Dec 10, 2024
Modern in-line muzzleloader rifles use a modern ignition system with a 209 primer that allows for safety and easier loading compared to traditional flintlock or percussion cap muzzleloaders. Forrest Fisher photo
The NYS Southern Zone Regular Big Game Hunting Season (firearms) ended 30 minutes after sunset on Sunday. Opening day for the NYS Southern Zone late big game season for archery, muzzleloader and crossbow opened the next day, Dec. 9, at 30 minutes before sunrise and will run through Tuesday, Dec. 17, at 30 minutes after sunset.
Archers only need their archery license to partake in the hunt, black powder rifle hunters need their muzzleloader license, and crossbow hunters need a muzzleloader license and their NYS crossbow certification statement with their signature (in the syllabus) to use a legal-size crossbow in New York State. We are a state of many rules and regulations as our hunters continue to diminish.
The good news amongst all the rules for this special late big game season is that hunters can use a regular season deer(buck) tag for a deer of either sex. Do remember that the visibility rules during this season also apply: Hunters and anyone accompanying them must wear fluorescent orange and pink clothing while hunting with a firearm.
Late-season hunts are often quieter and more solitary than in the regular season. It is a special time for hunters to enjoy the stillness of the woods, with far fewer hunters in the woods. The winter air can seem crispier, and the peacefulness of the landscape can allow hunters a moment or three to reflect on the patience and skill required to pursue big game for this special 9-day season. While it is warming for the next day or two, late-season hunting often requires special preparation with heavier clothing. In addition, using a muzzleloader requires special considerations for those returning to traditional hunting methods with a focus on precision and skill in loading and firing their black powder firearms.
However, the in-line muzzleloaders are similar to regular rifle hunting. Both types of muzzleloaders leave a giant cloud of gunpowder smoke that removes the hunter-shooter ability to see forward, so be absolutely sure of your shot. It will be a few seconds before you can follow the intended target, but tracking will be much easier with all the snow we have. Crossbow hunters, remember to keep your fingers on the side of the rail, not the top, where it is seemingly easier to grip the crossbow. It hurts when you take a shot; worse, you’ll miss the target.
Lastly, it’s a time of the hunting year for reflection, celebration and the enjoyment of nature. A time to show honest respect for the deer just ahead of the holiday festivities where there is opportunity to share in the success of the hunt with a wild game family dinner. Good luck to all.
Gotta love the outdoors.
Outdoor Calendar:
Nov. 23-Jan. 19: Late Canada Goose Season – South Area. See syllabus. Nov. 30-Dec. 14: Pennsylvania Regular (firearms) Deer Season. See https://www.pgc.pa.gov.
Dec. 9-Dec. 17: NYS Southern Zone Late Big Game Season for archery, muzzleloader and crossbow.
Dec. 12: Erie County Federation of Sportsmen, monthly meeting, 5895 Southwestern Blvd., Hamburg, 7PM.
Dec. 15: Last day of NYS Great Lakes musky season.
Dec. 26-Jan. 1: NYS Southern Zone Holiday Deer Hunt Season for archery, muzzleloader and crossbow.
NOTE: Send Calendar info or related outdoor news to forrestfisher35@yahoo.com.
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