SULLIVAN COUNTY – The New York State and Pennsylvania Big Game regular firearm seasons ended on Sunday, December 11 and many hunters had success throughout the region.

The Sullivan County Democrat sponsored its 49th Annual Big Buck Contests with the help of several local sports shops and businesses.

The 2022 winner of the Sullivan County Democrat Big Buck Contest was Dave Cross of Liberty, who took his massive 8 pointer in Livingston Manor. In addition to a free mount, courtesy of Rod’s Taxidermy in Callicoon, Cross will with a $150 first place check from the Sullivan County Democrat.

David’s buck scored an impressive 80.50, to win the contest by two points over Martin Hynson of Grahamsville, who will win a $75 check from the Democrat. Third place went to Glenn Molusky of Cochecton, who shot a 13-pointer measuring 76.50.

In the heavy deer contest, James Meyers bagged a 9-pointer that dressed at 190 to win the $100 prize. Second place went to Chris Smith with an 180-lb buck, good for $75, and third place went to Sal Tantillo with a 172-lb. buck. Sal will win a $50 check from the Democrat.