VERMONT — The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department is reminding deer hunters that Vermont’s youth, rifle and muzzleloader seasons fall on relatively late dates this year. Youth weekend is Nov. 9-10 and rifle season begins on Nov. 16. Both seasons are beginning one weekend later than normal. Muzzleloader season begins on Dec. 7.
Vermont’s November rifle deer hunting and youth weekend dates are set by law and revolve around Thanksgiving. Due to the late date for Thanksgiving this year, these deer seasons begin later than usual. Nearly two weeks will have elapsed between the close of archery season and youth weekend this year. Normally the gap is less than one week.
“We have received calls from hunters who are confused about the dates,” said Col. David LeCours, head of law enforcement for the Fish & Wildlife Department. “Hunters should be sure they have the correct date before heading out. The Fish & Wildlife Department calendar, the law digest, and the department website all contain the correct dates and we encourage hunters to reference these materials.”
The Vermont Fish & Wildlife website is www.vtfishandwildlife.com.