New York State Hunters Comment on These Hidden Fees
The 2026-2027 New York State whitetail deer hunting licenses are now on sale.
After months of discussion and debate, there are several changes to hunting regulations this fall. It is shaping up to be an exciting season, as hunters have more opportunities than ever to harvest deer. Many hunters across New York have also noticed that local whitetail populations appear to be strong heading into the season.
August is moving along quickly, and we’re getting ready for county fairs and the Great New York State Fair. Around this time every year, I start getting the itch to head back into the woods. There is nothing quite like those crisp fall mornings, watching the leaves begin to change while sitting in a tree stand, waiting for a mature whitetail buck to walk by.
I’ve also noticed my trail cameras have started picking up more activity over the past several days. Those cooler mornings seem to have deer on the move.
More Doe Permit Opportunities in New York
When you purchase your hunting license this year, you’ll find there are more opportunities than in previous years to obtain additional doe permits in New York State.
Read More: Massive Changes to Hunting This Fall in New York State
Be sure to check with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) for all of the updated regulations, application deadlines, and information on how to acquire multiple deer management permits.
Watch Out for These Hunting License Fees
There is one fee that hunters may not notice if they aren’t paying close attention when purchasing a license.
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation recently announced that hunters can print their hunting licenses at home. However, if you purchase your license from an issuing agent and have them print it for you, you could be charged a $1 printing fee.
"Beginning with the 2024/2025 license year, all New York sporting licenses, tags, and other printable items were formatted to fit on 8.5 x 11 plain paper. If you make a purchase at a License Issuing Agent (LIA) and they print your transaction, they are able to charge a $1 printing fee. When purchasing online or over the phone and you request to have your items printed and mailed, you will be charged a $2 fee".
In addition, if you request that your hunting licenses or tags be mailed to you, New York State may charge a $2 mailing fee.
The goal is to reduce paper usage, as hunters can now use an electronic hunting license on their smartphone instead of carrying a printed copy. If you do print your license at home, remember not to print it double-sided.
"In the field, hunters and trappers may carry a plain paper copy of their license and tags, or an electronic copy of their license and tags in the free HuntFishNY mobile app. Either form is sufficient for proof of licensure and tags".
Get Ready Before Opening Day
Have you been practicing with your bow, rifle, or shotgun?
Staying sharp and accurate is a major part of being a responsible hunter. Before taking any shot, it’s important to identify your target, know what lies beyond it, and make every effort to ensure a quick, clean, and humane harvest.
It’s Time to Get Ready for Hunting Season
This is the time of year to start preparing for everything that comes with hunting season, and the first step is purchasing your hunting license.
If you want to avoid the additional printing or mailing fees, consider using the mobile license option or printing your license at home.
You may also want to look into purchasing a lifetime sporting license. For hunters who plan to spend many years in the woods, or parents with children who intend to hunt, it can save money over time and eliminate the need to purchase a new license every season.
