2018 Hunters' and Trappers' Guide - Saskatchewan - Publications Saskatchewan
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Saskatchewan Hunters’ and Trappers’ Guide 2018 saskatchewan.ca/hunting
Table of Contents Be an Ethical Hunter ...............................................................................1 What's New for 2018 ...............................................................................2 Hunting Opportunities for 2018 ................................................................3 Licensing Fees and Requirements .............................................................5 Residency, Firearm Safety/Hunter Education Training................................7 Youth Hunters, Volunteer Opportunities....................................................8 Hunter Harvest Survey.............................................................................9 Wildlife Research ....................................................................................9 Fish and Wildlife Development Fund........................................................9 Summary of Hunting Regulations ...........................................................10 Saskatchewan Resident Draw Season Dates .............................................19 Canadian Resident Draw Season Dates....................................................26 Regular Season Dates.............................................................................28 Migratory Game Birds (all hunters).........................................................35 Upland Game Birds (Saskatchewan residents) Season Dates .....................36 Upland Game Birds (Canadian and non-residents) Season Dates ..............37 2019 Spring White Geese (all hunters) ....................................................37 Trapping Season Dates ...........................................................................38 Summary of Trapping Regulations and Information .................................39 Update on Trapping Standards................................................................41 Have a Question? Call 1-800-567-4224 (in North America) or email centre.inquiry@gov.sk.ca
1
Be an ethical hunter
Help ensure future hunting opportunities
To continue our hunting traditions for future generations, we should all be
aware of the importance of good hunter ethics. Responsible hunters will always
conduct themselves in a manner that consistently demonstrates respect for the
hunting tradition, other outdoor enthusiasts, landowners and the general
public, as well as all wildlife resources and the environment.
Since most hunting in Saskatchewan takes place on private land, hunting
activity is visible to many people, including other hunters, landowners and the
non-hunting public. Public perception of hunting is often determined and
influenced by hunter behaviour. Continued access to land depends on the
actions of all hunters. Ethical hunting practices include:
Respect for the landowner
· Always obtain permission prior to hunting on private land, even if the land
is not posted.
· Abide by the landowners' requests while on their property and follow all
posted instructions.
· Minimize vehicle use on all lands.
· Refrain from travelling on roads when they are prone to damage.
· Always thank landowners for the privilege to hunt on their land.
Respect for the resource
· Properly identify game and follow all wildlife regulations.
· Do your part by participating in hunter harvest and game observation
surveys.
· Ensure your firearm is properly sighted in and always strive for humane
dispatch of your game.
· Follow the principles of fair chase and report any illegal activities.
Respect for others
· Practice safe firearm handling at all times.
· Use discretion in transporting game animals from
your hunting area to your home. Saskatchewan Hunting,
· Respect all viewpoints of hunting.
Fishing and Trapping
Heritage Day is
November 15, 2018.
2
Get information
How To Use This Guide on our automated
hunting, angling and trapping
What’s New for 2018 licence (HAL) system on page 23
Landowner permission is now required before placing trail cameras or stands
on private land. Other changes for 2018 include allowing hunters to use tree
stands or blinds on wildlife lands provided they are removed at the end of the
day, and to use vehicles off roads and trails with landowner permission in order
to place bait, stands or trail cameras within Regina/Moose Jaw and Saskatoon
wildlife management zones (WMZs), provided there is no firearm in the
vehicle.
Chronic Wasting Disease
Chronic wasting disease (CWD) surveillance will continue for the 2018 hunting
season. CWD has been detected in approximately 50 per cent of the farmland
wildlife management zones. The disease has been found in mule deer, white-
tailed deer, elk and moose. Animals infected with CWD may appear healthy
and show no signs of disease. It is recommended that hunters have their
harvested cervids tested, and not consume or distribute the meat from known
infected animals. Hunters are encouraged to submit samples for testing, free of
charge, prior to consuming harvested animals. Hunters can submit samples for
CWD testing from an animal and still have a mount prepared by a taxidermist.
For more information on how to prepare a sample for submission, and to obtain
a unique CWD surveillance tracking number, visit cwdsk.ca.
Changes to Allowed Firearms for Big Game Hunting
Recent amendments now allow most common centre fire rifle cartridges to be
used to hunt big game. This regulation recognizes that advances in cartridge
design have justified allowing smaller calibre firearms for hunting big game
species. However, the ministry recommends that cartridges larger than .23
calibre continue to be used for game species such as moose, elk and black bear.
See page 11 for details.
Barren Ground Caribou
The barren-ground caribou season will be closed in 2018 in response to
population declines across northern Canada. The ministry, along with the
Beverly and Qamanirjuaq Caribou Management Board, will be monitoring the
status of caribou herds and the factors contributing to caribou population
decline over the next several years, and recommend management actions to aid
in recovery of the herds and return to traditional caribou range.3 Hunting Opportunities for 2018 White-tailed Deer Opportunities White-tailed deer populations are stable or slightly increasing across the province, and in some areas are nearing the long-term average. For the most part, the season structure for 2018 will be similar to last year. Season dates in city WMZs (Saskatoon, Regina/Moose Jaw and Prince Albert) for either-sex white-tailed deer are being lengthened as a response to increased deer numbers and an antlerless season is available in these three WMZs. Antlerless opportunities are now offered in WMZ 7 west, 14 west and 55 as a quota limited regular hunting season. See page 29 for details on obtaining this licence. The Canadian resident season is unchanged from 2017. Moose Opportunities Forest moose populations continue to decline with several zones 30 to 50 per cent below the long-term average. In response to this population decline, the ministry has adjusted the regular licence season length for all hunters as a means to reduce harvest and protect moose. The draw season for forest zones remain the same; however, quotas have been reduced. Farmland moose populations remain at or above long-term objectives in some WMZs. Quotas remain similar to 2017 with select WMZs seeing slight reductions. Season dates in southern farmland zones have been changed to reduce conflict with active farming operations. The either-sex draw moose season will be delayed until mid-October and the antlerless season will start at the beginning of November in WMZs 1 to 5, 8 to 29, 31, 32 and Regina/Moose Jaw WMZ. Season dates for other farmland zones are unchanged. Refer to page 19 for additional draw season information. Elk Opportunities Interest in elk hunting remains very high, while elk populations are generally at or slightly above population objectives. The number of draw elk licences was increased significantly throughout farmland WMZs in 2017 and quotas in these zones will be similar in 2018. Efforts to reduce elk numbers in the Moose Mountain area continue with liberal quotas for both either-sex and antlerless animals. Interested hunters, please note the season dates for this area have been revised. Regular season elk opportunities are unchanged. Mule Deer Opportunities Provincially, mule deer populations have recovered. New either-sex mule deer hunting opportunities are being introduced in WMZs 37 and 48, bringing the total to 60 zones. Antlerless mule deer seasons are now offered in 50 zones with this year's addition of WMZ 27. Quotas for both either-sex and antlerless animals have been increased in many WMZs to manage population growth. Regular archery mule deer licences will be offered in all the same zones as 2017, with the addition of WMZs 2W, 3, 7E, 7W, 12, 14E, 14W, 15, 28, 29E, 30, 39, 40, 42E, 42W, 43, 50 and 52.
