Colder than average temperatures and freezing waterways mean an early end to the waterfowl hunting season in Prince Edward Island, says Agriculture and Forestry Minister George Webster.
“For generations, Island hunters have enjoyed this popular outdoor activity,” said Minister Webster. “The Forests, Fish and Wildlife Division works with hunters and conservation organizations to ensure the long term health of game species populations while allowing Islanders and visitors alike to enjoy quality hunting experiences.”
Effective immediately, provincial hunting licences are no longer valid for shooting or hunting waterfowl within 100 meters of any open body of water. Conservation Officers will be on patrol enforcing licence restrictions and have the power to ticket anyone who is not in compliance.
While Prince Edward Island is famous for Canada goose hunting, quality opportunities also exist throughout the fall season for other waterfowl such as black ducks, teal and a variety of sea ducks. As waterways freeze, waterfowl begin to congregate in large numbers near remaining open water. Overall, Island waterfowl populations are healthy; however, the current conditions make the overcrowded ducks and geese more vulnerable to localized over harvest.
For more information on hunting seasons in Prince Edward Island, please visit www.gov.pe.ca/forestry/summary.