Fall 2019 | A Special Supplement to
Safety and Maintenance Surefire Hunting Strategies Latest Hunting News
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B2 Thursday, August 29, 2019
Hunting Guide 2019
Photo by Gerry Frederick
Hunting Guide 2019
Thursday, August 29, 2019 B3
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Hunting Guide 2019
Prep pointers for the upcoming season
H
unting seasons vary depending on where you live. Regulations designed by local conservation, game, fish, and wildlife departments often dictate the start and end of hunting season. Although the licensing, seasons, limits, and fees for hunting may differ geographically, the preparation that goes into getting ready for hunting season is similar regardless of geography. Many seasoned hunters realize hunting season does not begin on “opening day.” Rather, it can take weeks or months to get ready for a successful season. Considering hunting seasons can be brief, preparation helps hunters make the most of their time spent in the field. * Purchase your license, tag or stamp. Many wild-
life departments require hunters register in advance of the season, and this registration includes securing a hunting license. Because there is a limit to how many
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animals each hunter can hunt, tags for the animals they’re hunting also will be issued. Hunters planning on going out for the season should stay apprised of when licensing and registration begins and ends so they can hunt legally. * Scout areas. The landscape can change from year to year depending on a host of factors, including construction, commercialization and weather. Areas once open to hunting may now be restricted lands. Map out your potential hunting location and be aware of any new landmarks or changes. * Check and replenish gear. Inspect weaponry, field-dressing supplies, clothing, and other supplies for wear and tear. Address any issues that need to be fixed, or replace items as necessary. If a rifle, bow or shotgun hasn’t been fired in a while, take it to a range to verify accuracy and sighting. If you hunt out of a tree stand or blind, make sure it is sturdy and in good condition prior to use.
* Get in shape. Hunting often requires hiking in and out of the great outdoors in various terrain. It’s helpful to increase physical activity leading up to the hunt to prepare your body for the physical demands of hunting. * Organize and pack gear. Ensure your equipment is clean, in working order and packed away in your travel bags. Establish a system of organization and a checklist so you’re certain you will have what you need. Don’t forget to bring along your hunting license and animal tags; otherwise, you may be levied with costly fines. * Always hunt safely. It is quite easy to get swept up in the moment when tracking game. Don’t let overzealousness cloud rational judgement and safety precautions. Otherwise an injury or even death can occur. Hunting season is on the horizon and that means preparing now for the few weeks of sport to come.
Hunting Guide 2019
Thursday, August 29, 2019 B5
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Hunting Guide 2019
The unwritten rules of hunter etiquette in the field By F.J. Hurtak number of years ago I wrote an article on the subject of proper hunter etiquette in the field. I received a strong response from some hunters, mostly about their experiences concerning abuse of the rules and some incidents which they were involved in. Considering this, I think it’s worthy to re-visit at least one part of the editorial, particularly for those hunters who are relatively new to the sport. First though, let’s take a look at the dictionary definition of the word itself. ‘Etiquette” is described as being “acceptable behaviour.” Acceptable I guess, by standards and rules set by society over time. When you apply the word to hunting, “etiquette” spans everything from acting responsibly while in the field, respecting other hunters, firearms safety, paying close attention to current laws and regula-
A
tions, respecting the animals we hunt, and even being considerate of the views of the non-hunting public. I have been fortunate enough to go on some guided deer hunts in both Alberta and Saskatchewan. I always enjoy chatting with the outfitters and getting their opinions on subjects like deer
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management, different types of hunting techniques, and the subject of proper etiquette .For the most part, the outfitters are out in the field every day of the open season, and see a wide array of clients from all over the world, so they can offer some pretty good advice on what they constitute as acceptable behaviour
and what doesn’t. They of course conduct hunts on both public and private lands, and I asked the ones I hunted with for some rules of thumb which all of us can easily apply. To avoid duplication I combined their answers to my questions into a top 10 list. Continued on B7
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Hunting Guide 2019
Thursday, August 29, 2019 B7
Gerry Frederick photo
Unwritten Rules Of Hunting Etiquette
Continued from B6 10: Poaching — Poachers are a classic example of what proper etiquette is NOT. Poachers are thieves and in the end as the saying goes, they do steal from all of us. They are ethically and morally deficient people who may call themselves hunters, but in reality they are just people with a license to carry firearms. They have no respect for wildlife, the land, or other people. As responsible hunters, if we observe illegal activity taking place, it’s our duty to call authorities as soon as possible. That is proper hunting etiquette. 9: If you are out hunting and you come across another hunter who is looking at an animal he or she may want to shoot, proper etiquette demands you back off. The same situation applies if someone is bugling a bull elk, calling a wild turkey, or rattling for
whitetails when you arrive at the scene. 8: Never take a marginal shot at an animal. Take the first good shot you are comfortable with, and always keep in mind that whoever actually kills the animal and puts it on the ground permanently, is entitled to claim the animal. There is some grey area here of course in some circumstances, so wise discretion on your part and others may have to come into play. 7: If you find someone else’s tree stand or blind set up in the woods, proper etiquette dictates that you don’t use it under any circumstances unless you have permission from the the person who actually set it up. Don’t set up your own blinds or tree stands in very close proximity. It’s a big country and everyone deserves some space and the right to a quality hunt. 6: Respect ALL access closures. They are in place for good reason.