4
Pronghorn Antelope
Pronghorn populations continue to expand throughout much of their range as
winter weather conditions were favourable in 2017-18. Wildlife managers are
proposing increased hunting opportunities with new quotas in three combined
zones. The season structure has been expanded with designated archery,
muzzleloader and rifle seasons in place for this fall. As in past years, the draw for
pronghorn antelope will be conducted in July after the population surveys have
been concluded. Draw results will be released as soon as possible with email
notifications and website updates.
Game Birds
Most waterfowl populations remain at or above target levels. However, dry
conditions over much of the province may reduce spring recruitment. Normal
precipitation throughout the spring and summer will be critical for good
reproductive success. Season dates and bag limits have not changed.
Upland bird populations vary across the province with the southwest WMZs
providing the best opportunity for sharp-tailed grouse and gray partridge. Forest
grouse populations are at a low point in their natural cycle. Seasons and bag limits
remain unchanged.
Respect Private Land
85 per cent of southern Saskatchewan is privately-owned
or controlled lands.
Please ask for permission to access private land, even if it is not posted. Always follow the
landowner’s wishes regarding vehicle access and minimize any damage to trails or roads
caused by your vehicle.
Signs which read Hunt on Foot Only, Vehicles Restricted to Roads and Trails Only, Please
Close this Gate and Occupied Building within 500 Metres are available free of charge to
landowners from ministry offices.
If you see a hunting violation, call the toll-free number or submit a report online
24 hours a day, seven days a week.
saskatchewan.ca/tip | 1-800-667-7561 | SaskTel Cell #55555
Licensing Fees and Requirements
Note: Hunting licences, whether paper copy or electronic, and any required seals
or ledgers must be carried with you at all times when hunting. Fall licences will be
available August 1, 2018. All licences include
GST (goods and services tax)
Wildlife Habitat Certificate ........................................................................$15.00
Note: : The ministry's automated licence system ensures that any purchase of a hunting or
fur licence also includes a 2018 Wildlife Habitat Certificate (one-time purchase only).
Game Birds
Saskatchewan Resident Game Bird ..............................................................$20.00
Canadian Resident Game Bird ......................................................................$80.00
Non-resident Game Bird ..............................................................................$160.00
Note: : A Federal Migratory Game Bird Permit, the applicable Saskatchewan game bird licence and Wildlife
Habitat Certificate are all required to hunt waterfowl.
Migratory Game Bird Permit .........................................................................$17.85
(Available at post offices, select licence issuers or at permis-permits.ec.gc.ca/en)
Youth Game Licence (Saskatchewan residents only) ................................$20.00
(includes a game bird and first white-tailed deer licence, a fur licence is also available)
Note: must be 12 to 18 years of age (inclusive) and have successfully completed a firearm safety/hunter
education course.
White-tailed Deer
First Saskatchewan Resident ........................................................................$40.00
First Saskatchewan Resident Antlerless (available Aug. 15) ..................................$30.00
Second Saskatchewan Resident Antlerless (available in select zones Aug. 15) ....$30.00
Canadian Resident Draw .............................................................................$160.00
Guided (Canadian and Non-residents)*......................................................$330.00
Elk
Saskatchewan Resident.................................................................................$40.00
Saskatchewan Resident Draw .......................................................................$65.00
Moose
Saskatchewan Resident.................................................................................$40.00
Saskatchewan Resident Draw .......................................................................$65.00
Guided (Saskatchewan, Canadian and non-residents)*............................$375.00
Mule Deer
Saskatchewan Resident Archery...................................................................$45.00
Saskatchewan Resident Draw .......................................................................$45.00
First Saskatchewan Resident Antlerless Draw .............................................$30.00
Second Saskatchewan Resident Antlerless Draw (available in select zones) .......$30.00
Pronghorn Antelope
Saskatchewan Resident Draw .......................................................................$45.006 Wolf Saskatchewan Resident.................................................................................$50.00 Black Bear Saskatchewan Resident.................................................................................$25.00 Canadian Resident (non-guided) ................................................................$100.00 Guided (Canadian and non-residents)* ......................................................$200.00 Note: an unused 2018 bear licence purchased for the spring season is valid for the 2018 fall season. Fur Licences (Saskatchewan residents only): Southern Fur Conservation Area ..................................................................$40.00 (SFCA, includes all private and occupied Crown land in central and southern Saskatchewan) Northern Fur Conservation Area ...................................................................$20.00 (NFCA, includes all unoccupied Crown land in central and northern Saskatchewan) Note: Licences available only at Ministry of Environment offices and only NFCA member trappers are eligible for this licence, see page 38. Youth Fur Licence (SFCA or NFCA, available only at Ministry of Environment offices) ..........Free Note: must be a Saskatchewan resident aged 12 to 18 years (inclusive) who has successfully completed a firearm safety/hunter education course and a trapper education course. Free youth fur licences are available separately with the purchase of a Habitat Certificate, or as part of the youth licence package. Saskatchewan Treaty Indian (available at local band offices) ....................................Free Note: Valid only for the sale of furs taken on an Indian reserve. Replacement Seals or Ledgers (available only at Ministry of Environment offices) ....$5.40 Note: Harvest ledgers and big game seals that have been registered (activated) with a hunting licence and have been lost, inadvertently detached or destroyed, must be replaced in order to lawfully hunt. Reprints of Lost/Destroyed Licences ............................................................Free Note: : Valid licences (excluding seals or ledgers) may be reprinted online on your personal computer, at a Ministry of Environment office (no charge) or from a private licence issuer. * Guided Licences · All non-resident big game hunters (white-tailed deer, moose and bear) and Canadian resident moose hunters must use the services of an outfitter and possess the applicable guided licence. · Canadian resident black bear hunters may hunt with or without an outfitter; however, if an outfitter is used, a guided licence is required. · Canadian resident hunters who hold a draw white-tailed deer licence have the option to hunt with or without an outfitter and do not require a guided licence. Note: In order for a hunter to purchase a guided licence his or her outfitter must first purchase a Resource Allocation Licence (RAL) and associate it to the hunter's HAL account. Reminder to Hunters Please check with authorities prior to importing wildlife to your home state or province. Other jurisdictions may have additional requirements or restrictions for importing game animals taken in Saskatchewan.
