New York Hunting Seasons 2023 [Latest NYS Hunting Rules]

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Welcome to the highly awaited New York Hunting Seasons 2023-2024, when hunters around the state await amazing outdoor activities. New York has ample wildlife in its extensive woods and gorgeous rivers. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a newbie eager to enjoy the thrill of the chase, the 2023 hunting season offers many chances to connect with nature, test your abilities, and make memories.

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation hunting seasons are thrilling. With early bear, Canada goose, and deer hunting seasons already underway, it’s the perfect time to delve into the essential hunting guide for the New York 2023 season. This guide includes start and end dates, bag limits, regulations, and vital hunting information. Let’s check into it!

New York Hunting Season
New York Hunting Season

What are the dates for hunting season in NY 2023-2024?

Content Highlights

Deer, elk, turkey, bear, quail, ruffed grouse, pheasant, ducks, and bobcat hunting seasons are all subject to regulation in New York by the state’s Department of Environmental Conservation. The hunting rules and restrictions of New York State may also be applicable on City-owned hunting grounds. The hunting seasons vary depending on the species, weapon, and location. The best turkey hunters use a variety of sounds to get a bird within shooting distance during the spring and autumn turkey hunting seasons.

NY Big Game Hunting Important dates

Hunting Seasons SummaryDates
Northern Zone Bowhunting27-Sep
Southern Zone Bowhunting1-Oct
Northern Zone MuzzleloaderOct 14 - Oct 20
Northern Zone FirearmsBegins on Oct 21
Crossbow UseLast 10 days of Northern Zone bow season (Oct 11 - Oct 20)
Last 14 days of Southern Zone bow season (Nov 4 - Nov 17)
Youth Big Game HuntColumbus/Indigenous Peoples' Day weekend, Oct 7-9

NY Hunting Season by Game Species

NY Deer Season 2023-2024

The New York deer hunting seasons for 2023–2024 comprise an antlerless-only season in mid-September, a standard season for guns, crossbows, and vertical bows, a late bow season, a muzzleloading season, and a Suffolk County special weapons season.

Early Antlerless Deer Season
Early Antlerless Deer AreaDatesEligible Methods
Northern ZoneNA
Southern ZoneSept. 9 - 17Firearms, bows, crossbow
WMUs 3M, 3R, 8A,
8F, 8G, 8J, 8N,
9A, 9F
WMUs 4J, 8CBowhunting only
Westchester CountySept. 9 - 17Bowhunting only
(WMU 3S)
Suffolk CountySept. 9 - 17Bowhunting only
(WMU 1C)
Regular Deer Season
Regular Deer Season AreaDatesEligible WMUs
Northern ZoneOct. 21 - Dec. 3
Southern ZoneNov. 18 - Dec. 10
Westchester CountyOct. 1 - Dec. 31WMU 3S (bowhunting only)
Suffolk CountyOct. 1, 2023 - Jan. 31, 2024WMU 1C (bowhunting only)
Bow hunting Deer Season
Bowhunting Deer AreaDatesEligible WMUs
Northern ZoneSept. 27 - Oct. 20
Dec. 4 - Dec. 10WMUs 5A, 5G, 5J, 6A, 6C, 6G, 6H only
Southern ZoneOct. 1 - Nov. 17
Dec. 11 - Dec. 19
Dec. 26 - Jan. 1
Westchester CountyOct. 1 - Dec. 31WMU 3S (bowhunting only)
Suffolk CountyOct. 1, 2023 - Jan. 31, 2024WMU 1C (bowhunting only)
Crossbow Deer Season
Crossbow Deer AreaDatesEligible WMUs
Northern ZoneOct. 11 - Oct. 20
Southern ZoneNov. 4 - Nov. 17Not in WMUs 4J or 8C
Westchester CountyNAWMU 3S
Suffolk CountyNAWMU 1C
Muzzleloading Deer Season
Muzzleloading Deer AreaDatesEligible WMUs
Northern ZoneOct. 14 - Oct. 20
Dec. 4 - Dec. 10WMUs 5A, 5G, 5J, 6A, 6C, 6G, 6H only
Southern ZoneDec. 12 - Dec. 20Except bowhunting only WMUs 4J and 8C
Dec. 26 - Jan. 1Except bowhunting only WMUs 4J and 8C
Westchester CountyWMU 3S
Suffolk CountyWMU 1C

