A long-standing fall tradition for many Islanders, the opening day of the migratory bird hunting season is next Monday, October 4. Thousands of hunters will take to the fields, woods and waters of Prince Edward Island that morning for their first fall hunting expedition.
“For many Island families, waterfowl hunting is a tradition that goes back generations, and getting out for opening day is an important part of that tradition,” said Minister of Environment and Energy Jamie Ballem. “I wish hunters a successful and enjoyable day, and remind them to exercise caution so that we have another safe hunting season in Prince Edward Island.”
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.
In other preparations for the hunting season, the Prince Edward Island Wildlife Federation conducted several firearm safety courses across the province in recent weeks. 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.
The Hunting Summary 2004 is an excellent source of information on hunting regulations, safety tips and hunter ethics and responsibilities. The booklet is now available at the Department of Environment and Energy, Access PEI sites, and licence vendors across the province.
Hunters are reminded to ask permission before entering private property to hunt. For further information on hunter safety, open season dates, bag limits and possession limits, contact the Department of Environment and Energy at (902) 368-4683, or speak to your local conservation officer.
10 Rules of Firearm Safety
1. Treat every gun with the respect due a loaded gun. 2. Watch that muzzle! Be able to control the direction of the muzzle even if you should stumble. 3. Be sure the barrel and action are clear of obstructions and that you have only ammunition of the proper size for the gun you are carrying. 4. Be sure of your target before you pull the trigger; know identifying features of the game you hunt. 5. Unload guns when not in use. Take down or have actions open; guns should be carried in cases to the shooting area. 6.Never point a gun at anything you do not want to shoot; avoid all horseplay with a firearm. 7. Never climb a fence or tree or jump a ditch with a loaded gun; never pull a gun toward you by the muzzle. 8. Never shoot a bullet at a flat, hard surface or water; at target practice be sure your backstop is adequate. 9. Store guns and ammunition separately beyond the reach of children and careless adults. 10. Avoid alcoholic beverages before or during shooting.