7 Residency Information A Saskatchewan resident is a: · Canadian resident whose principal residence is in Saskatchewan, who has been living in the province for three months prior to applying for a licence and possesses a valid Saskatchewan Health Services card (including RCMP members); · member of the regular force of the Canadian Armed Forces who is stationed and residing in the province or who was a Saskatchewan resident when recruited or deployed from the province. Saskatchewan residency confirmation is based on the possession of a valid Health Services Card (HSC). All Saskatchewan residents including RCMP members must ensure their name is entered exactly as it appears on their valid HSC when creating a HAL account. HSC numbers are not recorded. Members of the Canadian Armed Forces can use their regimental numbers when establishing their HAL account. Note: Saskatchewan residents must advise the Ministry of Health (1-800-667-7551) if their mailing address changes in order to keep their HSC account current and to avoid issues with residency confirmation. A Canadian resident is a: · person whose principal residence is in Canada, and who is a Canadian citizen or has resided in Canada for 12 months immediately before his/her application for a licence. A non-resident is a: · person other than a Canadian or Saskatchewan resident. Firearm Safety/Hunter Education Training People born after January 1, 1971 must hold a certificate from a recognized firearm safety/hunter education course in order to hold or apply for a Saskatchewan game or fur licence. Conservation officers may ask individuals to present proof of training. It is unlawful to apply for a licence without recognized training. All first-time purchasers of hunting or trapping licences will be asked to confirm that they hold a firearm safety/hunter education certificate. You can contact the Saskatchewan Association for Firearm Education (SAFE) to check your status or to obtain documentation of successful completion at 306-352-6730 or visit saskhuntered.ca). If you have received your training outside of Canada or the United States, contact SAFE or a ministry office to confirm the training is recognized in Saskatchewan.
8
Youth hunters (under 18 years of age)
· While hunting, youth aged 12 to 15 inclusive, must be under the direct
supervision of an adult who is at least 18 years of age. Subject to federal
firearms legislation, youth aged 16 to 17 may hunt unsupervised.
Note: Firearm safety/hunter education training differs from the Canadian
Firearms Safety Course. The federally-sponsored Canadian Firearms Safety
Course allows successful students to apply for a Possession and Acquisition
licence (which authorizes a person to possess or purchase a rifle or shotgun)
and allows the holder to purchase ammunition. The Canadian Firearms
Safety Course does not authorize a person to purchase a Saskatchewan
hunting or trapping licence.
Note: Federal firearm legislation requires that:
> any person who does not hold a Federal Possession and Acquisition
Licence (PAL) or Federal Minors' Permit must be under the supervision of
someone who holds a PAL.
> if a youth hunter possesses a Federal Minors' Permit, they can hunt
without supervision provided they are 16 years of age or older.
· Youth aged 12 to 15 must have a parent or guardian complete the consent
portion of the Saskatchewan hunting licence. Each subsequent licence will
require completion of the consent section.
· A youth game licence includes both an either-sex white-tailed deer licence
and a game bird licence. Youth wishing to hunt waterfowl must purchase a
federal migratory game bird permit, except during Waterfowler Heritage Days
(see below).
· A free youth fur licence is also available with the youth game licence or as a
stand-alone licence with the purchase of a Wildlife Habitat Certificate. First-
time trappers must successfully complete a recognized humane trapper
education course or pass an equivalency test available from Ministry of
Environment offices.
Waterfowl Heritage Days
(September 1 to 3 and October 6 to 8, 2018)
Waterfowler Heritage Days allow youth under 18 years of age to hunt waterfowl
during these dates without a federal migratory bird permit, while under the
supervision of an adult hunter. The youth hunter must be a Saskatchewan
resident and must have graduated from a firearm safety/hunter education
course and possess a provincial game bird licence (available as part of the
youth game licence). The supervising hunter must be an adult, be fully
licensed, and is not allowed to carry a firearm. Up to two youth hunters can be
supervised at one time.9 Volunteer Opportunities Co-operative Wildlife Management Survey The Co-operative Wildlife Management Survey (CWMS) is a long-standing, volunteer-based survey of game populations, specifically mule deer, white-tailed deer, moose, elk and select upland game birds. Participants can now use their smartphone (mobile app available at Google Play or the Apple store) to record their observations or use the traditional paper-based survey form. Participating in this volunteer-based survey is an excellent opportunity to take an active and valued role in wildlife management. More observers are needed; for information, contact the Ministry of Environment at 1-800-567-4224. 2018 Hunter Harvest Survey Hunter harvest surveys are an important component of managing game in Saskatchewan and provide valuable information for quota and season setting for the upcoming year. There are three ways to complete your hunter harvest survey(s): through your HAL account, by visiting a Ministry of Environment office, or by calling 1-888-773-8450. As an added incentive, for every survey a hunter completes, they will be entered in a draw for one of several prizes. Wildlife Research The ministry, in co-operation with its partners at the University of Saskatchewan, is currently researching the seasonal activities of mule deer, caribou and white- tailed deer. A number of animals have been fitted with radio collars in order to track their movements. We ask that hunters refrain from shooting these animals and to report all sightings to your nearest Ministry of Environment office. Banded Waterfowl Hunters who shoot banded waterfowl should report the band number and harvest information by calling toll free: 1-800-327-BAND (2263), or at reportband.gov or email: BBO_cws@ec.gc.ca. Fish and Wildlife Development Fund The Fish and Wildlife Development Fund (FWDF) was initiated in 1970 with funding provided by 30 per cent of the revenue generated from the sale of hunting, angling and trapping licences, including big game draw application fees. The main objectives of the terrestrial/wildlife component of the FWDF are to secure and protect quality wildlife habitat, to support research and data collection that will enhance the capacity to manage wildlife and its habitats, and to promote public awareness of our wildlife resources. Through partnerships with Ducks Unlimited Canada, Nature Conservancy of Canada and the Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation, there were 1,300 hectares (3,211 acres) of land purchased and 256 hectares (633 acres) protected through conservation easements in the last year.
