Successful deer hunting season benefits both conservation and families Deer harvests in 2022 set a new record and are aligned with deer management goals for Massachusetts. Extra venison was donated to families in need. MassWildlife officials are announcing preliminary figures for the 2022 deer hunting season. The 2022 season set a new annual record of 15,853 harvested deer, which is well within the expected range permitted under strict regulations set by MassWildlife.