Calls for safety as big game hunting season set to begin

Hunters throughout Newfoundland and Labrador are being encouraged to engage in safe and responsible hunting, and familiarize themselves with federal and provincial hunting regulations, as the 2019-2020 big game hunt is set to commence in certain parts of the province, the provincial government stated on Friday.

A news release notes the big game hunting season for moose and caribou opens for central and western areas of the island, including the Northern Peninsula, on Saturday (Sept. 14). Big game hunting for the eastern portion of the island commences Saturday, Oct. 5.

In Labrador moose hunting season opens on Saturday (Sept.14.)

There is no caribou hunting permitted in Labrador at present.

Bow hunting began Aug. 31 for areas opening on Saturday (Sept. 14) and begins Sept. 21 for areas opening on Oct. 5.

“The kickoff to the big game hunting season is an annual tradition met with enthusiasm by thousands of eager hunters throughout the province,” Gerry Byrne, minister of Fisheries and Land Resources, said in the news release.

“To ensure this tradition remains an enjoyable experience I am hopeful all participants practice safe and responsible hunting while encouraging each other to become responsible stewards of our wildlife resources. Educating ourselves about wildlife and conservation matters will foster greater interest and respect of hunting and trapping activities.”

Hunters are encouraged to review the 2019-2020 Hunting and Trapping Guide for important information about firearm safety, hunting regulations and starting dates for all hunting activity. The guide is available online at the Department of Fisheries and Land Resources website www.gov.nl.ca/hunting-trapping-guide/2019-20/ and on mobile devices.