10
Summary of Saskatchewan Hunting
REGULATIONS
The following is a summary of applicable regulations and, as such, the original statutes should be
consulted for all purposes of interpretation and application of the law. Regulations that apply to
hunting and trapping in Saskatchewan are The Wildlife Act, 1998; The Wildlife Regulations, 1981; The
Open Seasons Game Regulations, 2009; The Wildlife Management Zones and Special Areas Boundaries
Regulations, 1990; The Fur Animals Open Seasons Regulations, The Firearm Safety/Hunter Education
Regulations, 2009, The Dog Training Regulations, 1982, The Outfitter and Guide Regulations, 2004; The
Migratory Birds Convention Act, 1994; and The Migratory Birds Regulations. Copies of these
documents may be obtained at publications.gov.sk.ca/freelaw.
General > If a hunter wounds an animal
It is a violation to: and it runs onto posted land, it
· hunt any wildlife at night, one-half is the hunter's responsibility to
hour after sunset to one-half hour contact the landowner and
before sunrise. obtain permission to hunt
· shoot across, along or from a before entering the posted land.
provincial highway, provincial road · retrieve a wounded animal after
or municipal road. legal hunting hours without consent
· use any artificial light, infrared from a conservation officer.
device, night vision scopes or · shoot an animal of the incorrect
goggles for the purpose of hunting. species or sex.
· carry a loaded firearm in or on a > if a hunter shoots any wildlife
vehicle or while on horseback. of the incorrect species or sex,
> a rifle or shotgun is deemed the hunter shall immediately
loaded when shells are in the field dress the animal, then call
magazine or when a loaded clip the local conservation officer to
is attached to a hinge plate or in report it.
contact with the firearm. · transport any game, including
> a muzzleloader is deemed pheasants, not accompanied by
loaded when the firearm is evidence of its sex and age except
charged and the ignition system when all ages and both sexes of
is in place on the firearm. game may be legally hunted.
· hunt within 500 metres of a · injure or kill a game bird or animal
building, stockade or corral without making every reasonable
occupied by people or livestock attempt to retrieve it.
without the consent of the owner or · waste, destroy, allow to spoil or
occupant in charge. abandon the edible flesh of a game
· hunt on posted land (e.g. no bird or big game animal, except
hunting or no trespassing) without black bear and wolf.
the consent of the owner or > if a hunter harvests a big game
occupant. animal that appears unhealthy
Note: regardless of how land is or has been previously injured,
posted, persons may hunt on that the hunter should contact the
land provided they have permission local conservation officer.
from the landowner or lessee. Should the carcass be deemed11
unfit for human consumption, a centimetres2 or 15 inches2 (3
replacement licence or licence inches by 5 inches).
refund may be issued upon > a high-visibility garment carrying
relinquishment of the animal. a Canadian Standards
· use any vehicle or power boat to Association (CSA) label stating
chase wildlife. CAN/CSA Z96. This designation
· operate an aircraft or be assisted by a includes Z96-02, Z96-09 or Z96-
person operating an aircraft including 15 (indicates the year the
unmanned aircraft (drone) for any standard was updated). Both
purpose connected with searching class 2 (vest) or class 3
for, hunting or killing wildlife. (coveralls) garments are lawful
· Use the following devices for hunting hunting apparel.
or killing wildlife: > headwear must be scarlet, bright
> spears, darts, spear throwers, yellow or blaze orange (white is
blowguns or any similar device. not allowed). The headwear may
> barbed or poisoned arrows, or include a small label or crest not
arrows with explosive heads. exceeding 50 centimetres2 or 7.8
Licences inches2 (2.6 inches by 3 inches).
It is a violation to: · hunt big game with:
· use more than one HAL ID number > any cartridge with an empty
for the purpose of obtaining or cartridge case length of less
applying for a licence. than 32 mm (this includes most
· hold a regular and a draw big game handgun cartridges and all
licence for the same species. rimfire cartridges).
· hold two licences of the same licence > any centre fire rifle cartridge of
type in any one year (e.g. either-sex .17 calibre.
mule deer). > or any of the following
· hold or apply for a big game draw cartridges: .22 Hornet, .22 K-
licence while suspended. Hornet, .218 Bee, .25-20
· use or carry another person's big Winchester, .30 Carbine, .32-20
game licence, seal or certificate while Winchester, .357 Magnum, .41
hunting. Remington Magnum, .44-40
· hunt with detached seals or seals Winchester or .45 Colt.
that have not been associated to a > full metal-jacketed, hardpoint,
big game licence through HAL. non-expanding bullets.
· tamper, alter or mutilate any licence > a pneumatic firearm or device
or seal (the licence or seal is deemed propelling arrows, crossbow bolts
void). or projectiles by compressed air,
Big Game nitrogen, carbon dioxide or any
It is a violation to: other gas. This includes devices
· hunt big game with a rifle, hunt in a such as the air bow or large
designated rifle-only season, or calibre air rifles.
accompany a rifle hunter without > a slingbow or similar elastic
wearing: powered devices.
> a vest (an outer garment that > a pistol or revolver.
covers the torso) of scarlet, bright > a bow with a draw weight of less
yellow, blaze orange or white or than 18.2 kilograms (40 pounds)
any combination of these colours. and arrowheads of less than 2.2
The vest may include a label or centimetres (7/8 inch) in
crest not exceeding 100 diameter.12
> a crossbow with a draw weight of moose, elk or pronghorn antelope
less than 68 kilograms (150 lbs.). without a seal until March 31 of the
> with a crossbow other than in an year following the harvest date.
open muzzleloader or rifle · leave a big game hide in the field
season. except moose and elk in WMZ 56 to
Note: in the Regina/Moose Jaw, 76.
