Muzzleloading enthusiasts in New York State’s Southern zone are gearing up for their late muzzleloader season, starting December 13 and running to December 21, and then December 26 to Jan 1, 2022.

The addition of the Dec 26-Jan 1 timeframe is a new addition this year, to the delight of many muzzleloading enthusiasts.

Late bowhunting and muzzleloading seasons run from Dec. 13 through Dec. 21, and again from Dec. 26 to Jan. 1, the latter of which is an extension from past years. Hunters taking part in these special seasons must possess a hunting license and either bowhunting or muzzleloading privileges.

In the Northern Zone, the regular deer and bear hunting season opened Oct. 23 and closes on Dec. 5. The Northern Zone includes the Adirondacks, Tug Hill Plateau, Eastern Lake Ontario Plain, and the Champlain and St. Lawrence valleys.

New this year, 12- and 13-year-old hunters can hunt deer with a firearm when accompanied by a licensed, experienced adult in counties that 'opted in' to the pilot program.

The DEC encourages hunters to review new safety regulations and changes this season that will enhance their hunting experience.

"New York's hunters are among the state's most important conservationists," Commissioner Seggos said. "Hunters help to balance deer and bear populations with local habitats and land uses while providing more than 11 million pounds of quality, locally grown, organic meat to sustain families. With more opportunities to venture afield this season, I encourage New Yorkers to continue practicing the key tenets of hunter safety for a safe and enjoyable time outdoors."
-From the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation