DEC: Bear Bow-hunting Season for Northern Zone begins September 17

The season for bow-hunting bears in select zones in Northern New York begins Saturday, September 17.

According to the DEC, this applies for Wildlife Management Units 6A, 6G, 6K and 6N. Regular bear season in WMU’s 5A, 5C, 5F, 5G, 5H, 5J, 6C, 6H and 6J will also begin that day.

Per regulation changes enacted last-year, hunters and anyone accompanying them must wear a solid or patterned fluorescent orange or fluorescent pink hat, vest, or jacket when seeking to harvest deer or bear with a firearm.

Also, hunting hours for deer and bear now include the full period of ambient light from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset.

In addition, twelve- and 13-year-old hunters can hunt deer (not bear) with a firearm or crossbow when accompanied by an experienced licensed adult.

Images courtesy via the New York State DEC.