Deer Management Permits (DMPS)

Deer Management Permits (DMPS) are available at all license-issuing outlets, by phone, or online through Oct. 1. DMPS are used to manage the deer herd and are issued through an instant random selection process at the point of sale. The chances of obtaining a DMP remain the same throughout the application period; hunters need not rush to apply. The 2021 chances of selection for a DMP in each Wildlife Management Unit are available online, through license-issuing agents, or by calling the DMP Hotline at 1-866-472-4332. Detailed information on Deer Management Permits and this fall’s Deer Season Forecast is available on DEC’S website.

The 2021-22 Hunting and Trapping Regulations Guide, which provides an easy-to-read collection of pertinent rules and regulations, is available on the DEC Hunting webpage. Copies will be available soon at license-issuing agents.

Online and In-person Hunter Education Training Courses

All first-time hunters, bowhunters, and trappers must pass one or more courses before purchasing a license. Online and inperson courses are available. In-person courses have a field day where new hunters can get hands-on experience. All in-person courses are free of charge, but space may be limited. Courses fill quickly, so early sign-ups are encouraged. Visit DEC’S website for more information on materials, including a list of courses and course registration.

The requirements to earn a New York State hunter education certificate can be met by completing DEC’S online hunter education course and passing the exam. Upon passing, participants will receive a hunter education certificate, enabling the purchase of a hunting license. Participants must be New York State residents and the cost of the course is $19.95. The online course can be accessed at DEC’S website.

New York State also offers an online bowhunter education certification course. Upon passing, hunters receive their bowhunter education certificate so they can purchase a bowhunting privilege. Participants must be New York State residents and the cost of the course is $30. The online course can be accessed at DEC’S website.

New Hunting Opportunities

Deer hunters will have several new opportunities this year, with a law change that allows 12- and 13-yearold hunters to pursue deer with a firearm or crossbow under the supervision of an experienced adult hunter in upstate counties that opt-in to participate (see the Junior Big Game Hunting map). In addition, DEC created a new holiday deer hunt, an extended portion of the late bow and muzzleloader season from Dec. 26 to Jan. 1, in the Southern Zone. These are new opportunities for young hunters to be mentored by experienced adults and for families to hunt together during the holiday season.

DEC is also proposing additional hunting-related changes, which are currently out for public review and comment. If these proposals are adopted, DEC will notify the public by means of a press release and email newsletters.

Opportunities for Junior Hunters and Trappers

To foster the next generation of hunters in New York, DEC has expanded opportunities for junior hunters (licensees aged 12-15) and trappers (under 12 years old) by designating special youth hunts for deer, wild turkey, pheasants, and waterfowl. These opportunities allow youth hunters and trappers to spend time in the field with experienced adults and gain the necessary knowledge and skills to become safe and responsible members of the hunting and trapping community. More information about these programs and other opportunities for junior hunters and trappers is available on DEC’S website.

Remember: Hunt Safe, Hunt Smart!

The number of huntingrelating shooting incidents is declining, but even one incident is too many. Hunters can prevent injuries and fatalities by following the cardinal rules of hunting safety: 1. Assume every gun to be loaded; 2. Control the muzzle in a safe direction; 3. Keep your finger off the trigger until firing; 4. Be sure of your target and beyond; and 5. Wear hunter orange or pink.

Tree stand falls are a major cause of hunting injuries. These huntingrelated injuries are easily preventable. Hunters are advised to use a fullbody harness and fall-arrest system and stay connected from the time they leave the ground until the time they return. Hunters are advised to check their stands (including straps and chains) every season and replace worn or missing parts. The proper use of tree stands and full-body harnesses helps prevent injuries and fatalities.

SHORT CASTS Summer Wild Turkey Sighting Survey

DEC conducts the Summer Wild Turkey Sighting Survey annually. They are conducted during the month of August to estimate the average number of wild turkey poults (young of the year) per hen statewide and among major geographic regions of the state. This index allows DEC to gauge reproductive success in a given year and allows them to predict fall harvest potential. Weather, predation, and habitat conditions during the breeding and brood-rearing seasons can all significantly impact nest success, hen survival, and poult survival.

During the month of August, Department staff and volunteers record the sex and age composition of all flocks of wild turkeys observed during normal travel. If you would like to participate, print or download a Summer Wild Turkey Sighting Survey form (PDF) from the DEC website (dec.ny.gov/animals/48732. html) to record your observations. Detailed instructions can be found with the data sheet. Completed survey forms can be mailed to: Turkey Survey, NYSDEC, 625 Broadway, Albany, NY 12233-4754. Or you can submit your observations online, but not both since that distorts the data.