“No Trespassing and No Hunting” signs as well. 5: Respect the land you hunt on whether it be private or public. The
rule of thumb is to leave everything exactly as you found it. Continued on B8
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Hunting Guide 2019
Unwritten Rules Of Hunting Etiquette Continued from B7 4: Be considerate of non-hunters who may not understand your passion for the sport. The reality is that those people out number us hunters by 10 to 1, and they have a large voice with governments of the day. It’s not proper etiquette for example to strap the head of your animal to the front bumper and drive through the middle of town to display your kill. 3: Handle your weapon of choice in the field in a safe responsible fashion at all times. 2: Treat other hunters in the woods in a courteous respectful manner-just like you would want to be treated. 1: The unwritten rule
is that the first party on site has first right to that spot. Each situation is different depending on terrain and size of the hunting location so, if you get the opportunity to talk with the other party, ask them where they will be hunting… the ridge, the North draw, the South closure etc. If the area is large enough, it’s quite possible both parties can hunt the area and not compromise each other’s hunt. If not, leave and find another place to go. You will get your chance in that particular spot on another day. Some of this list is pretty obvious, some perhaps not so much.
But before I conclude, I’d like to add further comment about using someone else’s tree stands and blinds. It goes without saying that whoever put them in place went through some trouble in both setting them up and choosing their stand locations. As I mentioned, the rules of proper etiquette dictate that you don’t use them unless you have permission to do just that. However, there is another important reason to consider and it involves safety, possibly your own. One never knows who you are going to run into out in the field and how they are going to react if you are in their stand when
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they get there or what state of mind they may be in.There are lethal weapons involved ,and regretfully, the sport of hunting is not exempt from the lunatic fringe element that seems to permeate all levels of society in some way these days. It is simply not wise to purposely put yourself into what could be a very volatile situation. F.J. Hurtak is the author of the books, “Elk Hunting in the Kootenays” and “Hunting the Antlered Big Game of the Kootenays”. All profits from the books have been donated to land for wildlife and enhancing habitat.
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Hunting Guide 2019
Thursday, August 29, 2019 B9
East Kootenay Big Game Club 64th ANNUAL AWARDS BANQUEt & WILDLIFE FUNDRAISER April 6th, 2019 at the Cranbrook Curling Club RIFLE: ADULT CATEGORY Typical Whitetail Deer 1st .... Justin Faiers, Cranbrook scoring: 135 7/8 2nd ... Morgan Dilts, Koocanusa scoring: 135 2/8 Typical Mule Deer 1st .... Brady Annett, Cranbrook scoring: 159 3/8 Typical Elk 1st .... Chad Gentile, Sparwood scoring: 296 7/8 Bighorn Sheep 1st .... Darrell Hurley, Fernie Boone & Crockett and B.C. Record Book scoring: 187 2/8 2nd ... Shawn MacDonald, Cranbrook Boone & Crockett and B.C. Book scoring: 183 3/8 Mountain Goat 1st .... Aaron Salanski, Cranbrook B.C. Record Book scoring: 49 4/8 2nd ... Jamie Bloor, Cranbrook scoring: 46 4/8 3rd.... Kris Chase, Invermere scoring: 45 2/8 4th.... Ethan Broadhead, Cranbrook scoring: 45 2/8 Black Bear 1st .... Cheryl Petovello, Elko scoring: 18 10/16 2nd ... Ryan Horvath, Cranbrook scoring: 18 9/16 3rd.... Jen Farrow, Cranbrook scoring: 18 8/16 Wolf 1st .... Ethan Broadhead, Cranbrook B.C. Record Book scoring: 17 2/16 2nd ... Ron Hrisook, Cranbrook B.C. Record Book scoring: 16 10/16 3rd.... Ron Hrisook, Cranbrook B.C. Record Book scoring: 16 7/16 4th.... Ryan Gerein, Cranbrook B.C. Record Book scoring: 16 1/16
