Ask the Conservation Officer (CO)

by Gary Hompland, Regional Conservation Officer Question: "I heard the conservation officers have really been issuing a lot of citations this year for hunting jackrabbits without a hunting license. Why do you need a hunting license to hunt an unprotected species like jackrabbits?" Answer: Jackrabbits, both white-tailed and black-tailed, are classified by the state as predatory wildlife, rather than unprotected. The Idaho Fish and Game Commission rules say both predatory and unprotected wildlife may be taken in any amount, at any time, and in any manner not prohibited by state or federal law, by holders of the appropriate valid Idaho hunting, trapping, or combination hunting and fishing licenses, provided such taking is not in violation of state, county, or city laws or regulations. Additionally, Idaho Code requires purchase and possession of a valid Idaho hunting license when in the field hunting. The law says: "No person shall hunt, trap, or fish for or take any wild animal, bird, or fish of this state without first having procured a license." Hunting or fishing without a valid license is a common violation this time of the year as "cabin fever" or "spring fever" lures sportsmen out to hunt jackrabbits, rock chucks or ground squirrels. Anglers also begin to show up on reservoirs and streams. This year has been a "high" in the rabbit cycle for many areas. Populations of jackrabbits are numerous and sportsmen have been hunting. We have experienced a large number of hunters without hunting licenses in the Strevell area near the Utah border. In the last few months conservation officers and county sheriff's deputies have issued nearly 40 citations in that area for hunting without valid Idaho hunting licenses. All hunters are encouraged to purchase their hunting licenses prior to taking to the field, and carry a map to make sure the area you are hunting is open to prevent accidentally trespassing onto private property. Reference Idaho Code 36-401, IDAPa13.01.06.30003. 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.