Target shooter or hunter?

[Sirca]

My property is surrounded by national forest and I target shoot (revolver, lever action, EBR, shotguns, compound bow) on national forest land all the time. Was reading a thread on another forum about game warden encounters, and it got me thinking...

I don't hunt (yet), and don't have a hunting license. I'm wondering if I came across a game warden while target shooting, or going to or coming from the same, if I could be at risk for being cited for some sort of hunting infraction. How would the warden determine whether I was target shooting or hunting?

[taloft]

It would depend on whether you were carrying targets or an animal carcass. Also, would depend on restrictions in the local area. Most localities only like people to target shoot in designated areas for just this reason, plus the fire hazard. Although, it is different in each area. It is a good question, perhaps you should call the local field office and find out? Cheaper than getting fined.

[B.D.Dubloon]

perhaps you should call the local field office and find out? Cheaper than getting fined.

This is a good idea. Also it probably wouldn't hurt to wear bright clothing, but it probably would hurt to wear your ghillie suit

[m98]

To make things worst if you don't have a hunting license is to be full dressed in camo gear and have hunting equipment on board ur vehicle. From experience, If you're just out to plink/target it will be very obvious to wardens that that was what you're just up to.

[DDG]

It would depend on whether you were carrying targets or an animal carcass. Also, would depend on restrictions in the local area. Most localities only like people to target shoot in designated areas for just this reason, plus the fire hazard. Although, it is different in each area. It is a good question, perhaps you should call the local field office and find out? Cheaper than getting fined.

Find out the regs for your area. Many hunting areas are "hunting only". If you are caught with a gun, you better have a hunting license. If it is mixed, hunting and target shooting, they need to catch you "in the act of hunting" or with a dead thing.

[Sirca]

Thanks. I'm stopping by F&G tomorrow.

[yellowfin]

I would say your clothing would indicate whether you're hunting or not.

[SCOOTERVB]

I would say look at how much ammo you have...if your hunting you don't need more than 20 rounds. But when I go plinking I've got over 200 rounds

[Capt. Speirs]

Just get a hunting license, sounds like you are going to anyways.