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Hunting Guide To The Adirondacks

In New York's Northern Zone, hunters take to the woods each fall with bows, muzzleloaders and rifles in search of adventure.

two men hunting in the Adirondacks

Traditional New York Hunting Seasons

Hunting is permitted on all state lands, so the hunting territory is considerable. Please be considerate of posted private lands. Please find the latest 2022-2023 New York State Hunting seasons and information here: https://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/65231.html

  • Bow Hunting Season - Archery season for deer and black bear opens September 27 (every year) and continues through the next-to-last Saturday in October.
  • Deer & Bear Season - Deer and bear season commences yearly on the next-to-last Saturday in October and continues through the first Sunday in December.
  • Muzzleloading Season - Muzzleloading season for deer and bear is the seven-day period ending on the day before the regular season begins. (Noted above)
  • Early Bear Season - Early bear season starts annually on the first Saturday after the second Monday in September through the day immediately preceding the opening of muzzleloading season.
Adirondack hunter; image credit to Brendan Wiltse

Coyote Hunting Season

Coyote hunting is currently one of the fastest-growing sports in the country. With approximately 20,000 to 30,000 coyotes in New York state, there are plenty of opportunities in the Adirondack Park.

Coyote hunting is referred to as predator hunting because it falls under the same hunting techniques as hunting foxes and bobcats. Essentially, the hunter becomes the prey. Coyote hunting is difficult because the animals are so cunning and adaptable to their surroundings and situations. Native Americans have said that coyotes will be the last survivors on the earth because of their skills.

hunting rifle aiming to shoot

Fishing in the Adirondacks