Hunting Near Waterholes

Nevada is the driest state in the country. As such, water is scarce and what is available is in great demand by both man and wildlife. Hunters know this, and often concentrate their efforts on waterholes in hopes of catching wildlife on their way in to drink. While it’s permissible to hunt in this manner, legal and ethical dilemmas can often crop up for hunters hunting waterholes on public lands.

Legally, there are a few things for hunters to keep in mind when it comes to waterholes. Nevada has one law written specifically on the subject, NRS 503.660 states simply that “It is unlawful for any person to camp within 100 yards of a waterhole in such a manner that wildlife or domestic stock will be denied access to such a waterhole.”

Another set of legal problems can arise when more than one hunter wants to hunt the same area. They are called threat, intimidation, disorderly conduct and assault citations or arrests that are a result of hunter confrontations that aren’t settled peacefully.

Here are some things to keep in mind when planning to hunt around a waterhole on public lands:

• Waterholes on public lands belong to everyone and all hunters are entitled to free and equal access.
• Hunters should respect each other’s rights and privileges. They should leave the area if another hunter gets to the waterhole first.
• No reservations exist on public lands. Exclusive hunting rights do not belong to any hunter, regardless of whether that hunter built the blind or hung the tree stand.
• Posting a sign or note at a waterhole or on a blind or tree stand does not give anyone the exclusive right to hunt there; the hunter must be present.

Thoughtful hunters will also consider the following when it comes to building blinds or hanging tree stands on public lands:

• It may be unlawful to cut any trees or branches while hanging tree stands or building blinds.
• It may be unlawful to leave stands or blinds in place for extended periods of time.
• Construction of permanent stands or blinds is unlawful without appropriate authorization.
• It may be unlawful to pound climbing spikes, nails or attach anything that penetrates the surface of a tree causing permanent injury or scarring.

Hunters are advised to always check with the appropriate land management agency regarding the use and/or restrictions of tree stands and blinds.

Common courtesy goes a long way and should always be used when more than one person wants to hunt the same area. Remember, responsible, ethical hunters work together to resolve differences and in turn, enhance the image of hunting.