Chapter 2: Be a Responsible and Ethical Hunter
Why Do We Have Hunting Laws?

During the 19th century, many game animals were nearly hunted into extinction. The thundering herds of buffalo that once roamed the plains were reduced to about 800 animals. The beaver was almost wiped out. Once plentiful elk, deer, and pronghorn had been reduced to a fraction of their original numbers.

Resource Conservation

To conserve wildlife for future generations to enjoy, wildlife management laws were passed. These laws allow game to flourish by:

• Setting hunting seasons that limit harvesting and avoid nesting and mating seasons.
• Limiting hunting methods and equipment.
• Setting "bag" limits on the number of animals that can be taken.
• Setting up check stations and game tag requirements to enforce laws.
• Creating enough funding for wildlife programs by collecting license fees.

Public Safety

In addition to making sure game is available for future generations, hunting laws create safety guidelines for hunting that protect both hunters and non-hunters.

Equal Opportunity

Hunting laws offer equal opportunity for all hunters, whether they use modern firearms, muzzleloaders, or bows.

Fair Chase

• Hunting laws also define the rules of fair chase. The idea began in the Middle Ages when hunters increased the challenge of sport hunting by setting rules that limited how they took game.
• More recently, fair chase rules were developed to lessen public criticism of hunters. One of the earliest models was the "Fair Chase Principle" established in the late 1800s by the Boone and Crockett Club, which was founded by Theodore Roosevelt. Those who broke club rules were removed.
• The rules were later expanded, banning the use of vehicles, airplanes, radios, electronic calling, or shooting in a fenced-in area. Many states have made those rules into law.

Remember ...
A large amount of funding for wildlife management comes from the purchase of licenses, which annually raises millions of dollars.

How Hunting Laws Are Passed

In most states, a wildlife management agency sets hunting regulations. These agencies will have regular meetings where the public can voice their concerns and make suggestions. Hunters wishing to propose changes to the regulations should participate in these meetings or join a hunting organization that meets with the agency.

Know the Law

Not knowing hunting laws is not a valid excuse for violating them. It is the hunter's responsibility to review state game laws before the hunting season.