Saskatoon and Prince Albert WMZs, · place a tree stand or blind on
crossbows are permitted during all provincial forest land, unoccupied
open seasons. Crown land or land within a
· hunt wildlife with a rifle other than a provincial park or recreation site
muzzleloader during a big game without clearly and permanently
season in Regina/Moose Jaw and marking, in a visible location on the
Saskatoon WMZs. tree stand or blind, the person's
Note: licensed trappers may carry name and address, or the outfitter's
and use a .22 (or less) calibre rimfire licence number, and the date the tree
rifle in these areas during a big game stand or blind was erected.
season, provided they are performing · leave a tree stand, blind or any other
"normal trapping operations". structure on provincial forest land,
· fail to properly attach a seal (tag) to unoccupied Crown land or land
a harvested big game animal. within a provincial park or recreation
Note: Tagging procedures after site after July 7, if placed between
harvesting your big game animal: April 7 and June 30 of the same year,
> confirm the animal is safe to or after December 31, if placed
handle. between August 15 and December 19
> select the seal that matches the of the same year.
big game species you have · accompany, hunt with, aid or assist a
harvested. person hunting big game while
> separate the three-part seal hunting coyotes or wild boar.
(marked as meat, hide and · carry or transport a firearm through a
antler/head). game preserve, wildlife refuge,
> cut out or notch the year, month wildlife management unit, regional
and day of harvest on each seal, park, provincial park, protected area
fold in half aligning the pre-cut or recreation site that is closed to
holes. hunting unless the firearm is encased
> using a plastic tie, wire or string and in a vehicle.
inserted through the pre-cut · kill female black bears with young of
holes. the year cubs at heel.
> secure the seal to the antlers or · aid, assist or hunt with people who
head of the animal (ear). are exercising their Aboriginal
> secure the meat seal to the hunting rights unless you possess
carcass (rib cage or tendon on Aboriginal rights or carry a permit to
hind leg). assist.
> secure the hide seal through the Note: Contact your nearest
hide. conservation officer for more
· fail to properly separate the seals as information.
above and notch the date upon Game Bird
harvesting a big game animal. It is a violation to:
· possess an unprocessed big game · hunt upland game birds with a centre
carcass or unprocessed hide without fire rifle.
a seal. · hunt game birds with a shotgun
· possess the head or antlers of a deer, unless the magazine is plugged in13
such a way that it cannot hold more parks or recreation sites and on
than two shells. unoccupied Crown land, no person
· For Canadian and non-resident game shall:
bird hunters: > store any bait at or near any bait
> exceed the season limit for location.
sharp-tailed grouse or gray > hunt at a bait site placed by
(Hungarian) partridge. another person without that
> fail to record the date of kill on a person's consent.
harvest ledger upon taking a > other than the owner, tear down,
sharp-tailed grouse or gray remove, damage, deface or cover
(Hungarian) partridge. up any bait or sign.
> hunt game birds without > use salt or salt products for bait
possessing the harvest ledger unless placed in a leak-proof
that is registered with a game container that is secured in such
bird licence. a way to prevent the contents
> hold more than one game bird from being spilled.
licence. > use as bait: any noxious weed or
· hunt migratory game birds with a noxious weed seed as described
rifle or possess more than one in The Weed Control Act, any
shotgun while hunting game birds. exotic plant as described in The
· hunt game birds within 500 metres Forest Resources Management
of a wildlife feeding station or enter Regulations or any carcass or
any lands posted with lure crop part of a domestic animal other
signs contrary to posted instructions. than domestic animal trimmings
· dig a pit or excavation or leave it received from a licensed butcher
open without the consent of the shop or abattoir.
owner or occupant of the land. > feed wild ungulates between
· use recorded electronic calls other January 1 and July 31.
than snow geese vocalization while > place bait for the hunting of wild
hunting waterfowl. boar.
Baiting Regulations · In the provincial forest, in provincial
· Bait means any food including salt parks or recreation sites and on
and salt products intended to attract unoccupied Crown land, no person
big game, but does not include fields shall place bait including salt and
of crop or forage, whether standing salt products for hunting big game:
or harvested crops, forage or hay > without erecting at the site a
stacked in the field where it is sign of durable material no less
grown, or grain that is scattered or than 600 square centimetres (8 x
piled as a result of farming 12 inches) on which is clearly
operations. marked the person's full name
· On private land or occupied Crown and address, or clearly marking
land, no person shall, without the his/her full name and address
permission of the owner or on any container used for
occupant, place bait, including salt holding the bait.
and salt products, for hunting big > within 500 metres of any
game or feeding or attracting other campground, dwelling or other
wildlife. It is recommended that salt place used by people.
or salt products used for hunting > within 200 metres of any
purposes be placed in a leak-proof numbered provincial highway,
container. provincial road or municipal
· In the provincial forest, in provincial road.14
> within 200 metres of any person hunting big game is allowed
maintained forest access road, to drive off roads or road allowances
snowmobile trail or cross- with trails without written
country ski trail prior to April 1. permission from the landowner,
> prior to August 1, except for except to retrieve legally killed big
hunting black bear during the game animals using the most direct
spring black bear season when route.
bait may be placed on or after · In Regina/Moose Jaw and Saskatoon
March 1. WMZs, no person hunting big game
· For the purpose of hunting black is allowed to drive off roads or road
bear, no person shall: allowances with trails, except to
> use bait that is not placed in a retrieve legally killed big game
container. animals using the most direct route.
