In this edition of the Big Buck Registry's Deer News, we bring you twelve key stories every hunter should know as we head deeper into 2025. From Washington D.C. to the backwoods of Wisconsin, this roundup covers everything from sweeping conservation wins and poaching crackdowns to predator control, CWD outbreaks, and controversial legislation. Congress wraps up the Biden era with major investments in wildlife and outdoor access, while states wrestle with issues like buck limits, deer tag programs, and firearm restrictions. Whether you're in the tree stand, driving the backroads, or tuning in from camp, this is the news shaping the future of whitetail hunting across America.
- ACE & EXPLORE Acts (Washington, D.C.) Congress passes two bipartisan bills funding CWD research, wetlands restoration, and outdoor access—plus mandates broadband in public rec areas and shooting range construction.
- ESA Reform & Fish & Wildlife Director Nominee (Washington, D.C.) Proposed changes to the Endangered Species Act stir debate, and Brian Nesvik's nomination to lead the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service raises concerns among environmental groups.
- Wisconsin Poaching Crackdown Over 250 deer were illegally killed in one of the largest poaching crackdowns in state history. Offenders face jail time, steep fines, and decades-long license bans.
- Texas Deer Smuggling Operation Texas Game Wardens file 1,200+ charges in a massive deer breeding and smuggling case. Violations include CWD testing failures and falsified records.
- Maine Coyote Hunting Bill Rejected A bill aiming to restrict coyote hunting to a defined season is shot down. Officials say year-round control is vital to protect deer, pets, and livestock.
- Ohio CWD Cases Increase Ohio reports 24 new cases of Chronic Wasting Disease this season. Wildlife officials expand surveillance zones and urge hunters to submit samples.
- Oklahoma Buck Limit Proposal Lawmakers consider reducing the annual buck limit from two to one. Some hunters support the change; others want more data before backing the bill.
- Florida Antlerless Deer Rule Changes Hunters in Deer Management Unit D2 can now harvest antlerless deer all season long on private land. The bag limit increases to better manage the herd.
- Pennsylvania Deer Season Opener Debate A new bill seeks to shift the season opener back to Monday after Thanksgiving. The move would restore tradition but may limit access for some hunters.
- Michigan Doe Tag Legislation Proposed legislation offers hunters two free antlerless tags with a base license, aimed at reducing herd size, crop damage, and deer-vehicle collisions.
- Maryland Lead Ammo Ban Fails Efforts to phase out lead hunting ammunition stall in the state legislature. The debate over wildlife safety and affordability continues.
- Colorado Gun Law Tightens Colorado passes a law restricting semiautomatic firearms with detachable magazines. Hunters express concern over how it may affect traditional sporting use.
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