New York State Comments on this Trap Ban

As the regular firearm deer season winds down across New York State, it’s clear that this year has been a whirlwind. The season kicked off with an interesting crossbow stretch due to new regulations and legislation, and it wrapped up with plenty of successful hunters taking some truly impressive bucks statewide. Now, as hunters hang up the orange for the year, it’s time to look ahead to what’s next in the field and the weather is cooperating for anyone who enjoys cold temperatures and fresh snow.

Small Game and Trapping Season Hit Their Stride

Watching the Thanksgiving snowfall from my back door reminded me how much great hunting remains for those of us who love small game. Trapping season is also underway here in New York, and anyone running a trapline at sunrise is finding excellent conditions.

However, there are limitations that new hunters and trappers, and even seasoned one, need to keep in mind. New York has very specific laws and regulations, and staying informed is essential.

Know the Laws: Snare Traps Are Banned in New York

There are countless videos online from other states and Canada showing hunters and trappers finding success with a variety of methods. But New York State and the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) enforce strict guidelines to protect wildlife populations and ensure that hunting and trapping traditions remain sustainable.

In many cold-weather regions outside New York, snare traps are commonly used for small game, especially rabbits. But in New York State, snare traps are illegal. According to state law and the DEC website, this type of trap is banned entirely.

"Snares cannot be used for trapping".

Several other traps also fall under strict guidelines, so always check the DEC’s official updates and legislation around hunting and trapping can shift quickly.

Read This First: Special Warning to Rabbit Hunters in New York State

A Reminder: Regulations Can Change Fast

If this year taught us anything, it’s that regulations can change right up to the moment a season opens. Just this past summer and early fall, crossbow rules were adjusted ahead of the recent archery season. Many hunters I’ve spoken with who used crossbows this year said it turned out to be one of their most successful seasons yet.

A trapping course is "Required for persons who have never possessed a trapping license. The trapping course is at least 8 hours in length and is free".

Cold Weather Arrives as Firearm Season Wraps Up

Bitter cold is on the way. Forecasts for Western New York call for overnight temperatures dropping into the single digits as we head into the first full weekend of December. With the final weekend of the regular firearm season approaching, hunters who still have an unused doe tag may find success filling it before the season closes.

Keep the Tradition Alive This Winter

As we transition into the heart of winter, remember that we still have a couple of months of excellent small-game hunting and trapping ahead. Stay safe, stay warm, and,most importantly, share the tradition. Encourage newcomers and get kids involved in the outdoors. Passing down these skills and experiences ensures that hunting and conservation in New York State remain strong for generations to come.