> use a container with a volume Note: A vehicle may be operated off
exceeding 210 litres (45 gallon roads and trails with landowner
drum). permission to place or remove bait,
> use a container unless it is stands or trail cameras provided a
constructed in such a way that firearm is not present in the
prevents a bear from becoming vehicle.
trapped. · In Moose Mountain Provincial Park,
> use a container that can be the use of vehicles is restricted to
removed from the bait site by a park roads except to retrieve legally
bear. killed big game animals using the
· For the purpose of hunting big game most direct route.
other than black bear, no person · Vehicles are restricted to designated
shall: roads within Saskatchewan Landing
> use bait, other than bales, that Provincial Park and vehicles may not
exceeds 40 litres in volume (9 leave the road for any purpose.
gallons). Designated Trails – Cypress Hills
> in the case of bales, use more Provincial Park (West Block)
than two bales with a combined · No person shall drive a vehicle off a
total weight exceeding 90 designated trail or provincial
kilograms (198 pounds). highway except to retrieve legally
· A person who has placed bait for the killed big game animals using the
purpose of hunting big game shall most direct route.
remove, at the end of the hunting · Firearms must be encased in vehicles
season for which it was placed, any when driven off designated trails to
remaining bait, the container, the retrieve game.
sign marking the bait, and any · No person shall park more than 10
items brought to the bait site. metres from a designated trail or
· In provincial parks and recreation provincial highway. Trails are
sites, no person shall place bait for marked at the start and end with
hunting big game without the designated trail signs.
authorization of the park manager. All-terrain Vehicles
Note: No person shall place bait for Farmland areas of Saskatchewan
the purpose of hunting big game or · ATVs, snowmobiles and passenger
wild boar on any wildlife lands. vehicles may not be used on wildlife
Vehicle Controls lands for any purpose at any time
Roads and Trails Only with the exception of retrieving
· During an open big game season in legally killed big game animals using
WMZs 15 to 18 and 30 to 34, no the shortest and/or least impacting15
route or under permit in cases of forest roads to protect forest
agricultural or licensed trapping resources and the road itself from
purposes. damage caused by passenger
· In WMZs 1 to 47, 52, 54, Duck vehicles; road closures may be
Mountain and Moose Mountain identified with earth berms, gates
provincial parks, Regina/Moose Jaw, and/or signs.
Saskatoon and Prince Albert WMZs · No passenger vehicles are allowed
and Fort à la Corne WMU, no person behind/beyond forest road closures;
shall carry a firearm (which includes ATVs, snowmobiles, horses and
a bow or crossbow) on an ATV bicycles may be used at your own
during an open big game season (not risk.
including the wolf season) with the · Breaking or cutting trees, or
following exceptions. mowing/damaging other vegetation
> encased firearms may be carried where a road closure is in place is
on ATVs in Duck Mountain not allowed.
Provincial Park and Fort à la · It is a violation to drive unauthorized
Corne WMU during the spring vehicles where a road closure is in
black bear season only. place, or to open, damage or
> a licensed trapper may carry a interfere with a road closure.
rimfire rifle of .22 calibre or less Transporting Big Game or Game
on an ATV while conducting
Birds within the Province
normal trapping operations:
· Hunters transporting big game
Note: ATVs may be used on private
animals during an antlerless or bull-
land with landowner permission for
only season are required to keep
activities related to hunting provided
evidence of species and sex. During
no firearms are carried on the vehicle
the seasons where only bull elk or
with the exception of WMZs with
bull moose may be taken, the antlers
additional vehicle restrictions.
must accompany the animal.
· ATVs may not be used in
· Big game carcasses transported
Saskatchewan Landing and Douglas
separately from hides must have
provincial parks, or any National
either the tail or the lower hind leg
Wildlife Area.
from the hock joint down, attached
Provincial Forest and Forest Fringe Areas
with the hide still in place as proof of
of Saskatchewan
species.
· In WMZs 48 to 50 (not including Fort
· Big game carcasses must be properly
à la Corne WMU), 53 and 55 to 76,
tagged when delivered to a butcher
and in the West Block of Cypress
for cooling, cutting and packaging.
Hills Provincial Park, no person shall
Provided hides are properly tagged
carry a firearm on an ATV during an
and the species identification parts
open season for big game (not
are attached to the carcass, the hides
including the wolf season) unless it
can be kept, sold to hide dealers or
is encased.
left at a Saskatchewan Wildlife
· In Greenwater Lake Provincial Park,
Federation hide depot.
a permit is required for all ATV use,
· Hunters may share an unprocessed
except for retrieving legally killed big
big game carcass with their hunting
game animals using the most direct
partners. A permit is not required to
route. This permit is available from
transport an untagged portion of the
the park administrative office.
carcass if an individual has
Forest Road Closures documentation consisting of the
· Road closures using gates and/or successful hunter's name, signature,
earth berms are put in place on some and licence number, species of game16
and date of harvest. The individual permit from another province or
possessing the unprocessed meat country constitutes the authority to
must have this information readily a Saskatchewan resident to import
available to provide to a conservation the wildlife in question.
officer. · A Convention on the International
· When transporting pheasants, Trade in Endangered Species (CITES)
evidence of sex must accompany the Permit is required to export black
bird. If the bird is plucked and bears out of Canada. Hunters from
dressed in the field, leave the head the United States accompanying their
attached to the carcass. properly tagged black bears (raw and
· No person can possess or transport a untanned) are exempt; however, a
migratory game bird unless at least CITES permit is required for tanned
one fully feathered wing remains or processed pelts.
attached to the bird. · Sandhill crane hunters: a CITES
Exporting Big Game or Game permit is not required if you are a
Birds U.S. resident returning home at the
· Legally tagged big game may be conclusion of your hunt, provided
taken out of the province without an the cranes are part of your personal
export permit as long as the licence baggage and are in a fresh, frozen or
holder travels with the game. salted condition. Your Saskatchewan
· Hunters may take the cape of a big game bird licence, Habitat Certificate
game animal out of the province and Federal Migratory Game Bird
without a hide seal being attached, if Permit must be presented at the
both the cape and the antlers border, as required.
(attached to the skull plate with · Your game bird licence and
attached seal) travel with the licence associated ledger is also a permit to
holder. export legal limits of game birds,
· Legally tagged raw big game hides providing you accompany them in
may be exported if a big game hide transit.
seal is attached to the hide. · No person shall transport or ship
· Any wildlife or wildlife parts not migratory birds belonging to another
accompanying the licensed hunter, or person into the United States.
wildlife not taken under authority of · No person can possess or transport a
a hunting licence, including antlers, migratory game bird unless at least
claws or skulls, require an export one fully feathered wing remains
permit to be taken out of the attached to the bird.
province. Permits are available at all · If the legal limit of migratory birds
ministry offices. you have taken accompanies you in a
· Packages for shipping wildlife within private vehicle, labelling is not
or outside the province must be required.
marked with the sender's name, · Packages containing upland game
address, hunting licence or permit birds do not require labels if they
number and contents. accompany the licensed hunter in
· No person, other than a transit. If you ship them, packages or
Saskatchewan resident, shall import containers containing upland game
wildlife into Saskatchewan from birds must be marked with your
another province or country, under name and address, your
the authority of a game licence, Saskatchewan game bird licence
without first obtaining an import number and a statement of the
permit from a Ministry of contents.
