Hunting FAQ

Answer:

12-13-year-old hunters can only hunt black bear if they also possess a Junior Bowhunting license. If they do have the bow license, they can hunt black bear with a bow during bow season.

New legislation was adopted in 2021 that allows 12-13-year olds the ability to hunt deer with a rifle, shotgun, muzzleloader and crossbow during the corresponding seasons but does not change their ability to hunt bear.

More information on this change can be found at: https://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/46245.html.