For motorists, a deer hunter is the best defense between you and an auto insurance claim. In Ohio, hunters are a critical part of managing the deer population and this deer season will be no exception.
Archery season in Ohio for deer hunters began on September 24th and will run through February 5th, while deer gun season will begin on November 28th and end on December 4th, with a bonus season December 17th and 18th. Hunters using a muzzleloader will have another opportunity in the New Year, with a four day season January 7th through January 10th, and youth deer gun season will be November 19th and 20th.
Once again, bag limits have stayed the same as last year. In Auglaize, Darke, Mercer, and Shelby counties, hunters will be under the two-deer bag limit. These bag limits are established by county lines, so you should consult the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) handbook on bag limits in other counties. Hunters this year will be using the electronic checking system, which has successfully reduced administrative concerns during deer season and ensures that permit money is put to better use.
ODNR is tasked with managing the deer population in the state and considers multiple factors before establishing bag limits. We are currently seeing the benefits of a major push a few years ago to thin the deer population in the state—a practice that results in healthier deer. Ultimately, these state policies are focused on improving the hunting experience in Ohio. Whether you are hunting with a bow or a gun this deer season, please be safe and remember to wear your orange.
Please give me your opinion on this topic and other issues in the news by completing a brief online survey at tinyurl.com/buchyoctober2016
