Firearm deer harvest down 2% statewide

Preliminary results from the 2024 Nebraska November firearm deer season show statewide harvest was down 2% from 2023 and down 24% from the 2019-2023 average.

This was more successful than expected for the Nov. 16-24 season as November Firearm permit quotas were reduced 13% from 2023 in response to declining deer populations.

Mule deer buck harvest increased 9% from 2023, while whitetail buck harvest fell 2%. Antlerless mule deer harvest declined 10% from 2023, while antlerless whitetail increased 2%. All harvest levels are down significantly from the five-year average. Total deer harvest for the firearm season has declined each year since 2019.

“Nebraska Game and Parks significantly reduced permit quotas, intending to reduce harvest this year, due to lower numbers of deer,” said Luke Meduna, Game and Parks’ big game program manager. Deer populations in Nebraska have been declining in recent years due to drought conditions, severe winters and increased permit quotas in 2019 and 2020.

“Despite those lower deer populations and permit quotas, many Nebraska hunters found success and created great memories in the field this season,” he said.

Overall, November Firearm permit success was 2% higher at 40% this year, compared to 38% in 2023.

Final harvest results will be available following the close of all deer seasons. Archery season closes Dec. 31, while muzzleloader season is Dec. 1-31. The late antlerless season is Jan. 1-15, while the River Antlerless late season is Jan. 1-15.

Hunters are invited to learn more about the 2024 season, big game research, management and more at the big game public meetings scheduled in person and online beginning Dec. 9. Find a meeting at Calendar.OutdoorNebraska.gov.

Find additional information about deer management, harvest success and other hunting opportunities at OutdoorNebraska.gov. Hunters wishing to donate venison through the Deer Exchange or Hunters Helping the Hungry programs can also find more details there.