Late December marks a natural transition in the hunting calendar — not everyone agrees with hunting during the late holiday deer season, opening the door to other exciting opportunities — particularly waterfowl and pheasant hunting — that keep hunters active outdoors as Christmas approaches.

Across much of the state, small game seasons remain open well beyond the close of firearms deer season. Pheasant hunting, in particular, continues to draw strong interest thanks to ongoing stocking efforts by the NYSDEC. Stocking takes place throughout the fall and into winter in many areas, giving hunters continued chances to enjoy productive walks afield with family, friends, or a trusted bird dog.

To help hunters locate these opportunities, the DEC recently introduced a new interactive “Pheasant Mapper.” This online tool allows users to quickly identify stocking locations across the state, including the dates and quantities of birds released. Hunters can zoom in on specific areas, making it easier than ever to plan a hunt close to home or explore a new property. While stocking schedules are carefully planned, the DEC admits that inclement weather can impact actual release dates, so checking the mapper is one way to sort out details.

In addition to pheasant resources, the DEC has expanded its waterfowl hunting tools with a dedicated “Places to Hunt Waterfowl” page and companion app. Like the pheasant mapper, the waterfowl resource includes an interactive map that displays season dates, public and private access locations, and other important site-specific information. Whether targeting ducks or geese, hunters can use these tools to identify suitable wetlands, waterways and fields across the state.

NYSDEC Illustration The pheasant season for 2025-26 continues through the holiday period for many areas of New York state.

One of the standout features of both the pheasant and waterfowl mappers is their mobile-friendly design. Hunters can pull up the maps on a smartphone while in the field, zooming directly to their location of interest. For those who enjoy scouting new spots or navigating unfamiliar territory, this technology adds a layer of convenience that previous generations could only imagine.

Of course, finding a promising location is just the beginning. Hunters always need to carefully review property rules and access regulations wherever they hunt. Some lands may require permission, have special restrictions, or fall under local regulations that differ from statewide rules. Verifying access ahead of time helps ensure a positive experience.

Late-season hunting also brings unique conditions. Shorter days, colder temperatures, and the possibility of snow or ice that require extra preparation. Dressing appropriately, planning shorter hunts, and maintaining awareness of weather conditions all contribute to a safer and more enjoyable outing.

For many hunters, these late-season pursuits are about more than harvesting game. They provide a reason to stay connected to the outdoors during a reflective time of year. Quiet marsh mornings, frost-covered fields, and the companionship of fellow hunters offer moments of peace amid the busy holiday season.

As Christmas nears, New York’s hunting traditions continue — just in different forms. With small game, pheasant, and waterfowl seasons still open in many areas, hunters have plenty of reasons to lace up their boots, shoulder their gear, and enjoy everything the winter landscape has to offer. With the help of the new interactive tools, planning that next hunt has never been easier.

Gotta love the outdoors.

CALENDAR

Dec. 25: Merry Christmas.

Dec. 26 to Jan. 1: NYS Southern Zone late archery/crossbow/muzzleloader special deer-only season. Regular firearms are not allowed.