Hunting seasons have opened for several different species of small and big game in New York State. The Adirondacks provide many opportunities to hunt and trap all kinds of different animals: Deer, bear, beavers, rabbits, coyote, upland game birds, waterfowl, and more.
Hunting and trapping are important for managing herd populations around the state. The sale of licenses, equipment, accessories and guide services also brings tens of millions of dollars to state and local economies each year, according to the NYS DEC.
Bowhunting season opened on Sunday for the northern zone, and opens tomorrow (October 1) for the rest of the state. Early muzzleloader season will follow, opening on October 17. Finally, regular firearms season opens on October 24. (Southern zone rifle season opens on November 21).
The application deadline for Deer Management Permits is TOMORROW! If you haven’t gotten your license yet, do it today!
Bear hunting season opened on September 19, and will continue through with deer hunting seasons into early December.
Squirrel season opened on September 1, and cottontail rabbit opens on October 1. Coyote hunting opens across the entire state on October 1. Other furbearer (raccoon, fox, others) seasons open on October 25.
Pheasant, ruffed grouse, and woodcock seasons open on October 1.
Remember, the fall turkey hunting season and bag limits have changed. There is a two-week fall turkey season this year from October 1 – October 14 for northern zone, and October 17 – October 30 for southern zone. There is a season bag limit of one bird of either sex for the fall season this year.
Duck hunting opens in the Northeastern Zone on October 3, and Canada goose season will reopen on October 24.
Please remember to report all deer, bears and turkeys taken during this fall season. This helps DEC determine herd populations, forecasts, and new regulations limiting or expanding bag limits and open seasons. You can do this online or by calling 1-866-426-3778 after harvest.
Good luck out there!
