HUDSON VALLEY- Deer and bear hunting seasons are underway across much of the Hudson Valley, and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation is reminding hunters in Orange, Sullivan, Dutchess, and Ulster counties to review the 2026 regulations before heading into the woods.
Early bowhunting seasons for deer and bear in most of the Southern Zone opened October 1 and continue through November 20. The dates coincide with the start of fall hunting activity throughout the region.
The state’s Youth Firearms Big Game Hunt is scheduled for October 10 through 12 for hunters ages 12 to 15. Participants must follow state eligibility requirements, and all youth hunters must be accompanied by an experienced, licensed adult. Special restrictions apply to 12 and 13-year-old hunters based on county participation.
Several new deer hunting regulations also took effect this year, aimed at increasing the harvest of antlerless deer, particularly does, to help manage growing populations.
Under the new rules, hunters who harvest and report an antlerless deer using a valid antlerless deer tag can earn a second antlered deer tag. The state has also expanded the number of Wildlife Management Units offering unlimited Deer Management Permits, allowing hunters in designated units to obtain permits throughout the season.
DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton urged hunters to familiarize themselves with the changes and follow safety requirements throughout the season.
Hunters can find detailed season dates, permit information and regulations on the state Department of Environmental Conservation’s website at , under hunting and trapping seasons.
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