OUT OF REGION: ADULT
Black Bear
Stone Sheep
Black Bear
Mountain Caribou
1st .... Bryce Pinchak, Sparwood B.C. Record Book scoring: 20 11/16 2nd ... Brady Annett, Cranbrook B.C. and Boone & Crockett Record Book scoring: 173 1/8 3rd.... Shawn MacDonald Cranbrook B.C. Record Book scoring: 20 6/16 4th.... Ryan Pachara, Cranbrook B.C. Record Book scoring: 20 0/16 5th.... Ryley Hunter, Cranbrook B.C. Record Book scoring: 387 4/8
HONOURABLE MENTION OUT OF REGION Black Bear
Bryce Pinchak, Sparwood B.C. Record Book scoring: 19 6/16 Shawn MacDonald, Cranbrook B.C. Record Book scoring: 19 3/16
OUT OF PROVINCE: ADULT Non Typical Whitetail Deer 1st .... Ryan Clarricoates, Cranbrook scoring: 190 3/8 2nd .. Kip Howard, Fernie scoring: 170 3/8 Typical Mule Deer 3rd.... Jason Newcombe, Cranbrook scoring: 162 0/8
JUNIOR CATEGORY Typical Whitetail Deer
Typical Mule Deer Typical Elk Mountain Goat
Black Bear Cougar
1st ... Isabella Hill, Moyie scoring: 116 1/8 2nd ... Clayton Martin, Invermere scoring: 115 2/8 1st ... Ty Kalbeck, Cranbrook scoring: 124 0/8 1st ... Kurtis Oakley, Cranbrook scoring: 283 4/8 1st ... Josh Faiers, Cranbrook scoring: 47 0/8 2nd .. Bryder Quaife, Cranbrook scoring: 42 2/8 1st ... Ethan Siemens, Cranbrook scoring: 17 7/16 1st ... Mackenzie Bowen, Sparwood scoring: 14 3/16
Had it not been for a group of local sportsmen in 1955 there would be no East Kootenay Big Game Club. These sportsmen felt the need to recognize and record the tremendous quality of big game taken each year in the East Kootenay as well as other regions in British Columbia and Canada. This past April the Club held it's 64th annual awards banquet and wildlife fund-raiser with the theme " hunters giving back to wildlife"
To date we have donated over $155,000 for wildlife and vital land acquisitions. Thanks to our sponsors and the hunting fraternity for their continued support
OUT OF REGION: JUNIOR
California Bighorn Sheep 1st..... Cameron Grywacheski, Sparwood B.C. Record Book scoring: 154 2/8
ADULT CATEGORY ARCHERY
Typical Whitetail Deer 1st .... Chris Romeo, Cranbrook Pope & Young Record Book scoring: 133 1/8 2nd .. Dallas Walkey Cranbrook Pope & Young Record Book scoring: 131 1/8 3rd.... Ryan Farrow, Cranbrook scoring: 107 2/8 Bighorn Sheep Hawk Martin, Invermere Pope & Young Record Book scoring: 161 0/8 Mountain Goat Justin Benson, Cranbrook Pope & Young Record Book scoring: 44 6/8
GRAND AGGREGATE WINNER
Wolf
Ethan Broadhead scoring: 17 2/16
ARCHERY GRAND AGGREGATE WINNER
Bighorn Sheep
Hawk Martin
scoring: 161 0/8
OUT OF REGION GRAND AGGREGATE WINNER Black Bear
Bryce Pinchak scoring: 20 11/16
OUT OF PROVINCE GRAND AGGREGATE WINNER
Non Typical Whitetail Deer
Ryan Clarricoates scoring: 190 3/8
JUNIOR GRAND AGGREGATE WINNER Mountain Goat
Josh Faiers scoring: 47 0/8
East Kootenay Big Game Club The Club sells annual memberships for $10 or life memberships for $100.
Please contact the following for more information Wade Oakley,
Club President 489-3936
Kyle Southgate,
Vice President 421-3645
Frank Cross Secretary/Treasurer Record Books and Life Memberships 489-3155 Wade Oakley for Regular Memberships 489-3936
The East Kootenay Big Game Club wishes its sportsmen a great 2019 hunting season!