Bear Season

AreaDatesShaded Portions
Early Bear Season
Northern ZoneYellow and Brown
Southern ZoneOrange
GreenSept. 9 - Sept. 24
Westchester CountyLight Blue
Bear Bowhunting Season
AreaDatesShaded Portions
Northern ZoneYellow and BrownSept. 16 - Oct. 20
Southern ZoneOrangeOct. 1 - Nov. 17
Dec. 11 - Dec. 19
GreenOct. 1 - Nov. 17
Dec. 11 - Dec. 19
Westchester CountySame as Regular Season
Bear Crossbow Season
AreaDatesShaded Portions
Northern ZoneYellow and BrownOct. 12 - Oct. 21
Southern ZoneOrangeNov. 4 - Nov. 17
(Not in WMUs 3S, 4J or 8C)
GreenNov. 4 - Nov. 17
Westchester CountyLight Blue
Regular Bear Season
AreaDatesShaded Portions
Northern ZoneYellow and BrownSept. 17 - Dec. 4
Southern ZoneOrangeNov. 18 - Dec. 10
GreenNov. 18 - Dec. 10
Westchester CountyOct. 1 - Dec. 31
(Bowhunting only, Light Blue)
Bear Muzzleloading Season
AreaDatesShaded Portions
Northern ZoneYellow and BrownOct. 15 - Oct. 21
Southern ZoneOrangeDec. 11 - Dec. 19
GreenDec. 11 - Dec. 19
Westchester CountyLight Blue
NY Bear Season Map
NY Bear Season Map

Turkey Season

Spring Turkey Hunt
Hunt TypeStart DateEnd Date
Spring Turkey Hunt1-May31-May
Youth Turkey Hunt
Hunt TypeStart DateEnd Date
Youth Turkey Hunt22-Apr23-Apr
Fall Turkey Hunt
Hunt TypeStart DateEnd Date
Fall Turkey Hunt1-Oct14-Oct
15-Oct28-Oct
19-Nov2-Dec
Area 1A & 2A
AreaStatus
1AClosed
2AClosed

Ruffed Grouse Season

NY Ruffed Grouse SeasonHunting Start DateHunting End DateNote
Ruffed Grouse (North Zone)20-Sep-2329-Feb-24A bag limit of 4 per day.
Ruffed Grouse (South Zone)1-Oct-2329-Feb-24A bag limit of 4 per day.

Pheasant Season

NY Pheasant SeasonHunting Start DateHunting End DateNote
Regular Season21-Oct-2331-Dec-23Bag limit of 2
Regular Season21-Oct-231-Feb-24Bag limit of 2
Regular Season1-Oct-231-Feb-24Bag limit of 2
Regular Season1-Nov-2331-Dec-23Bag limit of 4
Regular Season1-Nov-2331-Dec-23Bag limit of 4
Youth Hunt Season14-Oct-2315-Oct-23Bag limit of 2
Youth Hunt Season14-Oct-2315-Oct-23Bag limit of 2
Youth Hunt Season23-Sep-2324-Sep-23Bag limit of 2
Youth Hunt Season28-Oct-2329-Oct-23Bag limit of 4 and Possession Limit of 30
Youth Hunt Season28-Oct-2329-Oct-23Bag limit of 4 and Possession Limit of 30

Quail Season

New York Quail SeasonHunting Start DateHunting End DateNote
Bobwhite Quail (Early)1-Oct-2329-Feb-24A bag limit of 4 per day. Orange and Putnam Counties.
Bobwhite Quail (Late)1-Nov-2331-Dec-23A bag limit of 6 per day. Nassau and Suffolk Counties.

