RE: New Years Resolutions for NY Hunting & Hunters
Now let’s look at some of the other issues and resolutions related to hunting in New York.
Saturday Opener – As I mentioned earlier, I wasn’t overly enthused with this notion. I liked the tradition of Monday openers, not to mention the 2 prime days to bow hunt. I have heard that the number of hunters in the woods on opening day really hasn’t changed since the weekend opener started (which was the main reason for it). Maybe there could be a compromise and open it on Sunday?
Youth Hunting & Seasons – I have never been a big proponent of lowering the hunting age (at least drastically). I don’t necessarily like the idea of 8 year old kids, who often need assistance operating a firearm, out in the woods actively hunting. I just don’t think the maturity level and responsibility required for safe hunting are there at that young of an age. However, I do realize the need/benefits of reducing the age somewhat to get a bit more inline with the rest of the country. Maybe lower the hunting ages to 11 and 14 for small game, turkey, waterfowl, etc. and big game, respectively. And by all means, take those younger kids into the woods as much as possible, even if they can’t carry a gun. I like the idea of the early youth turkey hunt and can’t believe that there are some so selfish to complain about kids getting an early opportunity to bag a turkey. I don’t necessarily see a need to have a designated early youth deer season, but if one was instituted (say first year, 14 year old hunters) I would be fine with it.