New York Proposes Introduction of Digital Hunting Tags
Posted 2025-07-11 by
The DEC plans to implement the use of electronic carcass tags for deer, bears, and turkeys
New York hunters may soon be able to use their smartphones to tag deer and other game. (Photo by Karel Bock)
If the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation’s (DEC) proposal goes through, deer hunters in the state might be able to use their smartphones to tag deer, bears and turkeys.
According to Democrat & Chronical, the digital tag is one of three changes proposed by the DEC in an effort toward modernizing the process, expanding opportunities for youth hunters, and enhancing deer management.
The other two proposed regulations include a reduction in the harvest reporting deadline, and adjustments to the Deer Management Assistance Program (DMAP).
"These proposals reflect public desires for enhanced hunting opportunities and more effective deer management," said Jacqueline Lendrum, director of DEC’s Division of Fish and Wildlife.
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The DEC plans to implement the use of electronic carcass tags for deer, bears, and turkeys. If the proposal is approved, hunters will have the option of using the DEC's HuntFishNY mobile app to report their harvest and obtain an electronic tag, eliminating the need for a physical tag while the carcass remains in the hunter’s possession. Hunters can submit harvest reports through the app even without cell service, storing the information until a connection is available. Hunters would need to attach a physical tag containing their name and reporting confirmation number if they plan to leave the carcass unattended or if they deliver it to a taxidermist or processor.
The reporting deadline will be shortened from seven days to 48 hours for hunters who prefer paper tags, ensuring faster oversight.
The DEC also proposes to offer youth hunters who successfully use their regular season tag during the Youth Big Game Hunt a replacement tag for the regular firearms season. The replacement tag will be for a deer of the opposite sex, so the youth hunter can have additional opportunity to participate in the season.
The DEC asks the public to review the proposed changes and submit comments by Aug.18. Send comments to [email protected] with the subject line “e-tags and DMAP,” or send by mail to: NYSDEC, Attn: Deer Hunting Regs; 625 Broadway; Albany, NY 12233-4754.