Environment office. An export · All game birds must be packaged in17
a manner that will permit the number allowed on wildlife lands under the
and species to be readily determined; following conditions:
no bulk packaging or bulk freezing is > stands must be marked with the
allowed. person's name, address and date
Private Land Considerations on which the stand was placed
· Approximately 85 per cent of the land on wildlife lands.
in southern Saskatchewan is privately > stands must be removed at the
owned or controlled. end of legal hunting time on the
· Always obtain landowner permission day it was placed.
prior to hunting on any private lands. Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation, Ducks
· Signs which limit vehicle use on Unlimited Canada and the Nature
private or leased lands must be Conservancy of Canada Lands
respected. · Hunting may be permitted on lands
· Signs advising “Hunt on Foot Only” as per posted instructions.
or “Vehicles Restricted to Roads and · Hunters are required to follow posted
Trails Only” are available free of instructions (e.g. hunt on foot only).
charge to landowners from ministry · Contact the responsible agency for
offices. further information.
· To further assist landowners, signs National Wildlife Areas (NWA)
notifying hunters to “Please Close · Are open to hunting unless posted as
this Gate”, “Seeded Field”, “Hunt on “No Hunting”.
Foot Only” and “Occupied Building · Last Mountain Lake, Stalwart, Webb,
within 500 Metres” are also available Prairie, Bradwell and Tway national
at ministry offices. wildlife areas are open to all hunting
· Hunters failing to observe posted with exception that sandhill cranes
instructions could face charges under may not be hunted in Last Mountain
The Wildlife Act. Lake NWA.
Special Lands Provisions · Hunt on foot only, vehicles may not
Fish and Wildlife Development Fund be driven off or beyond roads and
Lands (Wildlife Lands) designated trails. Vehicles may not
· Are open to hunting on foot only. leave the road for any purpose.
· No person can operate or be a · For information on these areas and
passenger in any vehicle (includes a restrictions applying to them, contact
passenger vehicle, ATV or the Canadian Wildlife Service at
snowmobile) for any purpose except: 306-975-4087.
> to retrieve legally killed big game Canadian Forces Base Dundurn, National
or wild boar using the shortest Parks, Wildlife Refuges, Migratory Bird
and/or least impacting route. Sanctuaries, Cold Lake Air Weapons
> if a passenger vehicle is being Range, Game Preserves and Road
used to retrieve legally killed big Corridor Game Preserves
game or wild boar then all · Are closed to all hunting.
firearms must be encased. Provincial Parks, Regional Parks and
> under the authority of a vehicle Recreation Sites
use permit for agriculture or other · Are closed to all hunting unless
approved purposes. otherwise specified in the season
> walk-in camping will be allowed dates tables.
provided vehicles are left off of · Specific vehicle regulations may
the FWDF property. apply. See ATV regulations on page
· No baiting for the purposes of 14.
hunting is allowed. Wildlife Management Units (WMU)
· Hunting stands and tree stands are · Many WMUs are community pastures18
and are also subject to the conditions · All AAFC, SPP and POP pastures are
outlined in the community pasture open to hunting as follows:
section in this guide. > WMZs 1 to 47 - November 1;
· Fort à La Corne WMU is closed to > WMZs 54 - November 10; and
hunting unless otherwise specified. > WMZs 48 to 50, 52, 53, 55 and
· All remaining WMUs are included in 68N - November 15
the WMZ that surrounds them and · Portions of some pastures may
are open for hunting during the times remain closed beyond these dates if
specified in the open season tables. livestock are still at large or field
Road Corridor Game Preserves (RCGP) operations are occurring.
· All Road Corridor Game Preserves are · Some pastures may open to hunting
shown on the WMZ map and prior to these dates but hunters must
identified with signage. contact the pasture manager to
· All hunting is prohibited within 400 confirm this prior to entering the
metres from the centerline of a road pasture.
within a RCGP. · Vehicles are restricted to roads and
· While traveling through a RCGP all trails; however, special access
firearms must be encased. conditions may be in place for select
· Licensed hunters in a RCGP may pastures.
carry unloaded firearms from a · Contact the pasture manager for
vehicle to the edge of the game access and trail information.
preserve by the most direct route and · No fires are allowed.
return in the same manner. · Visit agr.gc.ca/cpp for further
Northern Communities information regarding hunting on
· Excluding any privately-owned land, AAFC pastures.
only residents of the following · Visit
communities may hunt big game saskatchewan.ca/business/agricultur
within a 16 kilometre (10 mile) radius e-natural-resources-and-
of their community: Beauval, Black industry/agribusiness-farmers-and-
Lake, Buffalo Narrows, Camsell ranchers/crown-lands/saskatchewan-
Portage, Cree Lake, Deschambault, pastures-program for further
Dillon, Fond du Lac, Ile-á-la-Crosse, information regarding hunting on SPP
Kinoosao, La Loche, La Ronge, pastures.
Patuanak, Pelican Narrows, · Visit
Pinehouse, Primeau Lake, Sandy Bay, saskatchewan.ca/business/agricultur
Southend, Stanley Mission, Stony e-natural-resources-and-
Rapids, Turnor Lake and Wollaston. industry/agribusiness-farmers-and-
Indian Reserves ranchers/crown-lands for further
· Are closed to licensed hunting unless information regarding hunting on
permission is granted by the Chief or POP pastures.
Band Council.
