The 2025–2026 whitetail deer season is about to take a brief pause here in New York State. As the snow continues to fly and Christmas approaches, hunters will see a gap between the regular deer season and what is known as the Holiday Hunt in New York.

Heavy Snow Makes Late-Season Hunting a Challenge in Western New York

For those of us with property in the southern portion of Western New York, the snow has piled up quickly. In some areas, there is already an incredible amount of snow on the ground, making it difficult just to walk through the woods, let alone reach a tree stand or blind.

Navigating deep drifts has been tough for hunters, and ironically, it has likely been just as challenging for the deer. In some spots, snowbanks already resemble what we typically see in the heart of winter.

Determined Hunters Still Pushing to Fill a Tag

Despite the harsh conditions, some hunters are still making their way into the woods, hoping to fill a tag before the late season officially ends. Late-season deer hunting is never easy, especially as activity in the deer woods tends to slow down this time of year.

Still, perseverance pays off for some, and every sit in the stand brings a chance, no matter how cold or snowy it gets.

What Is New York State’s Holiday Hunt?

New York State introduced the Holiday Hunt a few years ago, giving hunters another opportunity just after Christmas and into the New Year. This special season allows hunters one more chance to harvest a deer or fill an unused tag.

Personally, this is one of my favorite times of the year to hunt. With kids off from school for Christmas break, it’s a great opportunity to get them into the woods. Even though we rarely see deer during the Holiday Hunt, the experience itself…being outdoors together and enjoying the winter landscape is what truly matters.

3 Important Reminders For Deer Hunters

Gallery Credit: Clay Moden

Snow Takes a Toll on Pop-Up Blinds

Unfortunately, heavy snow hasn’t been kind to some hunting gear. For those of us who left pop-up blinds in the woods, the weight of the snow has likely done some damage.

I’ll admit I got a little lazy toward the end of the regular season, and I wouldn’t be surprised if my pop-up blind was completely flattened by the nearly three feet of snow that fell in parts of Cattaraugus County. Next year, I’m planning to upgrade to maybe a wooden structure or one of those fancy enclosed blinds you see in hunting videos all the time.

Snowmobiling Still on Hold Until After the Holiday Hunt

This pause between the regular deer season and the Holiday Hunt also serves as a reminder that snowmobiling is not officially open yet in New York State. Snowmobile season does not begin until after the Holiday Hunt closes in January.

While it’s frustrating, especially since some regions are already opening trails—the rules are clear. Areas like Tug Hill have already seen plenty of sleds on the trails, and vendors and restaurants there report a strong early season.

Related: Massive Eagle Takes Over A Yard in Western New York

Conservation, Family, and the Future of Hunting in New York

As the Holiday Hunt approaches, it’s a great time to enjoy the season with family and reflect on conservation efforts here in New York State. The Department of Environmental Conservation continues to work on potential updates for the 2026 and 2027 hunting seasons, and there may be exciting news ahead, especially for those who love to trap.

I’ll continue advocating for getting kids into the woods and involved in the outdoors. Maybe one day the minimum age to hunt will drop another year or two. Until then, I’ll keep introducing my kids to hunting, conservation, and the important role sportsmen and women play in protecting New York’s natural resources.

Enjoy the Holiday Hunt, stay safe, and have a wonderful holiday season with your family.