The early bowhunting season for bears will open in all of the Southern Zone on Oct. 1, followed by the regular firearms season beginning Nov. 18.
As the population has grown, season lengths and bag limits have been liberalized and hunters have successfully stabilized the population. The September season is an important opportunity for hunters, as regular Canada goose seasons have been restricted to 30 days and bag limits reduced to one bird in most areas to protect the more vulnerable migratory geese. Resident geese look the same as migratory geese, making it difficult for the public to distinguish between the two populations. For more information on the differences between migratory and resident geese and how these birds are managed, read the article “Canada Geese in New York - Residents or Visitors?” www.dec.ny.gov/docs/administration_pdf/canadageeseny0819.pdf
Migratory Bird Hunters: Protect the Game, Don’t Skip HIP!
All migratory game bird hunters must register annually for HIP (Harvest Information Program) through DEC’s licensing system. The HIP registration is legally required and helps state and federal biologists estimate hunter participation and harvest of migratory game birds. HIP registration identifies active hunters who receive follow-up surveys from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife service. Providing a valid email address during HIP registration will ensure that you can participate in hunter opinion and harvest surveys. For more information on how biologists estimate harvest and to see harvest data for New York and the rest of North America, visit: Migratory Game Bird Harvest Survey www.fws.gov/harvestsurvey
There are two options to register with HIP: online at the DEC hunting license website, or via the automated phone system, available by calling 1-866-933-2257. At the end of either process, you will be given your HIP registration number. Migratory game bird hunters must carry this number while hunting.
Safety
During all hunting seasons, hunters should remember to follow the primary rules of gun safety:
•assume every firearm is loaded;
•keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction;
•keep the safety on and finger off the trigger until ready to shoot; and
•always be sure of your target and what is beyond it.
For more information on hunter safety, visit DEC’s website; watch videos about hunter safety and tree stand safety for more tips on how to prevent accidents.
Hunters should also be prepared to cool and process harvested game quickly to preserve meat quality. Hunters should also remember that several changes enacted in 2021 continue this year. Hunters and anyone accompanying them must wear a solid or patterned fluorescent orange or fluorescent pink hat, vest, or jacket when hunting deer or bear with a firearm. Hunting hours for deer and bear now include the full period of ambient light from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset. Finally, 12- and 13-year-old hunters can hunt deer (not bear) with a firearm or crossbow when accompanied by an experienced licensed adult.
