CONCORD, N.H. -- New Hampshire hunters have taken an estimated 5,102 deer statewide as of November 9, according to the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department. Two days remain in the muzzleloader season, and archery deer hunters have been afield since September 15. The long-awaited start of the regular firearms season is this Wednesday, November 12, with various numbers of either-sex days in each Wildlife Management Unit (WMU). Be sure to check the 2014-2015 NH Hunting & Trapping Digest for WMU specific regulations (available at license agents or online at http://www.wildnh.com/pubs/hunting.html).

"The season is off to a strong start and hunters have been reporting seeing lots of deer. Many hunters are likely looking forward to the start of the firearms season, but with an increasing number of hunters afield, hunters are reminded that wearing blaze orange greatly reduces hunting related incidents and keeps everyone safer," said Dan Bergeron, Fish and Game's Deer Project Leader.

The statewide estimated deer kill to date of 5,102 is the fifth highest in the last nine years, exceeded by 2007, 2013, 2012 and 2006 respectively. The 2014 totals represent a 16% decrease in harvest from the same point last year. Hillsborough, Rockingham, and Grafton Counties are showing the highest registrations to date.
Hunters are also reminded that, under new regulations this year, the deer baiting season ends on November 19 in all Wildlife Management Units except WMU M and on Governor's and Long Islands, where it will remain open through December 15. Also, hunters holding a Disabled Veterans or Paraplegic hunting license can continue to bait for deer through December 15 statewide. A baited area shall not be considered an active bait site when all containers used to hold bait and all bait materials are completely removed.

Successful hunters can continue to help the less fortunate by donating venison. Contact the NH Food Bank at (603) 669-9725 for more information.

Hunting season dates and information for all game species can be found in the 2014-2015 N.H. Hunting Digest. For more information on hunting in New Hampshire, as well as license and permit sales, visit http://www.huntnh.com.


CONTACT:
Dan Bergeron: 603-271-2461
Jane Vachon: 603-271-3211