1 minute read
Natural Gear
PinkOutdoors.com PinkOutdoors.com A $ FOR BILL
by Keli Van Cleave
Advertisement
One of the biggest thrills about hunting (besides harvesting a big trophy) is the ability to detach from your daily routine and feel at one with nature. But heading off into the woods with nothing but yourself, your gear and of course, your hunting license, might leave you feeling out of touch with everyone and everything around you. Therefore, most hunters today will bring a Smartphone. Your phone will allow you to keep track of your GPS locations, get up-tothe-minute details on optimal hunting times, take pictures, log hunting observations, and make a call for help if necessary.
In February, the Smartphone capabilities will arise for debate with the highly discussed Bill which includes language that reads, “No person shall provide to a hunter for remuneration the location information of any previously scouted big or trophy game animal for the purpose of aiding the hunter in the taking of the big or trophy game animal.” The bill defines “location information” as either GPS coordinates or a map, drawing, illustration, or another document which shows the animal’s location.
The language written in this bill states this would not apply to licensed outfitting or professional guide services. It would also not apply to governmental agencies performing lawful duties. The punishment for a violation of the proposed statute could include up to a $10,000 fine and one year in state prison.
It’s sad that the advancements of technology have put us at this point. This season my Father-In-Law at the young age of 76 harvested another fantastic mule deer and we took his picture with his smartphone so he could use it as his background photo. Ironically, he doesn’t even know how to post pictures on social media. This Bill will not be a factor for our Bill!
Happy Birthday Wild Bill~
