Pa. House adopts Haddock resolution recognizing Elk Hunt Day
Rep. Jim Haddock December 22, 2025 | 10:58 AM
HARRISBURG, Dec. 22 – Saturday, Dec. 27, marks the opening day of the 2025 late elk hunting season. State Rep. Jim Haddock authored a resolution, adopted by the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, officially recognizing the day as Elk Hunt Day.
“Elk hunting in Pennsylvania is a cornerstone of our state’s cherished hunting traditions. Each year, tens of thousands of hunters apply for the chance to hunt elk, yet fewer than 200 are selected,” said Haddock, a member of the House Game and Fisheries Committee.
“Many hunters view this as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, often applying for several years without being chosen. The significance of this experience is magnified by the history of elk in Pennsylvania, as extensive efforts were required to reintroduce elk and establish suitable habitats to sustain this celebrated tradition,” he added.
Haddock, D-Luzerne/Lackawanna, noted that “Pennsylvania Elk Hunt Day” commemorates both the first regulated elk hunt in the state over a century ago and the 25th anniversary of the reinstatement of elk hunting.
“Eastern elk are among the most majestic species in Pennsylvania, and our hunters play an essential role in our state’s culture. It’s fitting that my colleagues adopted H.R. 356 to highlight the importance of our elk population, educate the public about the storied history of elk restoration, and showcase the efforts of the Pennsylvania Game Commission in supporting this iconic species,” Haddock said.