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N.D. (AP) – Two-thirds of North Dakota deer hunters had success in bagging an animal last season.

The state Game and Fish Department made 49,000 deer gun licenses available last year. Officials say 44,140 deer hunters took to the field, taking about 29,300 deer.

Hunter success for white-tailed bucks was 72 percent and for white-tailed does 60 percent.

Mule deer buck success was 89 percent, with mule deer doe success at 78 percent.

A record 26,755 archery licenses were issued last year. The overall success rate was 43 percent.

The department is in the process of determining license recommendations for this year’s season. The proclamation will be sent to the governor’s office for approval later this month.