HARRISBURG, PA — As the vibrant colors of fall sweep through Pennsylvania, over 350,000 bowhunters prepare to take to the woods, marking the start of the state’s highly anticipated archery deer season. This annual event, cherished for its blend of tradition and modernity, kicks off on September 21 in select Wildlife Management Units (WMUs) around Pittsburgh and Philadelphia, extending through January 25.
Game Commission Executive Director Steve Smith captures the essence of the season, stating, “No other state has as many bowhunters as Pennsylvania. It’s a special time, with the chance to hunt against a backdrop of amazing fall color and the whitetail rut.” His words resonate with the community of hunters who embrace the challenges and rewards of pursuing deer with stick and string.
This year’s season is not just a testament to the sport’s popularity but also its impact. In the previous 2023-24 season, archers contributed significantly to the state’s deer harvest, accounting for 36% of the total with 154,850 whitetails taken. This aligns with trends across the Northeast, where archers are responsible for about 34% of all deer harvested, according to the National Deer Association.
Key to a successful hunt, as noted by David Stainbrook, the Game Commission’s Deer and Elk Section Supervisor, is understanding deer behavior. He advises hunters to focus efforts around areas rich in food and cover. “Scout for fresh deer sign, especially where green browse and mast are abundant, near thick escape cover,” Stainbrook suggests. However, he emphasizes the importance of time spent in the field, adding, “Putting more time in the woods is going to increase your odds of harvesting a deer.”
Safety, as always, remains paramount. Hunters are urged to inform others of their whereabouts, carry a cellphone for emergencies, and practice safe tree stand usage by employing full-body harnesses. Additionally, responsible equipment handling and shot selection are crucial for ethical hunting.
The season also brings increased attention to Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD), a pressing concern for wildlife management. Andrea Korman, the Game Commission’s CWD Section Supervisor, stresses the importance of managing this disease, noting, “Our deer herd requires protection from this threat.” This year sees an expansion of Disease Management Areas to better control the spread of CWD, with hunters urged to comply with specific regulations regarding deer harvests within these zones.
Beyond safety and disease management, hunters must adhere to equipment regulations. Acceptable gear includes long, recurve, and compound bows with a minimum draw weight of 35 pounds, and crossbows with at least 125 pounds of draw weight. Hunters are reminded to use illuminated nocks for tracking and avoid equipment that damages trees or penetrates their bark on state lands.
The archery season’s success relies on a combination of preparation, adherence to safety guidelines, and commitment to conservation efforts. As hunters embark on this year’s journey, they not only partake in a time-honored tradition but also contribute to the ecological balance and health of Pennsylvania’s deer population. With the season underpinned by robust management strategies and a shared passion for the hunt, Pennsylvania’s bowhunters continue to set a benchmark in wildlife stewardship.
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