Hmmm “In Case You Didn’t Know”
An interesting matter was just brought to my attention by a local Conservation Officer… and I’m sure it’s something that most other people – just like me – are not aware of as well. So, in an effort to increase hunter education and awareness, here’s the details:
Did you know that the Municipal Bylaw which allows archery hunting for deer within specific areas of the City of Thunder Bay [in Wildlife Management Unit (WMU) 13] is superseded by the Provincial Hunting Regulations?
And, as a result, when there is an open firearms season for deer within WMU 13, the requirement for archery hunters to wear hunter orange head and body coverings then applies.
The Municipal Bylaw is silent in that regard, and likely the reason that many hunters are not aware of the blaze orange requirement during the archery hunt in the City.
Ignorance of the law is no excuse and admittedly, like others I imagine, I was not aware of the hunter orange requirement since the Municipal Bylaws do not permit the use or discharge of firearms (other than bows) within the City.
I made an erroneous assumption that, like for other archery-only seasons, I could simply wear camouflage clothing while hunting on my own property within the City… but I was WRONG!
And I have been wrong for 13 years… posting pictures of myself dressed only in camouflage clothing during my Municipal deer hunts… and for that I am both sorry, and embarrassed.
As a proud former Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources Deputy Conservation Officer, my reputation and integrity mean a great deal to me.
This experience has taught me how easily an innocent mistake or misinterpretation can happen, and I am grateful this Conservation Officer chose education over infraction, and used his professional judgement and discretion in this matter.
I am the better for it, and I have chosen to use this article in the best interests of community service, outreach & education to help others become more aware as well.
Unless excluded otherwise, I am certain these same hunter orange requirements would apply in other neighbouring jurisdictions (i.e., Shuniah) that also have specified Municipal hunts for deer and bear.
As the Municipal deer seasons draw near their closing date on December 15th, good luck to those still archery hunting… and don’t forget… Hunter Orange – It’s the Law.
