Area contests underway as buck season opens

Wednesday, November 30, 2011

NEW BETHLEHEM - While bargain hunters were looking for good deals on Black Friday, hunters weren't looking for much in the way of cut-rate deer but would be mighty satisfied with the assist of a white Monday for the opening of Pennsylvania's buck season.
Every little edge is helpful in the quest for the elusive whitetail and a little covering of snow can be a big aid for all hunters heading to their favorite hunting location.
But while some Black Friday shoppers were downhearted when the bargains they were seeking weren't available, almost all hunters were highly disappointed when the weatherman threw them a big curve for the first day of deer season. Although there was precipitation, it wasn't in the form of snow but rather hunters were greeted with rain that put a damper on their hunting spirit. Not only were the big game seekers relegated to spotting the crafty deer against the background of fall's drab colors, they would be confronted by soggy conditions. Not only would it be somewhat wet in the woods, milder temperatures than usually associated with late November will be around Monday and Tuesday as the 2011 rifle buck season gets underway.
Those participating in the upcoming deer season will be able to file their mandatory harvest reports through the Pennsylvania Game Commission's online system; the toll-free Interactive Voice Response telephone harvest reporting system, which is 1-855-PAHUNT1 (1-855-724-8681); or via postage-paid postcard.

For the complete story and list of successful local hunters, along with photos from the first day of deer season, see the Nov. 30 issue of The Leader-Vindicator.