HARRISBURG (Newsradio 1020 KDKA) – A long held tradition in Pennsylvania may be about to change. For decades the Monday after Thanksgiving has been the first day of antlered deer season. But as fewer hunters head into the woods the Pennsylvania Game Commission is considering moving the start up two days to the Saturday after Thanksgiving.
“We’re looking to engage that next generation of hunters,” according to Rob Miller who advises Governor Tom Wolf on Game Commission issues. “We’re concerned that there aren’t enough hunters replacing those who are retiring now.”
The idea is that more people are available to hunt on weekends. “And more school districts aren’t allowing kids to hunt on that first day, taking that Monday off,” said Miller
The Commission gave preliminary approval this week to a Saturday start. Board members will receive feedback from hunters. A final vote is scheduled for April 9th.
The Commission will also consider allowing semi-automatic rifles to be used to hunt big game like deer in Pennsylvania. Currently, semi-automatics are allowed only for small game. That vote is expected in July.
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