Chukar Hunters Urged To Catch The Drift

With Idaho's chukar hunting season going full bore, Idaho Fish and Game is reminding 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 Idaho's major rivers. Unfortunately, some hunters do not understand the restrictions involved. IDFG law does allow hunting from a boat or other watercraft having a motor attached as long as certain steps are followed. The motor must be completely shut off and forward progress from the motor has ceased. The craft must then be drifting naturally in the current, beached, or resting at anchor. While this law has been in effect for years, a few hunters violate the law when they fire from boats still under power, or boats that are coasting rapidly just after the motor is shut 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 Fish and Game offices. Rules are also available online at fishandgame.idaho.gov.