New York DEC Considers Allowing Crossbow Hunting
Debating is a learning experience. I love to debate, where we can go back and forth, argue our points and learn from one another. Most bow hunters would consider a crossbow archery tackle, but do not want to share the woods during archery season. Why do you think that is? I have teetered on this subject throughout the years. In the past year I have weighed the facts and have changed my mind. I truly think that a crossbow IS archery tackle and should be allowed during archery season. Why do I think that way? Well, it still takes skill to prepare to hunt with a crossbow. You have to practice and know your gear. You still have to lug in a 12lb. weapon, load it, find your animal and make a quick, kill-shot.
So what’s the problem? Does it make you less of a hunter because you are using a crossbow? Hell no! It shows that you are versatile and can use other tools. Whatever weapon you choose shouldn’t ostracize you from being considered an archer. Take the relationship between traditional archers and compound users, for example. We use different tools, but one utilizes more gadgets, is slightly different to shoot and both are usable during any archery season. Yet, each hunter should be allowed to choose what he uses as a weapon, right? Right!
How do YOU feel about crossbows during archery season? If this were your home state, would you oppose it or go with it?
As quoted from The Outdoor Wire:
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Joe Martens today announced proposed regulation changes that will allow the use of crossbows for big game hunting and eliminate a permit requirement for certain physically disabled hunters to use special archery equipment during any big game or small game hunting season.“The proposed changes will provide our sportsmen and sportswomen additional opportunities while hunting afield this coming fall,” Commissioner Martens said. “The popularity of crossbows is growing in New York and the use of modified equipment is in high demand to meet the needs of our hunters who are temporarily or permanently disabled.”
The NYS DEC will be accepting public comments on the proposal through July 11. If you live in NY, I urge you to comment.
I will take public comments indefinitely. Shoot straight.
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