NY Migratory Bird Season

Woodcock Season
Woodcock AreaDatesBag Limit
Upstate NY (1,3)Oct. 1 - Nov. 143 per day
Long Island (2,3)Oct. 1 - Nov. 143 per day
Woodcock Regulations:
  • HIP Registration Not Required
  • Shooting Hours Sunrise to Sunset          
  • Non-Toxic Shot not required     
  • Fed Migratory Bird Stamp NOT Required
Crow Seasons
NY Crow AreaDatesBag Limit
Upstate NY (1,3)Sept. 1 - Mar. 31None
Long Island (2,3)Sept. 1 - Mar. 31None
Crow Regulations:
  • HIP Registration Not Required
  • Shooting Hours Sunrise to Sunset          
  • Non-Toxic Shot not required     
  • Fed Migratory Bird Stamp NOT Required
  • Hunting on Fri., Sat., Sun. & Mon. ONLY;
  • Rifles and amplified calls permitted
Snipe Season
NY Snipe AreaDatesBag Limit
Upstate NY (1,3)Sept. 1 - Nov. 98 per day
Long Island (2,3)ClosedN/A
Snipe Regulations
  • HIP Registration Required
  • Shooting Hours: 1/2-Hr Before Sunrise to Sunset
  • Non-Toxic Shot required           
  • Fed Migratory Bird Stamp NOT Required
Virginia & Sora Rails Season
NY Virginia & Sora Rails AreaDatesBag Limit
Upstate NY (1,3)Sept. 1 - Nov. 98 per day
Long Island (2,3)ClosedN/A
Virginia & Sora Rails Regulations
  • HIP Registration Required
  • Shooting Hours: 1/2-Hr Before Sunrise to Sunset
  • Non-Toxic Shot required           
  • Fed Migratory Bird Stamp NOT Required
Gallinules Season
NY Gallinules AreaDatesBag Limit
Upstate NY (1,3)Sept. 1 - Nov. 98 per day
Long Island (2,3)ClosedN/A
Gallinules Regulations
  • HIP Registration Required
  • Shooting Hours: 1/2-Hr Before Sunrise to Sunset
  • Non-Toxic Shot required           
  • Fed Migratory Bird Stamp NOT Required
Clapper & King Rails Season
NY Clapper & King Rails AreaDatesBag Limit
Upstate NY (1,3)ClosedN/A
Long Island (2,3)ClosedN/A

New York Waterfowl Hunting

Regular Waterfowl Season
NY Waterfowl HuntingSeason DatesDaily LimitPossession Limit
Ducks
SpeciesDucks618
WesternOct. 21 - Nov. 12618
NortheastOct. 7 - Oct. 29618
Lake ChamplainOct. 7 - Oct. 11618
SoutheastOct. 21 - Dec. 3618
Long IslandNov. 18 - Nov. 26618
Coots
SpeciesCoots1545
WesternOct. 21 - Nov. 121545
NortheastOct. 7 - Oct. 291545
Lake ChamplainOct. 7 - Oct. 111545
SoutheastOct. 21 - Dec. 31545
Long IslandNov. 18 - Nov. 261545
Mergansers
SpeciesMergansers618
WesternNov. 25 - Dec. 31618
NortheastNov. 4 - Dec. 10618
Lake ChamplainNov. 4 - Dec. 28618
SoutheastDec. 9 - Dec. 24618
Long IslandDec. 9 - Jan. 28618
Scaup (2 bird daily bag limit)
SpeciesScaup
WesternDec. 12 - Dec. 31
NortheastNov. 15 - Dec. 4
Lake ChamplainDec. 9 - Dec. 28
SoutheastNov. 30 - Dec. 3, Dec. 9-24
Long IslandJan. 9 - Jan. 28
Snow Geese
SpeciesSnow Geese25no limit
WesternOct. 1 - Apr. 1525no limit
NortheastOct. 1 - Apr. 1525no limit
Lake ChamplainOct. 1 - Dec. 3125no limit
SoutheastOct. 1 - Apr. 1525no limit
Long IslandNov. 25 - Mar. 1025no limit
Brant
SpeciesBrant13
WesternOct. 14 - Nov. 1213
NortheastOct. 14 - Nov. 1213
Lake ChamplainOct. 14 - Nov. 1213
SoutheastOct. 14 - Nov. 1213
Long IslandDec. 30 - Jan. 2813
Youth Days
SpeciesDucks
WesternSept 30 & Oct. 1
NortheastSept. 23 & 24
Lake ChamplainSept. 23 & 24
SoutheastSept. 23 & 24
Long IslandNov. 4 & Nov. 5
Veteran and Active Military Days
SpeciesDucks
WesternOct. 7 & Jan. 20
NortheastSept. 23 & 24
Lake ChamplainNo special season
SoutheastSept. 23 & 24
Long IslandNov. 11 & Nov. 12

Note:

