Why Do We Have Hunting Laws?

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

Game Conservation

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

• Establishing 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.
• Establishing check stations and game tag requirements to enforce the laws.

Safety, Opportunity, and Funding

In addition to ensuring the availability of game for future generations, hunting laws:

• Establish safety guidelines for hunting that protect both hunters and non-hunters.
• Offer equal opportunity for all hunters, whether they use modern firearms, muzzleloaders, or bows.
• Ensure adequate funding for wildlife programs by collecting license fees.

Fair Chase

Hunting laws also define the rules of fair chase. The concept 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 stem 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 violated club rules were expelled.

The rules were later expanded, banning the use of vehicles, airplanes, and radios; electronic calling; or shooting in a fenced enclosure. Many states have made those rules into law.

Know the Law—Ignorance of 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.

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 interacts with the agency.

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