Sizable Deer Hunts Mark Days Five and Six of Massachusetts Season

The ongoing shotgun deer hunting season in Massachusetts saw a series of impressive catches during days five and six, specifically on November 10 and 11, 2023. Despite frigid temperatures, hunters in Franklin County reported notable successes, showcasing the region’s rich hunting tradition.

On Friday, November 10, Cameron Valez from Turners Falls checked in a substantial eight-point buck weighing 154 pounds at Bitzer Hatchery. John Herron of Shelburne followed suit with a remarkable 173-pound, 11-point buck, also recorded at Gould’s Sugarhouse. The excitement continued into Saturday, when Joseph Lesenski of Whately brought in a 155-pound, 10-point buck at Sunderland Hatchery. Dylan Fisher from Northfield topped the day’s results with a notable 178-pound, six-point buck, contributing to an invigorating weekend for local hunters.

David Walker, another local enthusiast, made headlines by checking in two impressive bucks at Bitzer Hatchery on the same day: one weighed 123 pounds and the other 147 pounds, both eight-pointers. Meanwhile, Tucker Hicks of Turners Falls also had a remarkable showing on Saturday, checking in two significant bucks weighing 157 pounds (eight points) and 171 pounds (ten points).

A few late results from Thursday, November 9, highlighted Donald Wilda of Hadley, who registered a striking 200-pound, eight-point buck. Franklin County resident Brian Harris also added to the notable counts with a 190-pound, five-point buck checked in on the same day.

The results continued to roll in over the weekend, with numerous hunters achieving successful hunts. Specific results from Sunderland Hatchery on Thursday included:

– Donald Wilda, Hadley, 200 pounds, 8 points
– Brian Harris, Sunderland, 190 pounds, 5 points
– Scott Parsons, Hadley, 120 pounds, doe

On Friday, Sunderland Hatchery recorded additional notable entries, including:

– James Crowley, South Deerfield, 123 pounds, 4 points
– Kevin Wesoloski, South Deerfield, 143 pounds, 8 points

Saturday at Sunderland Hatchery featured even more hunters achieving successful hunts, such as:

– Wade Coleman, Whately, 137 pounds, 8 points
– Stephen Woodman, Claremont, 154 pounds, 10 points
– Joseph Lesenski, Whately, 155 pounds, 10 points

Hunters are reminded that the current regulations include a full ban on big game hunting in both Maine and Massachusetts. This season continues to attract significant participation, with hunters eager to engage with the local wildlife while adhering to state guidelines and safety protocols.

As the season progresses, the anticipation builds for additional successes and reports from the field, reflecting the enduring appeal of deer hunting in Franklin County and beyond.