  • Youth Days provide enhanced hunting chances for youth hunters 12–15 with a junior hunting license. Young hunters may hunt ducks, coots, mergansers, Canada geese, and brant in each zone. Youth Days have the same daily bag restrictions for these species as the regular season. However, the September Canada goose bag limitations do not apply. A licensed adult hunter with a HIP registration and duck stamp for safety and instruction must accompany young hunters. The mentor cannot carry a rifle, longbow, or crossbow when hunting. However, hunters who are not mentoring the young are not restricted.
  • New York allows six ducks daily, including mergansers and sea ducks like scoters, eiders, and long-tailed ducks. Certain species are restricted. Hunters cannot take harlequin ducks, and within the daily limit of 6, they can take no more than 4 mallards (2 of which can be hens), 3 wood ducks, 2 black ducks, 1 pintail, 1 scaup (except during the specified 20-day period mentioned in the season’s table where 2 may be taken), 2 redheads, 2 canvasback, or 4 sea ducks (with no more than 3 scoters, 3 eiders, or 3 long-tailed ducks). The 3 eiders can only have one hen. The daily limit for other New York duck species is 6.
Canada Geese Season
NY Canada Geese SeasonSeason DatesDaily Limit
NortheastSept 1 - Sept 2515
Oct 28 - Dec 113
West CentralSept 1 - Sept 2515
Oct 28 - Nov 263
Dec 26 - Jan 93
Lake ChamplainSept 1 - Sept 258
Oct 14 - Nov 273
Dec 1 - Jan 65
East CentralSept 1- Sept 2515
Oct 28 - Nov 173
Nov 25 - Dec 183
Hudson ValleySept 1 - Sept 2515
Oct 28 - Nov 113
Dec 9 - Jan 73
SouthSept 1 - Sept 2515
Oct 28 - Nov 175
Nov 25-Jan 215
Long Island Canada Geese Season
Long Island Canada Geese SeasonSeason DatesDaily Limit
WesternOct 7 - Oct 228
Nov 18 - Nov 268
Dec 6 - Feb 218
CentralSept 5 Sept 3015
Nov 18 - Nov 263
Dec 9 - Feb 73
EasternSept 5 - Sept 3015
Nov 18-Nov 262
Dec 9-Jan 282

Squirrel Season

NY Squirrel SeasonHunting Start DateHunting End DateLimits
Gray, Black & Fox Squirrel1-Sep-2329-Feb-246
Gray, Black & Fox Squirrel1-Nov-2329-Feb-246

Rabbit Season

New York Rabbit SeasonHunting Start DateHunting End DateNote
Rabbit (Cottontail)1-Oct-2317-Mar-246 bag limit
Rabbit (Cottontail)1-Oct-2329-Feb-246 bag limit
Rabbit (Cottontail)1-Nov-2329-Feb-246 bag limit
Varying Hare Rabbit Hunting1-Oct-2317-Mar-246 bag limit
Varying Hare Rabbit Hunting1-Jan-2431-Jan-242 bag limit
Varying Hare Rabbit Hunting11-Dec-2329-Feb-242 bag limit

NY Furbearer Hunting Season

Fox Season
NY Fox SeasonHunting Start DateHunting End DateLimit
Red & Gray1-Nov-2325-Feb-24No Bag Limit
Red & Gray25-Oct-2315-Feb-24No Bag Limit
Bobcat Season
New York Bobcat SeasonHunting Start DateHunting End DateNote
Bobcat-225-Oct18-NovThere is no limit. (Select units)
Bobcat-125-Oct15-FebThere is no limit. (Select units)
Coyote Season
New York Coyote SeasonHunting Start DateHunting End DateNote
Coyote1-Oct26-Mar(Statewide) There is no limit.
Raccoon Season
SpeciesHunting Start DateHunting End DateLimit
Raccoon1-Nov-2325-Feb-24No Bag Limit
Raccoon 25-Oct-2315-Feb-24No Bag Limit
Skunk Season
SpeciesHunting Start DateHunting End DateLimit
Skunk1-Nov-2325-Feb-24No Bag Limit
25-Oct-2315-Feb-24No Bag Limit
Opossum & Weasel Season
SpeciesHunting Start DateHunting End DateLimit
Opossum & Weasel1-Nov-2325-Feb-24No Bag Limit
25-Oct-2315-Feb-24No Bag Limit

