New York State reported its safest hunting season on record in 2025, with just seven hunting-related shooting incidents and no fatalities, according to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC).
Nearly 600,000 New Yorkers participate in hunting each year, helping manage wildlife populations while enjoying outdoor recreation. Of the seven shooting incidents reported last year, five were self-inflicted, one involved an unlicensed hunter, and one involved multiple people.
The DEC also documented nine falls from tree stands or elevated platforms, including one fatality. Officials emphasized that most injuries can be prevented by following basic hunter safety rules and using a fall-arrest system, which keeps hunters securely attached to trees while climbing or hunting from elevated positions.
The DEC continues to promote safe hunting through its Hunter Education Program, volunteer instructors, and public awareness campaigns. Hunters are encouraged to always follow safety guidelines, wear bright clothing, and properly use fall-arrest systems when hunting from heights.
For more information on hunter education courses and safety statistics, visit the DEC’s Hunter Education Program webpage.
