FRANKLIN—The annual three-day deer gun season in the City of Franklin opens next week.
Hunters, using shotguns only, can bag a doe or buck on Tuesday, Dec. 14, through Thursday, Dec. 16, within city limits south of Armory Drive and Second Avenue. That’s the area between Armory Drive and Route 58, including the woods behind Dorchester and off South Street, said City Animal Control Officer Roy Richards.
People are not allowed to shoot guns within city limits, except for this hunt. That’s why the three-day season was formed, Richards said.
“It’s given some hunt clubs that hunt the land (the opportunity to do so),” he said.
The hunt is also done for population control.
Hunters may only hunt two of the three days. They are on an honor system to do so.
Richards said he has seen as many as 15 deer taken during the three days, including “a few nice bucks that people have wall mounted.”
Hunters must have permission from landowners to hunt within the designated area.
“That’s something the city cannot give,” Richards said.
Deer hunting within city limits is also allowed during the urban archery season, which begins in September and goes into October, he said.
Anyone with questions can call Richards at 562-8605.