With advances in technology, Idaho's Hunting and Advanced Technology Working Group looks at changes to some hunting methods/rules
With continual advances in technology – whether it’s optics, rifles, scopes and more – fish and game agencies are charged with changing rules and regulations to make hunting fair for all. Idaho has a working group that focuses on this specifically – the Hunting and Advanced Technology (HAT) Working Group. During the March meeting, Idaho Fish and Game Commissioners advanced the HAT Working Group’s final recommendations by requesting they be used in “developing negotiated rulemaking proposals, public outreach, and policy recommendation,” according to a news release.
The public will have a chance to weigh in on the proposed rule changes during the negotiated rulemaking process.
The HAT Working Group recommends that it be unlawful for any person to use any aircraft (including drones, helicopter, and fixed-wing aircraft) to spot, locate, or aid in the taking of any big game ungulates from July 1 through December 31 or dates as determined most appropriate by the Commission.
The HAT Working Group recommends that the current regulations related to smart optics be kept in place. Under current regulations, smart optics are unlawful when attached to or incorporated into a firearm while scopes with battery powered or tritium lighted reticles are allowed.
The Hat Working Group recommends maintaining the current muzzleloader regulations for Muzzleloader-Only Seasons.
The HAT Working Group recommends that the Commission consider the weapons allowed in short-range seasons and whether they align with the intent of short-range hunting seasons.
To promote ethical hunting practices and fair chase principles, the HAT Working Group recommends the IDFG increase education and outreach efforts.
The HAT Working Group recommends that access policies be balanced to provide hunting opportunity mindful of wildlife conservation to promote fair chase and sustainable hunting through strategic management.
There are no formal recommendations; however, the HAT Working Group has advised the Commission to keep close tabs on the rapidly evolving use of AI within the hunting community.
The HAT Working Group recommends keeping current archery equipment regulations.
There are three other recommendations that didn’t receive 100% approval from commissioners, but will be included into the negotiated rulemaking process:
The HAT Working Group recommends that it be unlawful to use night vision technology, mounted as well as handheld equipment, for scouting, hunting, or retrieving big game ungulates from July 1 through December 31 or dates as deemed most appropriate by the Commission.
The HAT Working Group recommends that it be unlawful to use thermal imaging technology for scouting, hunting, and retrieving big game ungulates from July 1 through December 31 or dates as determined most appropriate by the Commission.
For the purposes of hunting and scouting for big game ungulates, the HAT Working Group recommends that it be unlawful to use transmitting trail cameras from July 1 through December 31 or dates as determined most appropriate by the Commission, on public or public access property.
The public feedback form, meeting schedule, and additional resources can be found HERE.
