Use of Salt and Bait Goes Against Fair Chase Ethics

LEWISTON - With the big game archery season rapidly approaching, the Idaho Department of Fish and Game (IDFG) reminds hunters that the use of bait, including salt, to attract deer or elk for the purposes of hunting goes against fair chase ethics and is illegal. "Hunting over salt or bait clearly violates fair chase ethics because it takes advantage of an unnatural condition created by the hunter," said Barry Cummings, conservation officer based in Deary. "It's illegal, unethical and it takes opportunity away from those hunters who are trying to do it right." Pursuing an animal in their natural environment and overcoming its senses is referred to as fair chase. This concept is the basis for many fish and game laws and is critical in order to defend the sport of hunting. Unfortunately, there are some people that abuse or break fair chase regulations and kill wildlife unlawfully. According to Idaho law, the use of bait to hunt or take big game animals other than black bear is unlawful. Bait is defined as any substance placed to attract big game animals, except liquid scent for deer and elk. The use of salt placed to attract elk or deer for hunting is considered bait and is illegal. IDFG has been patrolling suspected areas and will be looking for additional bait sites when the big game archery season opens Monday, August 30. Anyone that witnesses or has information about any fish and game violation is encouraged to contact their local conservation officer, county sheriff's office, or call the Citizens Against Poaching (CAP) at 1-800-632-59999. People with information leading to a citation can be eligible for a monetary reward.