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Hunting Guide 2019
A good and precise shot is the key to a successful hunting season so do not neglect this aspect!
T
Ammunition for big game
he proper ammunition when hunting big game is an
element often neglected by hunters. Most of them will spend a lot of
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time investigating their hunting grounds, preparing their blinds but will spend little time, if any, taking into account their best choice of a rifle and its ammunition. The reality is that if a prey suddenly appears in front of them, it is the precision of the actual shot that will bring about the desired result. You only need to know a few things about choosing ammunition for big game before being able to manage any situation. First, choose the proper weight for your shot pellets. Pellets that weight more than 180 grains are appropriate for moose whereas 150 grains are recommended for deer. You then need to try out different kinds of ammunition for your specific rifle. These trials will help you find the bullets or shots with the greatest precision for your particular type of rifle. This
way, you will optimize your chances when you need to shoot down game. Experts recommend that all hunters do these trails and shoot at least 200 yards from the target. The shooter should pull the trigger at least three times in rapid succession. If the shots are grouped together on the target, then the shot is accurate. They do not have to be at the centre of the target, but need to be close together. If this is the case, the gun will only require minute adjustments for more precision. If the shooter gets three shots scattered on the target, he will need more time to practice his sportsmanship for better results. Shooting with precision and with the right ammunition are key elements for a successful hunting season so make sure it is an essential part of your preparations.
Hunting Guide 2019
Thursday, August 29, 2019 B11
Gerry Frederick photo
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Hunting Guide 2019
Safety Is At Our Core There are No Access, No Hunting and No Shooting safety boundaries clearly signed around all Teck operations and exploration sites in the Elk Valley. For your safety and ours, please do not hunt or travel in the active mining or exploration areas. Teck’s Elk Valley boundary maps are available at your local hunting or ATV Club and at the mine gatehouses. To view the maps online, visit: www.teck.com/coalmaps
Hunting Guide 2019
Thursday, August 29, 2019 B13
Trophy Mule Deer Hunting Tips A
By F.J. Hurtak s I related to in my second hunting publication, “Hunting the Antlered Big Game of the Kootenays”, large mule deer bucks are usually found in the steepest, wildest, most remote terrain available. There are always exceptions of course, but in order to harvest one of these old mossy horns, a hunter must be prepared mentally and physically for the job at hand. It’s true that every year, some really good bucks are taken at relatively low elevations, especially late in the season, when high country snow levels force them down. I firmly believe, however, that these big low country bucks are in the minority, and as we are all aware, many of them live within City limits in our region, and rightfully so, are off limits to hunters. In order to be consistently successful at harvesting a decent mature mule deer buck, a hunter usually has to put in a lot of time and effort, and also has to be willing to change some old habits, like today’s modern mule deer has. Yes, mule deer have adopted techniques that used to be reserved strictly for their whitetail counterparts. They will sometimes sneak around hunters with the stealth of a cougar, especially if a group of hunters are “driving the draw”. Other times they will remain motionless when hunters pass close by, and at other times they will spook the minute they hear an out of place sound, or smell an out of
Photo by Larry Tooze
place odour. Big bucks have learned to adapt, and for the species that’s a good thing as mule deer numbers are not anywhere near close to what they used to be 20-30 years ago.That is a widely acknowledged fact, so nowadays hunters have to do a little more thinking, a bit more planning, and even a whole lot more sitting, than what we were accustomed to doing in the good old days. I’ve chatted with many veteran mule deer hunters including guides and outfitters, and combined their advice with my own experiences to put together a list of tips to increase your odds, which may help you score on the monster mulie you’ve been dreaming about. Continued on A14
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B14 Thursday, August 29, 2019
Hunting Guide 2019
Trophy Mule Deer Hunting Tips
Continued from B13 There are some obvious tips that all experienced mule deer fanatics will know, but there are more subtle ones gleaned from trial and error hunts that all hunters may not be aware of. • Really big bucks do not generally bed right on open ridge-lines look for them just below, in areas where they are sometimes difficult to spot. • Don’t always expect to see the whole deer-look for things that may be slightly out of sync with the landscape you are surveying. • Morning deer activity is best after a moonless night. • The first few minutes of dawn and dusk are
prime times for spotting mature bucks. One should already be in position to attempt a stalk. That may mean walking in the dark for an hour or two, or
