FORECAST:
Bigger, but fewer bucks

Deer populations have dipped in many sections of northcentral Pennsylvania, but there are some big bucks out there. Turkey hunters and other outdoor enthusiasts confirm Pa. Game Commission reports of largeantlered bucks roaming the forests and fields of Potter and Cameron counties. The two-week rifle deer season opens on Monday, Nov. 26, and runs through Dec. 8.

Wildlife Conservation Officers Mark Fair and Doty McDowell confirm that deer numbers are down in southern Potter County and all of Cameron County, but where quantity has dropped, quality has risen. "Deer numbers are low by historical terms, but monster buck sightings are frequently occurring in most townships," Fair said. "If large-racked bucks are your preference, then your hunting conditions are excellent."

"Antler restrictions have had a huge impact," McDowell agreed. "I have seen bucks in the past few years that I could only dream about 10 years ago . . . Yes, deer numbers are down, by design, but with some pre-season scouting and a little work during the season you can still be very successful."

WCO Bill Ragosta, whose district covers the portions of Potter and McKean counties north of Rt. 6, said deer populations have been holding their own in that region.

"Although some hunters continue to complain of low deer numbers, they're present in good numbers in my district," Ragosta said. "The average size/age structure is better than it has been in recent memory."

Deer hunters are advised of the recent change in legal hunting hours. It now is legal to hunt from one-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset.

Hunters must wear 250 square inches of fluorescent orange material on the head, chest and back combined. It's illegal to hunt, chase or disturb deer with a firearm within 150 yards of any occupied building without the occupant's permission.

All hunters who take a deer must fill out their harvest tag and attach it to the deer's ear before moving the carcass.