In an agreement with the states of New Jersey and Connecticut, NY Governor Cuomo issued a statement on April 18 that said NYS boat launches would be open for boaters. But strict social distancing guidelines will have to be followed and abided by. All three states agreed to a partnership to follow the COVID-19 guidelines.

Governor Cuomo stated, “Throughout this pandemic, we're worked closely with our friends in neighboring states to implement a uniform regional approach to reducing the spread of the virus. Aligning our polices in this area is another example of that strong partnership, and will help to ensure there is no confusion when it comes to marinas and boatyards.”

Access to boat launches will be allowed under CDC/New York State Department of Health guidelines for preventing the spread of colds, flu and COVID-19 virus. They include: 1. Try to keep six feet of distance between you and others. 2. Avoid close contact, such as shaking hands. 3. Wash hands often or use a hand sanitizer. 4. Avoid surfaces that are touched often, such as rails, posts and tie off cleats.

In addition New Yorkers have been requested to wear masks in public when appropriate social distancing can- not be maintained.

DEC and State Parks recently announced that other than at campgrounds, docks were being installed at boat launches across the state, much to the delight of anglers.

PA keeps Saturday

deer opener

Pennsylvania Game Commissioners at their April board meeting all agreed, without comment, to go with a Saturday deer opener and then also allow hunting on the following day, a Sunday. This will create an opening weekend for the first time ever in Pa.

The 2020-21 deer opener will open on the first Saturday after Thanksgiving for the second year in a row. The decision was based in large part on who took part in the Saturday opener last season.

The Game Commission board said they went out on a limb last year in moving the deer opening day for the first time in 60years from a Monday to a Saturday. The reason was in hope that this change would give working people with limited time off, students in high school and college and non-residents an opportunity to get into the woods and from license sales figures, it seems to have worked.

Commissioner Tim Layton said the Game Commission Board will likely continue with a Saturday deer opener for a few more years to see which way things trend.

Jack Danchak is the President of the Federation of Sportsmen's Clubs of Sullivan County.