Adirondack deer hunting

If you're a deer hunter you've probably heard about hunting in the vast Adirondack mountains. You've probably heard about the remoteness of it all, the solitude, the rugged terrain, and the chance of encountering the buck of your dreams somewhere up there in the high country.

Located in southern Essex County, New York, The Adirondack Hub is an exceptional basecamp for a day of hunting, or even a weekend. This is big country; it's about as big as it gets in New York state. It's the kind of place where a deer can grow old, grow a rack you've always envisioned for your wall, and grow to approach that magical 200-pound field-dressed mark that the locals gauge as a true Adirondack trophy buck.

Hardcore hunters make annual pilgrimages every fall, to trek deep into the backcountry, prepared to go one-on-one with that big buck, and also prepared to return safely without getting turned around in the big woods and losing their bearings. You have to know what you're doing up here, but the rewards can be great for the deer hunter who cuts a big track in the snow.

More than just whitetail

The Adirondack Hub is more than a hunting destination for whitetail deer. It's also a place where small game flourishes. Ruffed grouse, pheasant, and American woodcock are plentiful game birds in this area of New York’s Northern Zone, and there are chances to take an Adirondack turkey in both the spring and fall seasons. Furbearers such as bobcats and coyote can also be hunted and trapped here, and become more popular once the area is covered in snow in the latter part of their hunting season. You can find the full list of game available in the Adirondack Hub along with each animal’s season by visiting NYS DEC’s current hunting year schedule.

What to know when planning your Adirondack hunt

You probably have your own hunting essentials checklist, but as with any hunt in unfamiliar territory there are bound to be some questions you’ll have before you pull the trigger on deciding to embark on your first Adirondack hunting trip. Fortunately there are experienced hunting guides based right here in the Adirondacks that will make sure you’re prepared for your time in the woods as well as increase the odds you’ll return home with your bag limit and the hunting experience of a lifetime. In addition to hiring a guide, it’s recommended that you familiarize yourself with New York’s hunting regulations along with any relevant information below provided by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.

Game harvest reporting

Current New York hunting season dates

Future New York state deer and bear hunting seasons

Eastern Adirondacks State Recreation Land locations

Purchase hunting licenses in New York

LEAVE NO TRACE AND LOVE YOUR ADK

The magic of the Adirondacks is the result of previous generations taking a long view and protecting the mountains, lakes, and rivers within the Blue Line. That tradition continues today as we support and encourage everyone to practice Leave No Trace ethics, which help protect the lands and waters of the Adirondacks.