There's Always Room at the Table

Across cultures and throughout history, hunting and trapping has been more than a means of procuring food and fiber; it has been a cornerstone of tradition, culture, and identity.

As with many timeless traditions, sharing food fosters a deep sense of community, to which everyone can relate. Having a seat at the table and bonding over a meal of wild game with family or friends may simply be an opportunity for some people to enjoy nature’s bounty; for others it may be the gateway to begin hunting for their own food. Sharing a game meal prompts reflection on memories and aspirations surrounding the joy of the outdoors.

Beyond the dinner table, hunting and trapping are communal activities that bring people together in a shared pursuit. Whether through an annual family gathering to hunt or a group of friends enjoying a weekend adventure, the camaraderie in the field is unmatched. From planning the hunt to tracking game, celebrating the day’s successes or learning and laughing through the failures, each step of the journey strengthens the bonds between hunters and trappers.

This year’s Hunting and Trapping Regulations Guide highlights many customs surrounding hunting and trapping and ways in which you could develop or strengthen your own traditions. As you read throughout, you might find a new recipe, discover new hunter education opportunities, or learn how some traditions change or repeat themselves in New York State. Regardless of the depth of your hunting and trapping experience, or lack thereof, we encourage you to learn something new, share the experience with others, and build your own traditions.

Mentees and mentors enjoying a wild game dinner from the vertical bow deer hunt hosted by Hunters of Color, New York Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, and The Nature Conservancy. Left to right: Frederick T., Zsakee L., Tracey C., Chris B. and Jonathan B. enjoying their harvest.