NY Furbearer Trapping Season

NY Furbearer Trapping SeasonHunting Start DateHunting End DateNote
Raccoon, Red Fox, Gray Fox, Skunk, Coyote Opossum & Weasel25-Oct-2315-Feb-24
There is no bag limit
25-Oct-2315-Feb-24
There is no bag limit
1-Nov-2325-Feb-24There is no bag limit
Mink & Muskrat Trapping Season1-Nov-2315-Apr-24There is no bag limit
10-Nov-2315-Feb-24There is no bag limit
10-Nov-237-Apr-24There is no bag limit
`15-Dec-2325-Feb-24

Fisher & Marten
1-Nov-2330-Nov-23A bag limit of 6 Marten and no bag limit for Fisher
25-Oct-2330-Oct-23Fisher only and no bag limits
25-Oct-2310-Dec-23Fisher only and no bag limits
Bobcat25-Oct-2315-Feb-24There is no bag limit
25-Oct-2318-Nov-23There is no bag limit
Beaver1-Nov-237-Apr-24There is no bag limit
10-Nov-237-Apr-24There is no bag limit
River Otter10-Nov-237-Apr-24There is no bag limit
10-Nov-2328-Feb-24There is no bag limit

New York Hunting Seasons and Dates
New York Hunting Seasons and Dates Timeline

Lottery Entries Open for Duck Hunting Opening Weekend at Oak Orchard and Tonawanda Wildlife Management Areas 2023

EventDetails
Event TypeWaterfowl Hunting Permit Lottery for Duck Hunting Opening Weekend
Hunting AreasOak Orchard Wildlife Management Area (WMA) and Tonawanda WMA
Hunting DatesOctober 21 and 22, 2023 (first Saturday and Sunday of Western Zone duck season)
Application Deadline15-Sep-23
Permit DistributionRandom lottery
Permits Issued• Oak Orchard WMA: 50 permits
• Tonawanda WMA: 100 permits
Location of WMAsPrimarily in Genesee and Niagara counties, with small portions in Orleans and Erie counties
Permit PurposePromote hunter safety, reduce conflicts, and enhance hunting quality during high-use days
ContactDEC Iroquois Wildlife Field Office: (585) 948-5182
Alternate ApplicationIf unable to complete online survey, contact the office before Sept. 15 deadline
Form to Apply for the lotteryApply Here

Big Game Youth Hunt:

From October 8-10, New York hosts its annual Youth Big Game Hunt, welcoming young hunters aged 12-15 from around the state (except for Suffolk and Westchester counties and bowhunting-only areas). Depending on the county’s regulations, youth as young as 12 or 13 may use a rifle to shoot deer in the upstate New York area. Youth hunters of any age are permitted to kill one deer of either gender and one bear if they are 14 or 15. Three tags may be used on antlerless deer: regular season, DMP, and Deer Management Assistance Program.

Youth Big Game Hunting Rules

Youth Big Game Hunt RulesDetails
Eligible Hunters12 to 15-year-old hunters (statewide, with the exception of Suffolk and Westchester counties and regions where bowhunting is only permitted)
Hunt AccompanimentWhen hunting large game with a rifle, licensed 12- to 15-year-olds must be accompanied by an experienced, licensed adult.
Bag LimitsAll junior hunters who qualify may take one deer of either sex and one bear at the ages of 14 and 15.
TaggingA normal season tag, a tag from the Deer Management Assistance Program (DMAP), or a tag from the Deer Management Permit (DMP) may be used to tag antlerless deer that were shot during the youth hunt. Only the normal season tag may be used to tag antlerless deer.
Additional RulesOn pages 36 and 37 of the Hunting and Trapping Guide, as well as via the Junior Hunter Mentoring Program, are rules for young hunters and the adults who will serve as their mentors.

New York State’s 2023-24 Hunting and Trapping Licenses Now Available for Purchase!

Deer Management Permit (DMP) Application Deadline

Deer Management Permit Deadline
Application DeadlineOctober 1
WMU SelectionPrior to application, hunters should be knowledgeable of the Wildlife Management Unit (WMU) they want to hunt in.

