Date: 9/08/10
Contact: Doug Nielsen
Phone: (702) 486-5127 x 3500

DUCK HUNTERS SUBJECT TO BOATING LAWS TOO

Even though some waterfowl hunters pursue their quarry from a small boat or other watercraft, they sometimes fail to recognize that they are boaters and are therefore subject to Nevada’s boating regulations. This is probably due to the fact that waterfowl hunters generally use their boat simply as the means to get to and from their hunting spot rather than as the means of towing skiers or an inner tube full of kids around their favorite lake. But that kind of thinking doesn’t hold water.

With the 2010-2011 waterfowl season set to open Oct. 16 in much of the state, the Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) is reminding hunters that they too are subject to boating regulations and encouraging them to implement a few safety precautions to keep themselves and their passengers safe and sound. Because the only thing that should be bagged during a duck hunting trip is a few are ducks.

“Hunters, perhaps more so than the average recreational boater, should exercise every safety precaution. Especially when you consider the added equipment hunters carry in their boats and the additional layers of clothing they wear to protect against the weather. There is also a significant chance for hypothermia due to cold water temperatures should they happen to fall over board,” said Captain David Pfiffner, NDOW boating law administrator.

First and foremost everyone onboard the boat should wear a life jacket. A life jacket will keep you afloat if you fall over board allowing you to concentrate on getting yourself out of the cold water instead of struggling just to stay afloat. Inflatable life jackets don’t disrupt shooters and are available in drab colors. However, if you do happen to fall over board the color scheme changes and they become highly visible in the water.

Second, make sure you have all required safety gear on board. This includes a fire extinguisher, life jackets of proper size and fit for everyone on board, and a Type IV throwable cushion. While not mandatory, some additional items Pfiffner recommends are flares, a paddle, whistle or bell and a VHF marine band radio. Carrying an extra set of dry clothes in a waterproof sack and securely attaching it to the boat is always a good idea as well.

“Filing a float plan and letting someone know when and where you will be hunting and your expected return time will help rescuers locate you quickly if there is an accident,” said Pfiffner

Boats are a great tool for carrying heavy gear to your hunting spot, but if loaded improperly or overloaded the boat could capsize. Check your boat’s capacity plate for weight limits and make sure to distribute the weight evenly in the boat. If you are planning to hunt from your boat make sure to set up clear shooting zones with your partner in order to avoid any accidents. Remember, it is illegal to use a vessel to drive or stir up waterfowl for the purpose of hunting so wait until the boat is stationary before beginning to hunt.

Perhaps the most important safety tip is to take a state approved hunter safety course along with a boating safety course approved by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators. These courses will provide you with the necessary information to keep you safe while hunting and boating. More information about those courses can be found online at www.ndow.org or by calling (702) 486-5127.

The Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) protects, restores and manages fish and wildlife, promotes fishing, hunting, and boating safety. NDOW’s wildlife and habitat conservation efforts are primarily funded by sportsmen’s license and conservation fees and a Federal surcharge on hunting and fishing gear. Support wildlife and habitat conservation in Nevada by purchasing a hunting, fishing, or combination license. For more information, visit www.ndow.org.