New York hunters now have the option to go fully digital for their licenses and tags — and young hunters are getting a new bonus, too.
The Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) announced this week that hunters can now use electronic tags (e-tags) through the HuntFishNY mobile app as an alternative to traditional paper tags. The change is part of a package of hunting updates aimed at making the process easier and more efficient.
With the new system, hunters can carry licenses and report harvests directly from their phones — even without cell service. Those using e-tags won’t need to attach a physical tag to deer, bear, or turkey as long as they keep the carcass with them. If left with a processor or taxidermist, a homemade tag with the hunter’s info must be attached.
For those still using paper tags, the DEC has tightened the reporting deadline from seven days to 48 hours to encourage prompt reporting and improve enforcement.
Bonus tags for youth hunters
Youth hunters ages 12 to 15 who harvest a deer during the Youth Big Game Hunt weekend can now qualify for a bonus tag. If they don’t already hold a Deer Management Permit, they’ll receive an extra regular season tag valid for a deer of the opposite sex from their youth hunt harvest.
The bonus tag will be mailed directly to eligible hunters.
More changes for landowners and bowhunters
DEC also expanded its Deer Management Assistance Program (DMAP), giving landowners more flexibility. The renewal cycle has been extended from three years to five, and there’s no longer a cap on how many DMAP tags a single hunter can fill on a permitted property.
Finally, starting this fall, hunters can use crossbows during the same seasons and in the same areas as traditional vertical bows for deer and bear.
For full details and regulations, visit the DEC website.
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