Hunting
Hunting in the Adirondacks
In the Adirondack wilderness, where hunting is permitted on all state lands, you can spend days chasing a trophy buck or a black bear deep in the Northern Zone backcountry. This is rugged, remote country where the challenge of a successful hunt is inseparable from the deep solitude and natural beauty of the six-million-acre park. Get your tags and start researching below.
Safe hiking during hunting season
If you find yourself hiking during hunting season, a reminder that the trails are shared with hunters! Be sure to wear your blaze orange, know the hunting season dates, keep your pets leashed, and be respectful to all hunters. Find more information here on how to safely hike during hunting season.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, all hunters age 12 or older must possess a valid New York State hunting license to take any wild game with a firearm or bow. Additional privileges or permits are required for Bowhunting, Muzzleloading, and Turkey.
Seasons vary by weapon and Wildlife Management Unit (WMU), but the regular firearm season for deer and bear generally runs from late October through early December. Archery and Crossbow seasons begin earlier, in September and October. Check the NYSDEC website for official dates.
Hunting is permitted on vast tracts of public land (like Wilderness Areas and Wild Forests), but you must follow all state and local regulations. This includes, but isn't limited to, not hunting from a public road, using a motor vehicle off maintained roads (unless permitted), or leaving personal property (stands, traps) after the season ends.
It is illegal to hunt big game, turkey, upland game birds, or waterfowl with the aid of bait or over any baited area. This includes placing salt blocks or mineral licks on lands inhabited by deer at any time of year.
Yes, all are required to wear fluorescent orange or fluorescent pink clothing while hunting with a firearm.