Ask the Conservation Officer (CO)

by Gary Hompland, Regional Conservation Officer Question: "My friend was cited for hunting deer from a boat on the Snake River. Why is that unlawful?" Answer: I'm not aware of your friend's case but I can review the rules and discuss a common violation involving boats and big game hunting. First, you must understand a boat is a special type of vehicle. If the boat has a motor on it, then it becomes a "motorized vehicle" just like an automobile or ATV. Everyone is aware it is a violation to hunt as well as shoot game animals from a motorized vehicle. As a result; if you are hunting deer or shooting at deer from a boat with a motor attached, you are hunting from a motorized vehicle. This is clearly a violation of Idaho law. A boat without a motor is lawful to use to hunt big game. Some people get confused because Idaho law allows waterfowl and upland game hunters to use motorboats for hunting. The law even allows shooting ducks and upland game birds from a motorboat if the motor is shut off and the boat has ceased all forward progress from the power of the motor. This accommodation has not been extended to big game hunting. Your friend can still use a motorboat to transport hunters to spots such as the islands in the river where they would then beach the boat and hunt the islands on foot. Another item that must be discussed about hunting from a boat is trespass hunting on private property. The beds and banks of the Snake River below the mean high water mark belong to the citizens of Idaho; however, beyond the high water mark is private property. Shooting onto or trespassing onto private property posted with "no trespassing" signs or agricultural fields without permission may also result in a citation. Reference 36-1101(b)1 and 36-1601, 1602, and 1603 Idaho Code. If you have any further questions you may call the Magic Valley Regional Office of the Idaho Department of Fish and Game at (208)324-4350 or e-mail us at the Fish and Game web site at http://fishandgame.idaho.gov.