Favorable conditions expected for fall hunting seasons

The upcoming fall hunting season is projected to be average-to-good or even outstanding across various regions due to favorable environmental conditions.

In Texas, experts from the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service report that precipitation trends and population surveys suggest an average-to-good season for key game species. While there have been concerns regarding New World screwworm cases in June, no confirmed cases have been found in wildlife yet. Containment efforts and monitoring by landowners and hunters are expected to help mitigate risks to fawns and does. Additionally, dove populations are estimated to be near record highs.

In Maine, favorable weather patterns during the spring and summer have promoted healthy game populations. Mild winters and adequate moisture have supported plant productivity, which is essential for species like deer and bears. Due to an increasing deer herd, more antlerless deer permits are available this season, potentially leading to record harvests.