Public comments urge changes to management buck hunting strategy at Pentagon

During the recent DWR RAC Meeting for the Northeastern Region, held on April 17, 2025, discussions centered on the management of deer hunting permits and strategies, particularly focusing on the management buck hunt. Participants highlighted concerns regarding the average number of hunting days and the effectiveness of current permit allocations.

One speaker noted that the average hunting days for the past couple of years have been 3 days for general hunting and 2.2 days for rifle management. This data reflects a trend where hunters are not able to effectively target older, more desirable bucks due to the limited time available. The speaker emphasized that the current management strategy appears to be resulting in the harvesting of younger deer rather than achieving the goal of improving the genetic quality of the herd.

A significant point raised was the need for a more equitable distribution of permits across different hunting methods, particularly for archery and muzzleloader seasons. The speaker argued that archery hunters tend to harvest the best bucks due to their ability to pattern deer behavior during the warmer months. They suggested that by adjusting the timing and distribution of permits, hunters could better target older bucks before they migrate to areas where hunting is not permitted.

The discussion concluded with a call for the Division of Wildlife Resources to consider these recommendations in future permit allocations. The implications of these changes could lead to a more balanced approach to deer management, potentially enhancing the hunting experience and improving the overall health of the deer population in the region.

As the meeting wrapped up, participants acknowledged the importance of these discussions in shaping future hunting regulations and ensuring sustainable wildlife management practices. The next steps will involve further analysis of the proposed changes and their potential impact on both hunters and the deer population.