With hunting season just around the corner, the B.C. Conservation Officer Service is reminding those heading into the backcountry to make sure their identification is up to date.
Hunting season officially opens on Sept. 1 in the Cariboo Region for a wide range of wildlife. Conservation Officer Murray Booth, for 100 Mile House, said that this time of year, it's important for hunters to ensure they understand all hunting and trapping regulations.
"All of the rules in the Hunting Regulations must be followed. It is the hunter鈥檚 responsibility to know them before going out," Booth said. "As safety is the most important thing, make sure firearms are unloaded before going into a vehicle or an off-road vehicle."
Booth said that all hunters must carry all issued special licenses that they have purchased for this year, even if they have completed some of them, in addition to their photo ID. He noted examples of photo ID can include a BC ID card, a driver鈥檚 licence and a Federal Firearms Licence (PAL). All hunters using a firearm must have their PAL on hand to possess ammunition.
He also recommends that hunters carry a Fish and Wildlife Identification (FWID) card and make sure that they check if what they're planning to hunt is legal. Booth said that if a hunter makes a mistake or thinks they may have made a mistake, they can contact conservation by calling the RAPP line at 1-877-952-7277 to report it.
In the Cariboo, Booth said that mule deer season is open from Sept. 1 to Dec. 10, while white tailed deer season is open from Sept. 10 to Dec. 10, with restrictions applied. Black bears, meanwhile, are open from Sept. 1 to Nov. 30. Licences are available locally at Service BC and all local sporting goods stores. People can also buy licences online at , Booth noted.
"A common mistake for hunters is improperly or not completely cancelling their species licence. Instructions are on the back of the species licence," Booth said.
He advises that when cancelling the species license to do so with the help of a friend so they can double-check your work. If you have questions or think you made a mistake, he recommends calling the RAPP line at 1-877-952-7277 to report it right away.
If you're going hunting this fall, Booth also recommends you let somebody know where you're going and when you expect to be back, in case of an accident. He also said that hunters should practice proper caution when shooting an animal.
"Know your surroundings, what is between you and your target as well as behind your target before you shoot," Booth said. "Once the round is fired, it cannot be taken back."
Booth noted that the Conservation Officer Service will be out in full force patrolling the area during hunting season to ensure everyone's safety and help as needed. He concluded by, once again, encouraging people to call the RAPP line if they make a mistake or witness any illegal hunting, fishing or trapping activity.