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• Periods of heavy snow or rain will inevitably send deer to cover. If this is the only time you have reserved for hunting, then go in after them employing careful stalking techniques, unless crusty snow conditions or extremely dry terrain won’t allow it. Then you are still far better off to play the waiting game. Every time a big buck is spooked by hunters it makes him that much more difficult to harvest. • Be comfortable with Photo by Larry Tooze shooting longer distances at times and know your three, to get to areas you own comfort zone. Permay have spotted deer on sonally, I can shoot reaprevious hunts. sonably accurate groups • Trophy bucks are most at up to 300 yards (with a active of course, during stable rest)-others I know the rutting season which are great shots at 350 or commences in late Octo- better. The bottom line ber/early November. is that comfort zones are • After achieving your best determined on the desired elevation, your practice range, not in the eyes then become much field. better assets than your • Looking for a mature legs. mule deer buck to harvest • Hunting from uphill and settling for nothing looking down, with the less, means that a hunter wind in your face offers must be prepared to pass more chance of sucup smaller legal bucks, cess than the opposite in order to accomplish scenario, because deer the objective. One has least expect danger from to be comfortable with above. Obviously, due to that scenario as well, and terrain, wind condition, know that you may end and time constraints, it’s the season without filling not always possible to your tag. That is the price hunt from the “uphill” you must be willing to pay side, but you can use the much of the time. strategy to your advanBest of luck out there tage when the situation this season. dictates it. • Use extreme caution F.J. Hurtak is the author when exiting cover, esof the books, “Elk Hunting pecially in areas where in the Kootenays”, and there is much sign-failure “Hunting the Antlered Big to glass nearby cover or Game of the Kootenays”, openings could cost you and is a die-hard big mule the trophy of a lifetime. deer buck hunter.
Hunting Guide 2019
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Hunting Guide 2019
BC implements mandatory Chronic Wasting Disease sampling program Corey Bullock he Province of British Columbia announced in a recent news release that they are implementing a mandatory sampling program that requires hunters to submit the heads from deer harvested in specific areas of the Kootenays, after Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks discovered five animals with Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) 60km south of the B.C. border. Starting September 1, 2019 and ending December 20, 2019, hunters
T
will be required to submit the heads of mule deer and white-tailed deer harvested in specific wildlife management units along the southern BC border in the Kootenay Region. Deer heads will need to be submitted if harvested in wildlife management units 4-1, 4-2, 4-3, 4-4, 4-5, 4-6, and 4-7 in the East Kootenay Region. Region 4 encompasses all of the Kootenays, from the Alberta border, west to Castlegar and Revelstoke, and North to Mica Creek. Units
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4-1 through 4-7 are the southern most areas, from the Alberta border to east of Trail. In the news release, the Province says it has been monitoring for disease since 2002, targeting the Peace and East Kootenay regions as high-risk areas for disease entry due to its presence in Alberta and Montana. No infected animals have been found in B.C. so far, however, more sampling is needed to inform any additional response. They are also asking hunters outside of units 4-1 through 4-7 to submit to the sampling program. “The provincial Wildlife Health Program is calling on all hunters, especially those in the Peace and East Kootenay regions, to bring deer, moose and elk heads to drop-off locations for testing,” said the news release. Since 2002, over 3900 deer, elk and moose have been tested. According to a spokes-
person from the B.C. Ministry of Forests, the B.C. CWD program, so far, has been based on voluntary submission of tissue samples for testing and includes partnerships and outreach with B.C. First Nations, stakeholders, local businesses and other interested groups. Surveillance has focused in areas adjacent to jurisdictions that have reported CWD. “Before June 2019, animals susceptible to chronic wasting disease (those in the deer family), including deer, elk, moose and caribou, were considered at a low risk to develop CWD in part because of B.C.’s proactive management. The discovery of CWD near the B.C.-Montana border has caused the province to ramp up it efforts to increase surveillance and outreach within the region,” the spokesperson explained in an email. Continued on B17
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Hunting Guide 2019
Thursday, August 29, 2019 B17
New CWD sampling program Continued from B16 According to an article in the Canadian Press, Health Canada notes there’s no evidence that CWD infects humans, but recommends as a preventative measure that animals known to be infected with CWD should not be consumed, and that hunters should take precautions when handling carcasses of deer, elk and moose. Canadian Press also reported that the disease is caused by an abnormal protein called a prion. These prions are transmitted through infected saliva, urine, feces, even plants and soil. Signs of infection in deer include weight loss, poor coordination, stumbling and trembling. Drop off locations for samples include any B.C. Wildlife or Conservation Officer service office (during business hours) as well as several locations in the Peace and Kootenay regions including: Gwinner’s Country Butcher, Kimberley Rick’s Fine Meats, Cranbrook Wes’s Country Meats,
Starting September 1 and ending December 20, 2019, hunters will be required to submit the heads of mule deer and white-tailed deer harvested in specific wildlife management units along the southern BC border in the Kootenay Region. (Mule Deer photo by Gery Frederick)
Fernie North Peace Rod and Gun Club, Fort St John Peace Taxidermy, Hwy 29 Richard’s Meat, Pouce Coupe Anyone encountering an animal exhibiting the symptoms of Chronic Wasting Disease (thin, drooling, poor coordination, stumbling) should report it to the provincial Wildlife Health Program at 250-751-3219 or the Report all Poachers and Polluters hotline at 1-877-952-7277.
