Vermont’s rifle deer season starts Saturday, Nov. 12

Hunters are gearing up for the start of Vermont’s statewide traditionally popular 16-day rifle deer season that begins Saturday, Nov. 12 and ends Sunday, Nov. 27.
A hunter may take one buck during this season with at least one antler having two or more points. Spike-antlered deer, mostly yearlings, are protected during this season.
“Vermont’s pre-hunt deer population is estimated at approximately 145,000 this year with the greatest numbers of deer found in the northwest, southwest and east-central regions of the state,” said Deer Project Leader Nick Fortin.
Fish & Wildlife urges hunters to wear a fluorescent orange hat and vest to help maintain Vermont’s very good hunting season safety record.
The 2016 Vermont Deer Hunting Guide can be downloaded from the department’s website at www.vtfishandwildlife.com. The guide includes a map of the wildlife management units (WMUs), season dates, regulations, and other helpful information.
Vermont’s regular hunting licenses, including a November rifle season buck tag and a late season bear tag (for Nov. 12-20), cost $26 for residents and $100 for nonresidents. For hunters under 18 years old the cost is only $8 for residents and $25 for nonresidents.
Licenses are available on Fish & Wildlife’s web site www.vtfishandwildlife.com and from license agents statewide.