NY Hunting and Trapping Licenses 2023-2024

New York 2023-24 hunting and trapping seasonDetails
Licenses and Permits On SaleNY Deer Management Permits (DMPs) and hunting and trapping licenses for 2023-24
Purchase OptionsOnline, at license-issuing agents, or by phone
License ValidityHunting and trapping licenses are valid from September 1 to August 31, whereas fishing licenses are good for 365 days.
Supporting ConservationLicense purchases fund DEC conservation efforts and preserve New York's fish and wildlife.
Habitat & Access StampConsider purchasing a $5 Habitat & Access Stamp to support habitat conservation and access improvements
NY DEC Call Center Number
• Hunting and Fishing Licenses Purchase: 1-866-933-2257
• License Issues: 518-402-8843
• Hunter Education Information: 1-888-HuntEd2 (1-888-486-8332)
• Wildlife Questions: 518-402-8883
Call Center InformationThe DEC Call Center is open 7 a.m.–7 p.m. (Mon-Fri) and 9 a.m.–5 p.m. (Saturdays till Nov. 30). Phone orders for hunting permits may take 14 business days.
Requirements for PurchaseContact information, DEC customer ID (if applicable), proof of residence, a valid credit card for online/phone payments, and hunter/trapper education or license are required for purchase.
Deer Management Permits (DMPs)DMPs (antlerless deer tags) available in stores, via phone, and online until Oct. 1. Randomly selected. The DEC website has details.
Education for New Hunters and TrappersMandatory for first-time hunters to take classes before buying a license. In-person and online classes. DEC's website includes study resources and registration details.
Online CoursesNY citizens may take online hunter and bowhunter courses for $24.95 and $30, respectively. Hunting rights are granted upon passing. Details DEC's site
Bowhunter Education CourseOnline certification available for bowhunters and access to Online Courses at https://www.bowhunter-ed.com/newyork/
Junior Hunters and TrappersJunior hunters (12-15) and trappers (12+) may participate in DEC youth hunts and mentorship programs. Website opportunities and information from DEC.
HuntFishNY Mobile AppProvides digital licenses, reporting game harvests, and hunting/fishing info
Additional Hunting OpportunitiesEarly antlerless deer season, junior hunters, holiday deer hunt, and more
New York State DEC Websitehttps://www.dec.ny.gov/press/128238.html

NY Hunting License Replacement

InformationDetails
Address ChangeOnline
Address Change by Phone1-866-933-2257
Address ChangeBy Email
License Issuing AgentAgent Location
Replacement of Licenses/tagsReplacement Agents
Lifetime License HoldersLicense, tags, and back tag mailed by Sept. 1 each year if requirements met and profile updated.
Replacement at agent location between Sept. 1 Nov. 1 for free; after Nov. 1, subject to fees.
Annual & New Lifetime License PurchasesAllow 14 business days to receive license and tags via mail.
Replacement within 60 days of purchase through agent or License Sales office (M-F, 8am-4pm).
Replacements after 60 days subject to fees.
Residency QualificationsPermanent residency for more than 30 days; owning property not constituting residency.
Proof of Residency (Annual Licenses)Various documents accepted as proof of residency
Nonresident Military Members & College StudentsEligible for resident fee with proper proof
Proof of Residency (Lifetime Licenses)Various documents accepted as proof of residency
Military PersonnelMilitary domiciled within NYS eligible for lifetime licenses with proof
Proof of AgeBirth certificate, passport, driver's license, non-drivers photo ID
Licenses as GiftsOnly lifetime licenses for children under 16 can be gifted
Required Documents for Gift PurchasesProof of age, proof of residency (parent/legal guardian proof for children 16 & under)
License Holder ResponsibilitiesCarry license while sporting; display to authorities if requested
Respect private property; license doesn't grant access without permission
Ensure accurate license info; errors invalidate license
No license sharing; non-transferable
Abide by regulations, harvest limits, and seasons

License & Tags Replacement Fees

ReplacementFeesNote
Licenses for fishing, hunting or trapping$5 (per transaction)Annual and lifetime
Recreational marine fishing registration cardNo fee
Carcass tag sets$10 Per set (for deer, bear or turkey)
Hunting Back tagsNo fee