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Hunting Guide 2019
Ministry Continuing work on Wildlife Management and Habitat Conservation Initiative for the Province
By F.J. Hurtak ara Szkorupa, our former senior wildlife biologist for Kootenay Boundary, started a new position with the Wildlife and Habitat Branch in early January of 2018.The position focused on advancing the Ministry’s mandate to improve Wildlife management and habitat conservation in B.C. Looking at a new funding model was also an important component moving forward. So I contacted Tara recently to find out where the Ministry was at on this issue at this juncture in time. tiative and funding model for the province is? Q: Can you provide me with an update on where A: We are currently the management plan ini- working on a draft strat-
T
Fernie rod & Gun Club
would like to remind all hunters to...
PRACTICE FIREARM SAFETY Please note that the Fernie Rifle Range is closed to the general public. For more information or to obtain a membership, please go to www.ferniergc.com or contact Kevin Marasco at president@ferniergc.com • Fernie Meat Market • Gear Hub in Fernie • Elk Valley Precision in Sparwood Trap Shooting now available at the FRGC Range Please check webite for days & times
www.ferniergc.com
ATTENTION: FRGC MEMBERS Trophies for the 1st Archery Elk & 1st Rifle Elk &
YouTh Trophies for
1st Bull Elk • 1st Mule Deer Buck • 1st Whitetail Buck located & claimed at
Fernie Meat Market
Photo by Larry Tooze
egy to Improve Wildlife Management and Habitat Conservation, and anticipate this will be ready for public review in late fall 2019. This strategy is based on ideas raised by Indigenous peoples, stakeholders and Provincial government staff from around the Province. We held workshops, webinars and on-line engagement sessions over the past year to learn about the issues that British Columbians are most concerned about, and how best to address these issues. The response has been overwhelming! Stakeholders came up with an extensive list of potential policy options that focused on clear objective-setting for wildlife populations, better tools for habitat conservation, funding models to increase resources, greater stakeholder involvement, and data and knowledge to improve decision-making. The Province is currently analyzing these
policy options. ding funding, the government has committed an additional $24 million to improve wildlife management and conservation over 4 years, ramping up to $10 million per year in 2020/21 and 2021/22. Although a significant uplift, we recognize this may not meet expectations for substantial improvements to management, and are therefore exploring other funding models, funding sources and creative financing ideas that could be implemented in BC. Anyone interested in this initiative can learn more about work completed to date, and opportunities for future engagement at engage.gov. bc.ca/wildlifeandhabitat/. Tara Szkorupa, MSc, RPBio Wildlife and Habitat Branch, Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations & Rural Development
Hunting Guide 2019
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Maintenance of your hunting rifle
Y
ou might want to hunt big game; you might want to hunt small game. No matter what your choice, you must be able to rely on your firearm. Unfortunately, many hunters do not spend the necessary time to insure that their riffle is up to the task at hand or might not even know how to do it. The end result can often be painfully obvious during their next hunting outing. Good maintenance of your rifle starts at the end of each hunting day. First, clean the inside of the firearm and barrel with a clean dry cloth to remove dirt and humidity. You can then apply a thin layer of oil with a rag to the trigger, barrel and firing mechanism to help protect them. This thin layer of protection will reduce the risk of rust and will insure proper functioning of your firearm at crucial moments. The next step is to clean and dry the outside of your rifle, again with a dry cloth. Apply a thin layer of oil to all metal parts. For wooden or synthetic parts, there is very little to do. Just remember to use a lubricant or oil designed especially for firearms. When possible, clean the firing mechanism. It should
Above: Some rifles and firearms have complex mechanisms that should only be handled by an expert. (Photo CC)
be noted that many rifles have complex and specialized mechanisms requiring expert attention. You should have a specialist attend to that undertaking since you may not want to compromise the firing ability of your firearm. Hunting rifles are expensive and often capricious. It is important to see to their good maintenance and they will be of service for years to come.
