WILDFIRE

DWR offers tips for hunters as big game hunting seasons approaches

Sep 18, 2023, 8:00 PM | Updated: 8:10 pm

two buck deer shown, deer elk and moose are at risk for chronic wasting disease in utah...

Two buck deer in northern Utah. (Jim Shuler via Utah Division of Wildlife Resources)

(Jim Shuler via Utah Division of Wildlife Resources)

SALT LAKE CITY — As the big game hunting season gets underway in Utah, the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources is reminding hunters to prepare ahead of time.

As hunters head out into the mountains and fields this season, the DWR offers advice that every hunter should know. By following these tips, hunters can reduce the chances of an unfortunate mistake happening in the field.

Do your homework

The DWR says that individuals wouldn’t attempt to fly a plane without training or preparation. Along those same lines, they say people shouldn’t go hunting or fishing without knowing the laws.

According to a DWR press release, one of the most common hunting violations that officers encounter is someone who kills wildlife without a valid hunting license or expired fishing license.

In order to obtain a hunting license, you must take hunter education or take part in Utah’s Trial Hunting Program. For some species, an additional permit is required.

Once you have obtained a hunting license, you then need to educate yourself on the guidebook of the wildlife that you are going to hunt. 

“The best way to stay out of trouble is to review the regulations. And carefully check your permit before you go out in the field,” DWR Capt. Chad Bettridge said in the press release. “It’s shocking how many people go hunting without even opening their envelope to see what permit they drew.”

Click on the links for additional information on hunting and fishing

Hunters must seek permission and never trespass

Written permission from the landowner in advance is required if you desire to hunt on private property, according to the DWR. 

If you are caught trespassing, it can lead to fines and a class B misdemeanor. Additionally, hunters must know where the tribal lands are in the state and not trespass on those lands, either.

If you do receive permission from a landowner, clean up after yourself, and leave the gates the way you found them.

Other common mistakes

The DWR says another common mistake is when an individual shoots the wrong animal. The DWR stresses the importance of making sure you know what you are shooting at before pulling the trigger.

“Never take that shot if you aren’t absolutely sure and confident of your target and what is beyond your target, including if there are roads or buildings in the area,” Bettridge said in the press release.

The DWR also points out that an animal may not always immediately drop when it’s shot. It could cross into private property before dying. This is another common scenario that the DWR has seen.

“If you choose to hunt so close to the boundary that the animal may jump the fence or cross that boundary line, then you need to prepare in advance for that possibility,” Bettridge said in the release. “You can’t just cross onto that private property and retrieve the deer.

For additional information, you are encouraged to reach out to one of the DWR offices around the state. 

Read more:

We want to hear from you.

Have a story idea or tip? Send it to the KSL NewsRadio team here.

Wildfire

...

Kyle Remund

Tooele brush fire put out by fire crews

A brush fire spotted by an anonymous citizen in Tooele County was quickly brought under control by firefighters Saturday afternoon.

15 days ago

(Chopper 5)...

Jacob Freeman, KSL TV

Yellow Lake Fire 45% contained with more snow coming

The Yellow Lake Fire is at 45% containment and snow is expected to hit the area on Monday, helping to decrease the fire.

16 days ago

Kamas Valley - Yellow Lake fire smoke out....

Jacob Freeman, KSLTV

Evacuations lifted after snow spells good news for Yellow Lake Fire

There are now 433 personnel working on extinguishing the Yellow Lake Fire as the fire slows and evacuations are lifted due to snow and rain.

23 days ago

The Yellow Lake Fire is human-caused...

ALEX CABRERO AND LARRY D. CURTIS, KSL TV

Utah town Hanna praying for snow as Yellow Lake Fire looms

People in of Hanna are hoping for snow. They’ve been on constant alert to prepare to evacuate because of the Yellow Lake Fire burning nearby.

25 days ago

Smoke inversion clouds the air in a valley near the Yellow Lake Fire...

Allessandra Harris Gurr

Upcoming storm could mitigate current fire danger in Utah

Firefighters could finally get a break this weekend with an upcoming storm that is expected to curb current fire danger and wildfires.

26 days ago

The Yellow Lake Fire in the Uinta mountains as it burned through the fall forestry on Sept. 29, 202...

Adam Small

Could the incoming storm help contain the Yellow Lake Fire?

The Yellow Lake Fire continues to burn having consumed over 30,000 acres, could an incoming storm help contain it.

28 days ago

Sponsored Articles

A surprise gift, wrapped and ready to bring holiday cheer! Whether for Christmas, a birthday, or an...

Western Nut

10 Holiday Gift Ideas to cover everyone on your list

This guide is for you if you need holiday gift ideas that will make a lasting impression. 

Stressed young woman checking bills, taxes, bank account balance and calculating expenses in the li...

The Law Offices of Jordan F. Wilcox

Why you should speak to a Utah lawyer about longstanding IRS tax issues

Hiring a lawyer to navigate longstanding IRS tax issues can make a significant difference in achieving a favorable resolution.

4 construction workers fixing roof against clouds blue sky, install shingles at the top of the hous...

Chipman Roofing

Weather the storms by maintaining your roof

By taking the time to assess your roof's condition and make repairs as needed, you maintain the longevity of your home's stability.

Tax Harassment...

The Law Offices of Jordan F. Wilcox

Feeling intimidated by the IRS? 6 Essential facts you should know.

If you are receiving threatening letters and wage garnishments from the IRS, hiring an attorney can help ensure your rights are protected.

Photo courtesy of Nightmare on 13th...

Nightmare on 13th

Here’s why Nightmare on 13th is the best haunted house in Utah

Fall brings Halloween, and Halloween brings Haunted Houses. There’s no better Haunted House than Nightmare on 13th – here’s why!

USA, Utah, Bear Lake. The deep blue of Utah's Bear Lake contrasts with autumn foliage....

Bear Lake Convention & Visitors Bureau

Experience Bear Lake’s all-year activities

We break down Bear Lake's four-season recreational offerings so the whole family can enjoy their time there any time of the year.

DWR offers tips for hunters as big game hunting seasons approaches