The 2019 decision by the Pennsylvania Game Commission to move the start of rifle deer season from Monday to Saturday has disrupted longstanding traditions and hurt rural businesses.
According to a Spotlight PA article, hunters now rush to camps for the weekend, spending less time in local communities, resulting in lost revenue for businesses. While the change aimed to make hunting more accessible, critics argue it harms rural economies and disregards hunters’ preferences, with surveys showing many favor a Monday opener.
The Game Commission defends the decision, citing a plateau in hunting license sales after years of decline, but discussions about reverting to the Monday start continue among lawmakers and stakeholders.
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