ethical hunters value that work and abide by the laws designed to protect wildlife.
Whenever these illegal incidents make the headlines, they often unfairly shape public perception—something that frustrates the thousands of hunters who do things the right way.
Last Weekend for Firearm Hunters
This weekend marks the final opportunity for firearm hunters to fill their tags. Whether someone has a buck tag, a doe tag, or in some cases, two doe tags, it could be a productive and exciting weekend in the woods.
It is possible that a hunter, who has the proper tags and license, can shoot a deer in the archery season, the regular season which may include two doe tags and possibly one with the muzzeloader. That would be at least 5 deer for the year!
From treestands to ground blinds to traditional deer drives, the final weekend of firearm season is often one of the most successful for hunters across Western New York.
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Venison Donation Helps Local Communities
If you harvest more than one deer and want to donate the venison, there are several programs in New York State that make it easy. Donating venison is a powerful way to support local food banks and charities, helping fill their freezers for the long, cold winter ahead.
What’s Next: Late Archery, Crossbow, and Muzzleloader Season
Good luck this weekend and stay safe if you’ll be taking part in deer drives. The late archery, crossbow, and muzzleloader seasons begin on Monday, December 8, in many parts of New York State.
3 Important Reminders For Deer Hunters
Gallery Credit: Clay Moden