A long-standing fall tradition for many Islanders, the opening day of the migratory bird hunting season, is next Monday, October 2. Thousands of hunters will take to the fields, woods and waters of Prince Edward Island that morning for their first fall hunting expedition.
“Whether for the pleasure of getting outdoors and enjoying the sport or sharing an adventure with others, this is the time of year enjoyed by Island residents and non-residents alike,” says Minister of Environment, Energy and Forestry Jamie Ballem. “I wish all hunters a successful and enjoyable day.”
Many hunting enthusiasts have been preparing for the upcoming season for weeks. Earlier this month, more than 100 Islanders between the ages of 12 and 17 participated in the Youth Waterfowl Hunting Workshop and a Waterfowler Heritage Day in which beginning hunters had the chance to practise their skills under the watchful eye of a veteran hunter. As well, about 35 Islanders participated in a Novice Upland Game Workshop. Common upland game species in PEI include the snowshoe hare, ruffed grouse, woodcock and Hungarian partridge.
In other preparations for the hunting season, the Prince Edward Island Wildlife Federation conducted several firearm safety courses across the province. Over the years, firearms safety training has contributed to a significant decrease in hunting accidents and an increased understanding of the responsibilities a hunter accepts when purchasing a hunting licence.
To help ensure another safe hunting season, hunters are urged to respect the following three hunting rules:
1. Treat every firearm as if it were loaded. Always control the muzzle, keeping the firearm pointed in a safe direction, and keep your finger off the trigger unless you intend to discharge the firearm.
2. Be sure of your target and beyond. Positively identify your target; ensure that it is lawful and safe to shoot it. You must also consider safety far beyond your target as the projectile(s) travel long distances. Also, remember that shooting a rifle at a hard flat surface or water is unsafe. Bullets will ricochet and may cause unknown damage or serious injury.
3. Safely store firearms when not in use. Firearms must always be stored unloaded. Ammunition should be stored separately from firearms. A locking device should be used to ensure the firearm cannot be fired while it is stored. Ensure that you comply with all storage and transportation of firearms laws that apply.
The Hunting Summary 2006 is an excellent source of information on hunting regulations, season dates and bag limits, licences and fees, as well as hunter safety tips, ethics and responsibilities. To obtain a copy, contact the Department of Environment, Energy and Forestry at (902) 368-4683; speak to your local conservation officer; visit Access PEI sites or licence vendors across the province; or go online at www.gov.pe.ca/go/hunting.