Great News For Crossbow Hunters In New York State

Governor Hochul has signed new hunting legislation for New York State, and it's actually good news for crossbow hunters.

Bow hunting season is going to look a little different this year. People who have wanted to use a crossbow to hunt big game are now going to be able to do it.

Hunters are going to be allowed to use crossbows to take big game in New York

Lawmakers know it as Senate Bill S6360A, but hunters will get to know it as the crossbow law now. It became a law late on Tuesday night after Governor Kathy Hochul signed it. The Bill set out to amend the environmental conservation law by clarifying and changing provisions governing the use of crossbows for hunting in New York.

In simpler terms, it means that longbow season now includes recurve bows, compound bows, and crossbows.

There are also fewer restrictions

The new law also takes away some previous restrictions that included the bolt length, limb width, overall length, and maximum draw weight.

However, they should be aware that the bow will still need a working "safety" feature and have a minimum peak draw weight of 100 pounds.

"This is a win for conservation and for increasing avenues of hunter recruitment, retention, and reactivation. We look forward to working together in the future on conservation and preservation of the heritage of hunters, anglers, trappers, and outdoor enthusiasts across New York State." - New York State Conservation Council President Keith Tidball

To read the new law in its entirety, click here.