Season eagerly awaited

Press, 10 April 1980, Page 16

Season eagerly awaited

The game season, short as it is, has been eagerly awaited by thousands of sportsmen and women for whom it provides the only practical application of skills acquired on . trapshooting ranges. Many keen shooters will have already been out in the field preparing maimais, or the hides which provide shooting cover. Pegging of stands has been allowed since last Saturday in preparation for an early season. Acclimatisation Society licenses are imperative for any person who wishes to shoot game, regardless of age or sex, and this year cost $12.00 for adults and $3.00 for children. Covered in the license are grey, ■shoveler and mallard duck, pukeko and paradise duck, from April 19 until June 29; Canada goose. California quail, cock pheasant and chukor during seasons set out in the license. Intending shooters are reminded of the rules of courtesy and common sense which make for a pleasant, safe season.

Access rights are always a contentious issue at this time of year. It should be remembered that any entry onto private land is trespass unless the hunter has the explicit permission of the landowner. If the right of access is in question, •proof can be obtained from cadastral maps held by the Lands and Survey Department. These show all rights-of-way and unformed roads and enlargements of relevant sections and may be purchased for $l.OO. Drinking creates irresponsible attitudes with firearms. The hunter loses his ability to distinguish species and may kill protected birds. Drinking can also lead to carelessness

and cause accidents. A far better idea than a hip-flask is a thermos of coffee or soup. A good hunter identifies his target before firing and ensures that the bird is within reasonable distance to be killed clearly. North Canterbury has the worst record in the country for wounding birds. Keep guns and gear clean and in a safe condition. A barrel which has

mud inside it is extremely dangerous. Be careful not to antagonise or encroach upon the rights of other shooters. Never assume rights which have not been given. Observe bag limits and season rules and never shoot in wildlife reserves, refuges or sanctuaries. No matter how frustrating your day has been, refrain from shooting at

signs, posts or other private property. It is illegal to shoot from a moving vehicle or vessel, or from a public highway, or in a populated area. Y.our license fee is needed by the Acclimatisation Society to fund its many obligations. The Society manages and safeguards your game — help them to improve your sport.