Revealed! The Secret About New York State Hunting

There is a secret that New York State hunters know about that keeps many of us heading back to the woods!

This fall sure has been interesting. The warm October was met with mountains of snow for some in November. This year's deer season sure had it's share of weather changes and while some had massive success, others felt the weather may have impacted the deer and their movement.

But as we turn the page to a new year, the last part of 2024 has been warmer and wet and made for a few nice days to hunt with kids!

READ MORE: The Massive Hunting Law Change For New York State

I have been hunting for decades here in New York State with a fair amount of success. Last season, I was lucky to get a nice buck with my crossbow. It was on a rare evening that I had free.

As a father of four kids under the age of 8, "free time" is not something our family has a surplus of. From sports, to school events and our jobs, my wife and I are on the go constantly. However, as nice as it was to get that deer last fall, I honestly would not care if I got another big buck like that again.

There is a secret that some of us who have hunted long enough know. Being in the woods is a win no matter the deer activity. But if you have the chance to take your kids hunting, that is as good as it gets!

My four year old and I spent some time in the woods during the "Holiday Hunt" this past weekend. Yes, he moves a lot. Yes, he talks without whispering. But none of that mattered on this hunt. To see Gus smile and get excited to be with me deer hunting is the only trophy I need anymore.

We saw ZERO deer on this hunt. In fact, we saw ZERO wildlife at all. But it is a start.

I am in no way an expert Hunter. I am also in no way an expert father. Gus started to get cold and wanted to leave 45 minutes in to our hunt-so we left! I didn't want to spoil what was a great afternoon, filled with good memories, by forcing us to stay "just a little longer". It was enough for Gus and there will be plenty more days in the woods ahead.