McClory: Deer numbers up from last year in Bay State

On Monday, Dec. 1, on opening day, when checking in my deer at the division headquarters in Acton, I got a chance to speak to one of our state deer biologists. During my conversation with Eric, this year’s deer harvest numbers came up in the conversation. I was very much surprised to hear that the count for the archery season was up over 100 deer. Eric also mentioned that the opening morning count so far was also up from last year. This was surprising information, considering all the initial reports and predictions of lower numbers because of last winter. The official counts will be coming in soon.Primitive firearm hunters in Massachusetts get to test their skills and their patience on whitetail deer starting this morning. If you haven’t tagged your deer yet, you still have until the end of the year to use your muzzleloader. As an added bonus, bow hunters can still take to the woods during the statewide primitive firearm season that runs from today, Dec. 15, through Dec. 31. You must abide to the firearm season rules by wearing a minimum of 500 square inches of hunter orange on the head, back, and chest and purchase a primitive firearm stamp. A doe tag is required to harvest a deer with antlers less than three inches in the management zone you are hunting.Tis the season for me to share some of my favorite outdoor niceties that I have discovered over the years which I have personally used, tried, or would appreciate. I noticed on TV during the last two weeks advertisements making light of some of the presents one finds under the tree on Christmas morning. Well, if you are looking for a wildlife-related gift for that special outdoor or wildlife enthusiast that’s sure to be a hit, try some of these items. First and foremost, a hunting/fishing license will be appreciated by the sportsman or woman in your life. Licenses will be available for sale online or through license vendors throughout the state by mid-December. This is a gift that will be remembered all season long. You might want to include the archery and primitive firearm stamps. There are a number of publications from MassWildlife, like “Critters of Massachusetts,” “Field Guide to Dragonflies and Damselflies,” “A Field Guide to the Animals of Vernal Pools” and “The Massachusetts Wildlife Viewing Guide,” all for less than $20. Another great gift is one of my favorites that will come in handy for finding that secret fishing hole. It is a copy of “Fresh Water Guides of New England.” Matt Desmarais has done a great job on this series of reference books that tell everything you need to know about a particular body of water for less than $20. Each guide is broken down into geographic areas that include all the lakes and ponds in that area. Almost anything you could ask about a body of water is included in each guide, from depths, size, access points, and species of fish; plus, informative articles on suggested means of catching a trophy fish of a lifetime are included. Check out the website at www.nefreshwater.com for additional information and Christmas special pricing. Everyone should carry a leatherman. This is one of the handiest tools to have by your side when a piece of equipment needs adjustment and the knife blade is sharp enough to take care of cleaning any fish or game. Mini mag lights are another should-have item in your pocket. If you sit on a stand until the last minute, it’s nice to know you will be able to see on your way back to your vehicle. Another handy nicety is a nylon deer drag. Yes, a rope works just fine, but these work even better. It’s one of those things you would never buy for yourself, but it’s a great stocking-stuffer that the kids can get you that you will eventually use and appreciate if you haven’t already tried one. Another one of my favorite gifts is a gift certificate to Kittery Trading Post or Blue Northern Trading in Ayer.The US Sportsmen’s Alliance (USSA), the nation’s leader in defending your right to hunt, fish and trap, and Remington Ar