The Columbus Day weekend also marks the special youth firearms season for deer in NYS.  Youth age 14 and 15 may hunt deer with a firearm under direct supervision of a parent, legal guardian, or qualified mentor.  Jr. Hunters age 12 and 13 may also hunt this special season under supervision, except in Erie and Rockland Counties.

Bag limit is one (1) deer, antlered or antlerless, and must use with the Regular Season tag (valid for deer of either sex during the youth hunt), DMP and DMAP, in appropriate WMU.  Only the youth hunter may possess a lawful hunting implement afield.  Hunters must hunt from the ground.  All engaged in youth hunt, the youth and mentor alike, must wear safety orange or pink while hunting.  Hunting hours are 1/2 before sunrise to 1/2 hour after sunset.

For more information, please visit the DEC website.