The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has announced the start of bowhunting season for deer and bear, with big changes this year that expand access for hunters across the state.
Bow season for deer in the Northern Zone began September 27, and in the Southern Zone, both deer and bear seasons begin October 1. Bear season in the Northern Zone has been underway since mid-September.
One major change for 2025: Crossbows are now allowed during the entire bowhunting season and in bowhunting-only areas, giving hunters more flexibility and access across both rural and developed regions.
“This is an exciting time of year,” said DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton. “Late summer weather, fall foliage, and plentiful big game populations combine to create outstanding conditions.”
Crossbow access gets a major boost
Thanks to a new law signed by Governor Kathy Hochul, hunters can now use a wider variety of crossbows without previous limitations on size or draw weight. The rule changes also make it easier to use crossbows in urban and suburban zones where only vertical bows were once permitted.
To hunt with a crossbow, hunters still need a valid hunting license and bowhunting privilege.
Youth Big Game Hunt returns October 11–13
The state’s annual Youth Big Game Hunt will run from October 11–13. It’s open to junior hunters aged 12 to 15 who are accompanied by an experienced, licensed adult. Only the youth may carry a firearm.
The hunt is open statewide except for Westchester, Suffolk, and designated bowhunting-only areas. Hunters ages 12–13 may only participate in counties included in the youth firearm pilot program.
Chronic Wasting Disease testing effort continues
The DEC is asking hunters in parts of Herkimer and Otsego counties to help test for Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) by submitting deer heads for sampling. A case was confirmed last fall at a captive deer facility in Herkimer County, though the disease has not yet been found in wild deer.
Sampling drop-off locations and more information are available on the DEC’s CWD Sampling page.
Hunters encouraged to donate venison
Hunters can also help fight hunger by donating venison through the state’s Venison Donation Program. Donations of whole or partial deer, especially those harvested using bow or crossbow (or with lead-free ammunition), are welcomed at cooperating processors.
Details on donation sites and best processing practices are available on the DEC website.
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