Good luck in the field this fall Enjoy our beautiful province and be safe out there Proudly serving the Constituents of Columbia River-Revelstoke
Doug Clovechok, MLA Columbia River-Revelstoke www.oktire.com
362 Wallinger Ave., Kimberley, BC (250) 432-2300 • Doug.Clovechok.MLA@leg.bc.ca
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Hunting Guide 2019
The best rifle calibre for big game
W
hen asked what is the best rifle calibre for a hunting rifle, hunters will
indicate a large variety of options and personal taste. Some believe that calibre has little impor-
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tance while others maintain that the best is low calibre and others believe only in magnum rifles. Here is a brief description of different calibres: • Rifles with 308 or 3030 calibre are less powerful rifles. They allow hitting the target at less than 200 yards but with a good impact. Their main advantage is their weight as they weigh less than more powerful rifles. • Magnum rifles are represented by the popular 7mm magnum, the 300 magnum and the 300 ultra mag sa. They allow hitting the target at a distance of 500 yards and their impact is formidable. Their powerful performance may intimidate some hunters. • Rifles with 3006 calibre are the most popular. They allow the hunter to shoot at distances of 300 yards and still retain a good impact. It is a good middle-of-the-road rifle, between the low calibre
rifle and the powerful magnum. Your choice of calibre will depend on the distance between yourself and the game you are hunting. Remember that the closer you are to your target, the better the chance of hitting it. You need also to decide what impact will be needed to kill quickly your prey. Finally, take into consideration the weight of the rifle you will need to lug around as well as other characteristics such as the trigger, etc. No matter what you choose, the most important consideration will be the ease of operation and utilisation. Your chances of snagging THE big one are often low so put all the chances on your side! Pictured above: The chosen calibre is important insofar as the hunter is comfortable handling his preferred firearm.
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Thursday, August 29, 2019 B21
The most important factor in choosing a telescopic sight for your hunting rifle is visibility. It will also determine its price.
How to buy a telescopic sight Every year, hunters need to buy new telescopic sights for their hunting rifle. Before making your choice, make sure you well understand the principles guiding your selection. If we were to ask hunters, “What is the most important characteristic that will guide you in your choice of a sight?” many would answer the power or magnification. But, believe it or not, it is not the most important criteria. The most important factor for a telescopic sight for hunting rifles is visibility. This will also determine its price. Most hunters are out
there hunting mostly at dawn or dusk, when visibility is low. You need to ask yourself: “Will my telescopic sight allow sufficient light to let me see the game?” Specialists agree that telescopic sights that will allow enough light to go through will end up costing more than $300. On the other hand, a hunter bent on hunting only during daytime will need to spend as little as $100 to get a good telescopic sight. Magnification is also an important consideration when purchasing a telescopic sight. The most important factor will be
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the intended distance between the hunter and its prey. Granted that this is often difficult to evaluate in the best of circumstances, most hunters have sights with magnifi-
cation way beyond their needs. The key to a successful purchase is good evaluation of all your needs to help optimize your hunting season.
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Hunting Guide 2019
Mechanical decoys for wild birds
W
ild bird hunting enthusiasts are now turning to animated or mechanical decoys. Developed in the United States in the past years, it has steadily gained in popularity amongst huntsmen. The positive result on wild bird hunting has been quite remarkable. The decoy is made up of a three-dimensional reproduction of a duck in flight and is usually fixed to a standing post. It appears as if the bird is about to land so offers a very realistic reproduction. Instead of fixed and stationary wings, a motor simply rotates them. Some of you may not agree with it being realistic but the
Movement attracts wild birds.
effect on real ducks and other wild birds is quite phenomenal. Movements usually at-
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tract wild birds and most huntsmen would agree with this. This type of decoy offers two distinct advantages: first, it allows hunters the capacity to attract birds from distances far away since the movement is easily distinguished due to the colours of the wings, with one side white and the other black. Secondly, it is a reassuring decoy for the game, as it gets closer. Wild birds will land with more assurance and trust, which will enable the hunter to
shoot with more precision. If you wish to purchase a standard mechanical decoy, the average price is around $110. Of course, more specialized and detailed models will be more expensive, with options such as remote control, powerful batteries, etc. If you like to hunt wild birds and have not yet seen a mechanical decoy in action, I suggest you get all the relevant information before the start of the new hunting season.
