Stay safe and legal while bow hunting on public property
MADISON -- Many opportunities for bow hunting exist on public lands in Wisconsin, but the state’s hunting safety specialist cautions that hunting these properties requires planning ahead to be safe and legal.
“It is important for bow deer and turkey hunters to note that other hunting seasons may be in progress when they are bow hunting,” says Tim Lawhern, hunter education administrator for the Department of Natural Resources. “Other people will be out hunting squirrel, dove, pheasant, waterfowl and other fall game, so everyone needs to be safety-conscious.”
To avoid being seen by their quarry, most bow hunters dress in camouflage clothing from head to toe -- but that same camouflage may prevent other hunters from seeing you.
“For safety’s sake, when you are bow hunting and you see other hunters near your area, you should speak out in a normal voice and announce that you are there. Don’t yell as that will startle them and you don’t want that while they are handling a firearm,” Lawhern says.
When moving to and leaving your hunting location, it might be wise to wear some garment of blaze orange.
“A cap, vest or gloves would help others see you while you are moving. Once you are at your hunting spot you could then remove them. A flashlight works great when you are moving about in low light conditions,” he adds.
To stay legal, bow hunters also need to remember the rules.
“While bow hunters can use tree stands on public lands, tree stands must be removed from the property at the end of hunting each day,” Lawhern says. “Also remember that screw-in tree steps are not legal to use on state-owned public lands because they cause damage when screwed into trees.”
In addition, trimming branches to create shooting lanes must be kept to a minimum on public lands. Dead branches can be removed and small amounts of pruning can be done.
“Wisconsin offers some great public hunting lands, and everyone can enjoy them by being courteous to each other, following safety precautions and observing the rules. Safe Hunting is NO Accident,” Lawhern says.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Tim Lawhern - (608) 266-13-17
