Chukar Hunters Urged To Catch The Drift

LEWISTON - With Idaho's chukar hunting season beginning September 18, the Idaho Department of Fish and Game (IDFG) reminds hunters who hunt from boats that they need to follow regulations specific to the use of watercraft. The use of watercraft to hunt birds, namely chukar and waterfowl, is popular along Idahos major rivers. Unfortunately, some hunters do not understand the restrictions involved. According to Regional Conservation Officer, Dave Cadwallader of Lewiston, IDFG law does allow hunting of chukar and waterfowl from a boat or other watercraft having a motor attached as long as the motor is completely shut off and forward progress has ceased. "This is an exception to the general rule that prohibits hunting game from any motorized vehicle," Cadwallader said. "The craft must then be drifting naturally in the current, beached, or resting at anchor." While this law has been effect for years, unfortunately, a few hunters violate the law when they fire from boats still under power, or coasting rapidly just after shutting the motor off. Good hunting ethics and safety should always be prime concerns when hunting from watercraft. Before heading afield, hunters are encouraged to review a copy of the 2004-2006 Upland Game Seasons and Rules booklet available at all license vendors and IDFG offices.