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Hunting Guide 2019
Thursday, August 29, 2019 B23
Managed-recoil calibres for hunting
R
ecently, we have seen the emergence of a new type of ammunition for big-game hunting. These low- or managed-recoil bullets reduce the kick felt by shooters when discharging their firearm. In fact, this kick is the cause of precision problems for many hunters, experienced or not. Even though they will never
admit it, the main problem is that shooters are scared by the sound and the kick when firing their weapon, and so, they have a tendency to move when they shoot. This changes the trajectory of the projectile and reduces precision. As you know, moving the weapon by just a few millimetres can considerably change the bullet’s point of impact
100 metres away. To try to address this problem, some companies like Remington, Federal, and others, are marketing this new low- or managed-recoil ammunition. The main advantage is the 50% reduction in kick, a significant difference. This type of ammunition is very well-suited for new hunters, those having problems with
precision, and those with weaker frames. However, low-recoil ammunition does have limitations. To guarantee good penetration without fragmentation, the manufacturers recommend using them for distances not exceeding 200 yards. Low-recoil ammunition is quite appropriate for deer hunting.
Choose the best location for your deer blind
T
he biggest challenge in deer hunting is to correctly accomplish everything in a very short time. You must master as many elements as possible in order to increase your chances of success. In addition to accurate shooting, camouflage, deer calls, etc., you should also pay special attention to the area where you choose to install your deer blind. Even if the site offers ample space, comfort, perfect camouflage, and more, if there are no recent deer tracks in the area, chances are the hunter will return empty-handed. Therefore, it is very important that you
study the area carefully before setting up a deer blind. The first thing to consider is the movement of deer on the territory. As much as possible, try to place yourself somewhere along existing deer trails. The objective is to position yourself near their resting or feeding areas, or somewhere in between. If you can find deer trails and identify these areas, you will come out a winner. The second thing to consider is the hunt itself. You must look at the other factors that can increase your chances of success: for example, it is important that the
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position of your blind provides a good angle to shoot from at the right time. Also, the blind must be high enough to prevent the wind from carrying your scent and scaring the animals be-
fore they get within your shooting range. Hunters should consider these criteria and others, such as safety, when selecting the location for their blind.
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Hunting Guide 2019
Fighting Fighting Chronic Chronic Wasting Wasting Disease Disease East East Kootenay Kootenay Wildlife Wildlife Association Association & & Affiliated Clubs Affiliated Clubs
Fernie Fernie Rod Rod and and Gun Gun Club Club .......... .......... 250-423-1546 250 423 1546 President: Kevin Marasco President: Kevin Marasco Lake Windermere District Lake Windermere District Rod and Gun Club..................... 250-342-9482 Rod and Gun Club ......................250 342 9482 President: Rick Hoar President: Rick Hoar Sparwood Fish and Wildlife Sparwood Fish and Wildlife Association............................... 250-433-7249 Association ................................250 433 7249 President: Matt Huryn President: Matt Huryn Elkford Rod and Gun Club......... 250-433-7517 President: Forsyth Elkford RodDylan and Gun Club ..........250 946 5320 President: M.L. Club...... Elvin 250-349-5478 Canal FlatsJoshua Wilderness President: Dave White Canal Flats Wilderness Club .......250 349 5478 Golden District and President: DaveRod White Gun Club .................................... 250-344-129 Golden District Rod and President: Russell Wagner Gun Club ................................(250) 344-3245 EK Big Game Club President: Ron Nemecek Wade Oakley ............................ 250-919-3387
Be Be part part of of the the solution solution
EKWA Affiliated Clubs East Kootenay Hunters Association (Cranbrook)
THANK YOU! Through your support we can restore habitat, inspire youth and enhance our knowledge about BC’s wildlife species. Your contributions support: • The Wetlands Education Program, which restored 45.75 hectares of Wetlands throughout BC. • Our youth programs, which inspires youth in communities across BC. • Initiatives like the Southern Interior Mule Deer project. • And the Chronic Wasting Disease Prevention Plan. Visit us at www.bcwf.bc.ca to learn more about the other programs we offer and our current initiatives.
JOIN . DONATE . VOLUNTEER
FOR MORE INFORMATION: BC Wildlife Health Program
cait.nelson@gov.bc.ca http://www.gov.bc.ce/chronicwastingdisease.ca