Community Pastures
· There are three types of community Landowner permission
pastures in Saskatchewan:
> Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada is now required before
(AAFC, formerly PFRA). setting out trail cameras,
> Saskatchewan Provincial Pastures
(SPP).
tree stands or blinds on
> Patron Operated Pastures (POP) private land.
former AAFC pastures leased to
patron groups.19
Saskatchewan Resident
Draw Seasons
Hunting is allowed in wildlife management units (WMU) and national wildlife areas that are within a
wildlife management zone (WMZ) that is listed as being open for big game. The exception is Fort à La
Corne WMU and the St. Denis National Wildlife Research Area. Only provincial parks and recreation
sites listed below are open to hunting. See Special Lands Provisions (page 17) for more information.
New season dates are indicated in bold and red. To view the 2018 draw quoatas, see the online
Big Game Draw Supplement.
Draw Moose - Saskatchewan Residents Only
Wildlife Management Zones Open Season Dates Bag Limit
WMZs 1, 2E, 2W, 4 and 5 archery, one moose,
Combined WMZs 8 and 11 (Designate WMZ 8) muzzleloader, either-sex
WMZs 9, 10, 12 crossbow,
WMZ 13 including that portion of Saskatchewan Landing shotgun and rifle
Provincial Park south of the South Saskatchewan River Oct. 15 -Oct. 31
WMZ 14E including that portion of Saskatchewan Landing
Provincial Park north of the South Saskatchewan River
WMZs 14W, 16, 17, 18, 19, 21 and 22
WMZ 23 including that portion of Douglas Provincial Park
located west of Diefenbaker Lake (Gordon McKenzie Arm)
WMZs 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 31 and 32
Combined WMZs 6 and 7E (Designate WMZ 6) archery, one moose,
WMZ 30 muzzleloader, either-sex
WMZ 33 including Moose Mountain Provincial Park crossbow,
WMZs 34, 35 and 36 shotgun and rifle
WMZ 37 excluding Duck Mountain Provincial Park (Designate Oct. 1 - Oct. 14
WMZ 37) and
WMZs 38, 39, 40, 41, 42E, 42W and 43 not including Fort à la Nov. 1 - Nov. 14
Corne WMU
WMZs 44, 45E, 45W, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 52, 53 and 54
WMZ 56 including Round Lake Recreation Site
WMZ 57 including Woody River Recreation Site
WMZ 58
WMZ 59 including Wildcat Hill Provincial Park
WMZs 60, 61 and 62
WMZ 63 including the southern portion of Narrow Hills
Provincial Park
WMZ 64 including Great Blue Heron, the southern portion of
Clarence-Steepbank Lakes and a portion of Narrow Hills
provincial parks
WMZ 65 including the northern portion of both Clarence-
Steepbank Lakes and Narrow Hills provincial parks
WMZs 66, 67 and 68S
Greenwater Lake Provincial Park (Designate WMZ GP)
Fort à la Corne Wildlife Management Unit (Designate WMZ FLC)
Saskatoon Wildlife Management Zone (Designate WMZ SMZ) archery, one moose,
muzzleloader, either-sex
crossbow and
shotgun
Oct. 1 - Oct. 14
and
Nov. 1 - Nov. 1420
Saskatchewan Resident Draw Seasons
..... Draw Moose - Saskatchewan Residents Only (cont’d)
Wildlife Management Zones Open Season Dates Bag Limit
Regina/Moose Jaw Wildlife Management Zone (Designate archery, one moose,
WMZ RMZ) muzzleloader, either-sex
crossbow and
shotgun
Oct. 15 - Oct. 31
Prince Albert Wildlife Management Zone (Designate WMZ PMZ) archery and one moose,
crossbow either-sex
Oct. 1 - Oct. 14
and
Nov. 1 - Nov. 14
WMZ 1 (Designate WMZ 1A) | WMZ 4 (Designate WMZ 4A) archery, one
WMZ 13 (Designate WMZ 13A) including that portion of muzzleloader, antlerless
Saskatchewan Landing Provincial Park south of the South crossbow, moose
Saskatchewan River (Designate WMZ 13A) shotgun and rifle
WMZ 14E (Designate WMZ 14EA) including that portion of Nov. 1 - Nov. 14
Saskatchewan Landing Provincial Park north of the South
Saskatchewan River (Designate WMZ 14EA)
WMZ 14W (Designate WMZ 14WA) | WMZ 16 (Designate
WMZ 16A)
WMZ 17 (Designate WMZ 17A) | WMZ 18 (Designate WMZ 18A)
WMZ 19 (Designate WMZ 19A) | WMZ 21 (Designate WMZ 21A)
WMZ 22 (Designate WMZ 22A)
WMZ 23 including that portion of Douglas Provincial Park
located west of Diefenbaker Lake (Gordon McKenzie Arm)
(Designate WMZ 23A)
WMZ 24 (Designate WMZ 24A) | WMZ 25 (Designate WMZ 25A)
WMZ 26 (Designate WMZ 26A) | WMZ 27 (Designate WMZ 27A)
WMZ 28 (Designate WMZ 28A) | WMZ 29 (Designate WMZ 29A)
WMZ 31 (Designate WMZ 31A) | WMZ 32 (Designate WMZ 32A)
WMZ 30 (Designate WMZ 30A) archery, one
WMZ 33 including Moose Mountain Provincial Park (Designate muzzleloader, antlerless
WMZ 33A) crossbow, moose
WMZ 34 (Designate WMZ 34A) | WMZ 35 (Designate WMZ 35A) shotgun and
WMZ 36 (Designate WMZ 36A) rifle
WMZ 37 excluding Duck Mountain Provincial Park (Designate Oct. 15 - Nov. 14
WMZ 37A)
WMZ 38 (Designate WMZ 38A) | WMZ 39 (Designate WMZ 39A)
WMZ 40 (Designate WMZ 40A) | WMZ 41 (Designate WMZ 41A)
WMZ 42E (Designate WMZ 42EA) | WMZ 42W (Designate
WMZ 42WA)
WMZ 43 not including Fort à la Corne WMU (Designate
WMZ 43A)
WMZ 44 (Designate WMZ 44A) | WMZ 45E (Designate WMZ 45EA)
WMZ 45W (Designate WMZ 45WA) | WMZ 46 (Designate
WMZ 46A)
WMZ 47 (Designate WMZ 47A)
Saskatoon Wildlife Management Zone (Designate WMZ SMZA) archery, one
muzzleloader, antlerless
crossbow and moose
shotgun
Oct. 15 - Nov. 14You can also read