NY Hunting license Cost

NY License/Privilege TypePrice
Hunting (Ages 16+)
NYS Resident 16–69$22
NYS Resident 70+$5
Military Disabled$5
PatriotFREE
Indigenous PeoplesFREE
Non-Resident 16+$100
Junior Hunting (Ages 12–15)
NYS Resident 12–15$5
Non-Resident 12–15$5
Bowhunting Privilege (Ages 16+)
NYS Resident 16–69$15
NYS Resident 70+FREE
Military DisabledFREE
Patriot$15
Indigenous PeoplesFREE
Non-Resident 16+$30
Junior Bowhunting (Ages 12–15)
NYS Resident 12–15$4
Non-Resident 12–15$4
Muzzleloader Privilege (Ages 12+)
NYS Resident 12–69$15
NYS Resident 70+FREE
Military DisabledFREE
Patriot$15
Indigenous PeoplesFREE
Non-Resident 12+$30
Deer Management Permit Application (Ages 12+)
NYS Resident 12–15FREE
NYS Resident 16+$10
Military Disabled$10
Patriot$10
Indigenous Peoples$10
Non-Resident 12–15FREE
Non-Resident 16+$10
Turkey Permit (Ages 12+)
NYS Resident 12+$10
Military Disabled$10
Patriot$10
Indigenous Peoples$10
Non-Resident 12+$20
Trapping
NYS Resident 12–15$5
NYS Resident 16–69$20
NYS Resident 70+$5
Military Disabled$5
PatriotFREE
Indigenous PeoplesFREE
Non-Resident 12–15$5
Non-Resident 16+$275

Stamps/Donation Cost

Stamps / DonationsAge/Special QualifierCost
Habitat & Access StampAny$5
Venison DonationAny$1 or more
Federal Duck Stamp16+$25

NY Hunting Guides 2023

Printable NY Hunting Season Schedule

NY Hunting & Trapping Guide

Hunting Regulations

  • It is illegal to hunt or take wildlife while in or on a motor vehicle, with the help of the vehicle’s lights, on or from any public road, with a firearm fitted with a silencer, an automatic weapon that fires as long as the trigger is held back, or a semi-automatic weapon that can hold more than six rounds (except for weapons modified to hold no more than six rounds when using rimfire ammunition like.22 or.17 caliber rounds). Hunting big game, upland game birds, turkey, or waterfowl over baited areas is also prohibited. (see General License Information)
  • You need permission from the owner or lessee to view animals with lights within 500 feet of a home or farm structure (when looking for deer or bears). Unless it’s a handgun, the weapon must be stored, secured in the trunk, or carried by someone who isn’t driving.
  • New York State regulations regulate firearms and crossbows. Rifles larger than.22 caliber rimfire and shotgun ammunition with slugs or balls are illegal in deer-hunting areas. Westchester and Long Island ban hunting with firearms. Suffolk, Nassau, and Westchester forbid crossbow hunting. Unless you’re hunting coyotes, the Northern Zone prohibits hunting with a dog and a rifle larger than.22 rimfire or a shotgun loaded with slug, ball, or buckshot. New York does not accept handgun licenses from other states. Semi-automatic rifle acquisition and transfer laws are detailed here. (See www.dec.ny.gov & https://safeact.ny.gov/resources-hunters for more information.)
  • Before transferring shotguns, rifles, and crossbows, they must be unloaded and uncocked. Unloading a muzzleloader involves removing the nipple cap, primer, priming powder, or battery. A loaded weapon may be stored in a motorboat that is not propelled or is propelled to recover dead or wounded game birds.
  • Unless you own, lease, are an immediate family member, an employee, or have the owner’s consent, it is illegal to discharge a firearm, crossbow, or bow in such a way that the load or arrow/bolt passes over a public highway within 500 feet (for firearms), 250 feet (for crossbows), or 150 feet (for bows) of any school, playground, factory, church, residence, farm building, or other structure in occupation or use. Waterfowl may be hunted over water within 500 feet of a dwelling or public facility if neither is closer than 500 feet in the direction of the shooting.
  • New York’s wildlife regulations exclude the porcupine, red squirrel, woodchuck, chipmunk, English sparrow, starling, rock pigeon, and monk parakeet. Hunting these non-protected animals with a bow, crossbow, or rifle needs a license. Hunters on licensed shooting preserves must follow the law while taking game animals during the open season.
  • According to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, first-time hunters, bowhunters, and trappers must take a course before getting a license (DEC). DEC began offering online and live hunter and bowhunter education by authorized volunteers in 2020. Visit DEC for information.
  • The free In-Person Hunter Education Program Courses teach hunters and trappers. Register for courses on the official website. Apply early! All courses need homework before attending. (See  https://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/92267.html for more information)
  • The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEChuntereducation )’s program offers online hunting and bow hunter education courses and examinations. After passing the examinations, people may obtain hunting or bowhunting licenses with the certificate. New York State residents may pay for online courses on their website. Trapper education may have been accessible online last season. (See https://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/92267.html)

