Oklahoma deer hunters may have heard about Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) afflicting deer and elk in other states. CWD is a neurological disease that affects the brains of deer, elk, moose, and other members of the deer family, creating holes that resemble those in sponges. It is always fatal to the animal, and no treatment or vaccine against CWD exists at this time. CWD has been confirmed in wild deer and/or elk in Oklahoma and surrounding states including Texas, New Mexico, Colorado, Kansas, Missouri, and Arkansas.

How and when Oklahoma’s hunting season dates are set can get complicated. But for the most part, hunting seasons are either the same date or the same weekend every year. For example, deer muzzleloader season opens the fourth Saturday in Oct. and runs for nine days through Sunday. And rabbit season opens Oct. 1 and runs through March 28.

• El Nino helps drive quail numbers to eight-year high Upland Game Biologist The August 2024 roadside quail survey shows the statewide quail index up substantially over 2023, climbing from 2.23 to 6.52 quail per route surveyed. This result is 28.8% above the 35-year statewide average of 5.06 quail per route, and 92.3% above the 10-year average of 3.39 quail per route.

The Young Hunter’s All-Season Pass to the Outdoors A new license is simplifying access to hunting for youth in Oklahoma, making it easier and more affordable for parents to get (and keep) their kids involved in the outdoors while cashing in on more valuable family time.

.

• Entrants are eligible to “win only one time” during the regular contest period and may be eligible for the Bowl contest. • Entry blanks are available at all sponsor locations.