CLOTHING: Dress in layers. Start off with a base, moisture-wicking layer using Under Armour or some other synthetic material. Avoid cotton. Second layer should be either Polartec fleece or another wool sweater or thermal underwear. Over that, put on a jacket that is waterproof and made of “breathable “ material. Don’t forget your orange vest and hat. Use a waterproof, insulated pair of gloves. Also, bring at least two packets of disposable hand warmers.

Ready foR THE HunT The regular deer hunting season for firearms in the state’s Southern Zone begins at sunrise Saturday and stretches to Dec. 12.

Veteran hunter Matt Frackelton, 28, of Baldwinsville, is among those eager to get out opening day. Here is the essentials list each hunter — beginner or veteran — should check off before heading into the field.

To get up to date with the latest rules and regulations, see the state Department of Environmental Conservation’s hunting and trapping guidebook, or click on the DEC’s Web site at www.dec.ny.gov for more information.

By David FiguraOutdoors editor

KNOW THE LAW / YOUR BACK TAG:

Hunting hours are sunrise to sunset. Display your back tag prominently on your back and make sure that all the carcass tags contained within your license are valid for what and where you’re hunting. For example, you can’t shoot a doe unless you

have a Deer Management Permit for the Wildlife Management Unit you’re hunting in. In most Central New York counties, only shotguns, muzzleloaders and handguns are allowed. Hunters can use centerfire rifles in Madison County.

YOUR GUN: It should be thoroughly cleaned and sighted-in to make sure it shoots straight and there’s no

problems. New ammo is also a good idea. Many hunters protect the metal and wood parts of their guns from the elements (rain or snow). Some hunters put a coat of metal

preservative or gun oil on the metal and paste-type floor wax on the wood. In the case of snow or heavy rain, some hunters put a baggy with a rubber band, or a piece of electrical tape over the muzzle to keep the water out.

BOOTS AND SOCKS: Best bet are tall (mid-calf ) rubber or lace-up water proof boots with at least 1,000 grams

of insulation. As for socks, go with a wool or wool-blend. Avoid cotton. Also, bring two packets of disposable toe/feet warmers.

CALLS AND SCENT LURES: Some added extras include scent (which mimics a female deer in estrus), a doe bleat or grunt call — and antlers (fake or real), which hunters rattle to mimic two bucks facing off. The smells and sounds can draw a buck or a doe close in for a shot.

ON SYRACUSE.COM www.syracuse.com/outdoors and see: A video on how to field dress a deer. Commonly asked questions, with answers provided by the DEC.

FIELD-DRESSING

EQUIPMENT: Bring a pair of plastic

gloves and a good sharp, hunting knife. Some

hunters bring a plastic bag for the deer’s heart and liver,

which some consider a delicacy. Pack a rope to drag the carcass, or have some other plan to get it out of the forest or field.

GO OUT WITH A PLAN, LET OTHERS KNOW: Before you go out, let someone at home know where you’re going and how late you plan to stay out. Bring a compass (or

hand-held GPS), and a cell phone or walkie-

talkie. In addition, pack water and extra food,

along with a flashlight and a lighter (or matches) in the event

you get lost, or have an unexpected overnight stay night in the woods.

AFTERWARD: Tagging/reporting your deer: Fill out your tag immediately after the deer is

determined to be dead, and unload your firearm if you don’t have any more vaid tags. Don’t put the tag on the deer, though, until you reach the road or point of pickup as dragging the carcass might accidentally detach the tag. State law requires hunters to report their deer through the DECALS system within seven days. (That’s new for this year) Failure to do so can result in a ticket costing up $250. Be forewarned. There is a one-year-statute of limitations on this regulation. Either call 1-866-426-3778 ,or on the web at www.dec.ny.gov

If it’s a trophy: Don’t delay. Get it to a taxidermist as soon as

possible, particularly in warm weather. Some taxidermists are OK with the hunter cutting off the shoulder mount themselves if they’re experienced; other taxidermists prefer to do it themselves. �

JUNIOR HUNTERS: Hunters ages 14-15 can hunt deer. Requirements include:

n You must possess a junior hunting license. �

n You must be with by adult (21 years or older) who has a valid hunting license. �

n The adult must maintain physical contact with the young hunter. This means being close enough to talk without aid of a radio and both must be able to see each other.

n The young hunter must stay on the ground. He or she cannot use a tree stand.

n It’s strongly recommended that both have shirts or jackets and/or hats that are “hunter

orange”-colored.

Clothing and supplies provided by Gander Mountain’s Cicero store.