What's new for 2024 deer hunt: Night vision law, hunter orange rule, harvest reporting

SALT LAKE CITY (KUTV) — Utah's 2024 deer and elk hunting season is approaching, and the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources has released crucial information for hunters planning to take to the wilderness with their bolts or ammo.

This comprehensive guide covers hunt dates, population updates, and expert tips for a successful hunt.

Key Points: 2024 Archery and Rifle Deer Hunt

• General-season archery hunts for buck deer, spike elk, and any-bull elk start Aug. 17
• Any-bull elk hunts with any legal weapon: Oct. 5-11 and Oct. 12-18
• Buck deer hunt (any legal weapon): Oct. 19-27
• Muzzleloader elk hunt: Oct. 30 - Nov. 7

Deer Population Update

• Northern Utah: Recovering from severe 2022-23 winter
• Southern Utah: Favorable conditions, above-average survival rates

Elk Population

• Current estimate: 80,600 (slightly above 80,000 target)
• Archery antlerless and late-season any-bull permits still available

New for 2024

Here are the new and updated changes for this year's hunt that you might not be aware of.

Mandatory Harvest Reporting

• Now required for all general-season buck deer and bull elk hunts
• 30-day reporting window after season ends
• $50 fine after 30 days
• Failure to report results in exclusion from 2025 applications
• Harvest survey can be done online or by calling 800-221-0659
• Visit DWR's harvest reporting site for list of mandatory information you'll need

Hunter Orange Update

• New requirement replaces previous "400 square feet" rule
• Hunter orange must be worn on exterior clothing where it can be seen
• Must be on a hat, shirt, jacket, coat, vest or sweater, or combination
• Must be visible while hunting any species of big game
• Exceptions included in DWR's updated guidebook

Muzzleloader Scope Restrictions

• Scopes stronger than 1x power prohibited on all muzzleloader hunts
• Allowed: Open sights, peep sights, red dot, 1x power scopes
• Any power scopes permitted during legal weapon hunts
• Valid visual-impairment certificates of registration for scopes with magnification are permitted during muzzleloader hunts

Arrow and Bolt Length

• Length restrictions removed for airgun, archery, and crossbow hunting
• Arrows or bolts must travel at least 400 feet per second at the muzzle
• Additional crossbow specs are listed in DWR's updated guidebook

Night-Vision Device Rules

• Now "unlawful to possess" (not just use) from July 31 to Dec. 31
• Aligns with trail camera regulations, which are also illegal from July 31 to Dec. 31

For complete details, consult the 2024 Utah Big Game Field Regulations guidebook or wildlife.utah.gov.

Expert Tips from DWR Big Game Coordinator Dax Mangus

1. Use Utah Hunt Planner for unit-specific information
2. Scout hunting areas before the season
3. Practice with your equipment
4. Hunt away from roads, especially for elk
5. Pay attention to wind direction
6. Be prepared for weather changes and emergencies
7. Use stealth and patience, especially for archery hunting
8. Cool harvested meat quickly in hot weather

"Thorough preparation and adaptability are key to a successful hunt," Mangus advised in a statement. "Utah's diverse terrain and wildlife populations offer exciting opportunities for hunters this season."

For detailed regulations and more information, consult the 2024 Utah Big Game Field Regulations guidebook or visit the DWR website.