Changes include increased hunting opportunities, simplified archery and muzzleloader restrictions
The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) wants to make hunting and fishing within the state easier for residents and nonresidents to enjoy. The agency is proposing changes that would take effect in 2019. Some of the proposed changes include adding more hunting opportunities and simplifying draw weight restrictions for bowhunters. The proposal, which will be discussed during the Fish and Wildlife Commission’s June 8 meeting, is a direct result of listening to Oregon’s hunters and anglers.
“Hunters tell us the regulations are too complicated, so we are making an effort to simplify whatever we can while still meeting the intent to conserve wildlife and ensure fair chase of game,” said Nick Myatt, ODFW Grande Ronde Watershed Manager.
To view the entire list of proposed changes, click here. Highlights include:
Stay tuned to GOHUNT to find out if these changes are approved for 2019.
Creating a standard minimum draw weight of 40 lbs for all big game animals rather than keeping the current minimum draw weight of 50 lbs for elk, bighorn sheep and mountain goat and 40 lbs for other big game.
Eliminating the requirement that muzzleloaders have an open ignition, removing the pelletized powder ban and changing the legal bullet regulation to “It is illegal to hunt with or possess sabots or saboted bullets.”
Changing southwest Oregon’s first come, first served spring bear hunt to a controlled hunt like other spring bear hunts in the state.
Removing maximum party size limits for deer, elk, pronghorn and bear hunts.
Limiting leftover tag purchases to people who have not already drawn a tag to allow more people an opportunity to hunt each year.
Streamlining limits on nonresident tags so deer, elk, pronghorn and bear controlled hunts will all have a maximum of 5% percent nonresident tags.
