Right now, black bear are the only big game being hunted legally in Vermont. But as autumn progresses, so does the big game hunting season. Archery seasons open in October for moose, turkey and deer. Before the end of October, hunters will be out tracking moose and turkey. Deer season comes with much fanfare in November, and continues into December.
The Vermont Department of Fish & Wildlife has released its annual list of big game reporting stations and game wardens, organized by county. The department is also disseminating the following tree stand safety tips:
- Buy smart. Only use stands certified by the Treestand Manufacturers Association (TMA).
- Inspect them each time you use them.
- Know the rules. On state lands, it is illegal to place nails or other hardware into trees or to build permanent structures. On private lands, you must have landowner permission to erect a tree stand, cut or remove trees or other plants, or to cut limbs. All stands, including ground blinds, must be marked with the owner’s name and address.
- Always wear a full-body safety harness, even for climbing. Most falls occur going up and down the tree and getting in and out of the stand.
- Don't go too high. The higher you go, the vital zone on a deer decreases, while the likelihood of a serious injury increases.
- Never carry firearms or bows up and down trees. Always use a haul line to raise and lower all gear. Make sure your firearm is unloaded.
- Familiarize yourself with your gear before you go. The morning of opening day is a poor time to put your safety belt on for the first time.
- Be careful with long-term placement. Exposure can damage straps, ropes and attachment cords. Also, the stand’s stability can be compromised over time, as the tree grows.
- Hunt smart. Hunt safe. Wear Orange.