A Perspective on New York’s Outdoor Season

Fall in New York offers thrilling outdoor adventures, but safe and careful exploration of public areas is the highlight. This voyage requires careful preparation, from communicating your location and projected return with a trusted contact to wearing blazing orange or pink during hunting seasons to increase visibility. Outdoor enthusiasts who nod or greet one other while hiking or hunting form a distinct community, especially during hunting seasons.

The New York State Hunting and Trapping Regulations guide is essential for understanding hunting seasons by area and animal type. Knowing property-specific restrictions for state parks, wildlife management areas, and other public properties enhances the experience. These regions, essential for wildlife preservation, allow hunting, fishing, and trapping, stressing the need of safety, responsibility, and respect while exploring New York’s extensive public resources. View the video by NYSDEC below for a wonderful perspective.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does the New York hunting season start and end?

The New York hunting season for deer and bear is set to begin with bowhunting in the Northern Zone on September 27, 2023, and in the Southern Zone on October 1, 2023. In addition, a Youth Big Game Hunt for hunters aged 12 to 15 will be held from October 7–9, 2023. The Northern Zone’s early muzzleloader season for deer and bear begins on October 14, 2023, and the regular weapons season follows on October 21. Deer Management Permits (DMPs) have an application cutoff date of October 1, 2023. Hunters are urged to abide by the rules and report their kills within seven days in order to prevent Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) in the deer and moose of New York.

What types of animals can be hunted in New York during hunting season?

In New York during the hunting season, various types of animals can be hunted. The types of animals that can be hunted include:

  1. Deer (Regular, Bowhunting, Muzzleloading seasons)
  2. Black Bear
  3. Turkey (Fall and Spring seasons)
  4. Waterfowl (Ducks, Coots, Canada Geese, Brant, Snow Geese)
  5. Upland Birds (Woodcock, Crow, Snipe, Rails, Gallinules)
  6. Small Game (Cottontail Rabbit, Pheasant, Bobwhite Quail, Raccoon, Fox, Skunk, Opossum, Weasel, Coyote, Varying Hare, Gray Squirrel, Red Squirrel)
  7. Furbearers (Bobcat, River Otter, Fisher, Marten, Beaver, Mink, Muskrat)

Each type of animal has its own specific hunting season and regulations as mentioned in the page above.

What are the requirements for getting a hunting license in New York?

To get a New York hunting license, you must meet certain requirements. Firstly, you must be 12 years old. You must also complete a hunter safety course online or in person. This course teaches hunters how to hunt safely and responsibly. These requirements enable individuals to get hunting permits and hunt lawfully in New York.

What are the hunting dates for deer in New York using a crossbow during the 2023-2024 season for individuals over 60 years old?

New Yorkers over 60 may shoot deer with a crossbow during the 2023-2024 hunting season. Hunting is plentiful throughout the Regular Bow Season from October 1 to December 31. These dates provide senior hunters in New York more crossbow hunting options. This season, all Wildlife Management Units (WMUs) except 5A, 9A, and 27 allow crossbows.

NYSDEC Hunting Contacts

NYS DepartmentContact Information
Sporting License Sales1-866-933-2257
Sporting License Office518-402-8843 or fw.information@dec.ny.gov
Hunter Education1-888-HuntEd2 (1-888-486-8332) or Hunter@dec.ny.gov
Wildlife: Hunting on Long Island Information631-444-0310 or wildlife.r1
Bureau of Wildlife518-402-8883 or wildlife@dec.ny.gov
Special Licenses518-402-8985 or SpecialLicenses@dec.ny.gov

Hunting Dates & Schedule Source:

dec.ny.gov

John Lewis

2 thoughts on “New York Hunting Seasons 2023 [Latest NYS Hunting Rules]”

  1. When ARE WE GOING TO BE ABLE TO CROSS BOW HUNT FOR THE HOLE SENSON I CAN NOT PULL BACK ENOUGH POUNDS AND HOLD IT SO I JUST GET A WEEK OR SO I’M 69 years old

    Reply

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