Now that wild turkey hunting season is underway, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry has some reminders for hunters.
Conservation officers will be patrolling over the spring months, and they will ask to see your license and inspect your firearm.
They have some tips for hunters who want to avoid costly fines.
Since they will be out and about, they suggest hunters keep their license with them at all times while hunting.
Many of the tips are meant to keep hunters safe during the hunting season, including handling firearms with care and keeping the safety on until you are sure of your target and what is beyond it.
Hunters are also advised not to wear red or blue under their camouflage, so they are not mistaken for a turkey by another hunter. If you see another hunter, do not wave your hands. That can be mistaken for a turkey flushing in the bush.
Conservation officers also want to remind hunters that it is never okay to shoot from or across a roadway and that it is illegal to have a loaded firearm in a vehicle. Firing a gun from a vehicle is also prohibited.
Impaired hunting, whether by alcohol or drugs is never permitted.
If your hunt takes you onto private land, make sure you have the landowner's permission before proceeding, and do not use off-road vehicles, camp, or build a blind on private property without their expressed approval.
The MNR has a hotline to report violations, 1-877-847-7667.
