About to become a hunter

OK after many years of procrastinating mainly because I was not sure where I will hunt ...I finally decided to start the ball rolling...and when I decide for sure about something I want it NOW;)
So I managed to find a place to do the two courses THIS weekend paid the deposit and if all goes by plan should be done with that first step by Sunday night (Canadian Firearms Safety Course and Ontario Hunter Education Course). Done tons of fishing for ages but haven't hunted...figured it should be as much or even more fun than fishing ha ha
Anyhow...since I am starting from scratch I though I should post here for the first time and ask for advice and info...

- How can I speed up the process as fast as possible?
- what will happen procedure wise after Sunday night?
- When is the earliest I can start hunting?
- What can I hunt for (I live west of GTA but have no issues traveling if need be)?
- Should I start now or wait until next year?
- What gun should I buy and from where?
- How do I find quickly places to hunt?
- What additional hunting equipment do I need to buy and from where so it doesn't cost me an arm and a leg to start?
- I hear I may have missed the boat on this year's deer season (tags, etc.). Can I maybe go with someone who already has tags? If so when is the earliest I can do so?
- Any other thing I have missed to ask but should know....please feel free to add to the list of questions.

Appreciate all answers...

Thanks,
Ice Fisherman

You have a lifetime of good times, frustration, good weather, bad weather, nasty weather, and of coarse success ahead of you.
Slow down, enjoy the ride.

Some of your questions will be addressed during the courses.
Once you have an idea of what you want to hunt, you can narrow down your list of questions and focus on one thing at a time. If you try and do it all, or even half, you will end up spinning wheels and go broke in the process.

Use this year, to plan for next fall and to start acquiring a few things specific to what you want to try first that will enable you go out safely next fall.

After the weekend decide what you want to try first.
Deer
Moose
Upland
Waterfowl

For each of those there are numerous ways to hunt each of them, and each has some specific needs and some over lapping needs. Start acquiring the things that overlap, starting with a good pair of boots and clothing you can wear in different conditions/environments, and so on.

My personal bias is spend where you have to, save where you can. What you wear will keep you warm and comfortable and worst case, safe. Start there, a nice rifle, Bow, Shot Gun does you no good if your staying home or going home early because its cold and wet.

When January hits, start buying some stuff because thats when the sales will start and more used equipment will come up for sale as well.

JBen,

thank you for the kind comments and encouragement. I know I am a bit impatient ha ha...understandably so;)
I guess first things first though....someone mentioned in another post that there are ways to speed up obtaining the PAL license...Couldn't find specifically how? maybe someone can share? Don't want to waste time for paperwork and formalities after Sunday night ;-) Already got the CFSC book and read it in preparation for the course on the weekend.
Anyhow...would appreciate any other input from what I can see is quite a knowledgeable hunting membership here.

Cheers,
Ice Fisherman

Congrats on your decision. To answer a couple of your questions.....

1st Off - Take your time in acquiring gear. Don't go crazy buying everything that looks cool, or you will have a closet full of stuff you never use.

Where to hunt..... a thread that was posted here by a new member a day or 2 ago.... County ,Conservation, Crown Properties. (http://www.oodmag.com/community/show...ghlight=County)

As for when you can start.... Once you write your exam, you can take your paperwork to the MNR and get a hunting licence immediately, but it will be some time before you have your PAL and are able to acquire or possess a gun.

If you want to start deer hunting this year it is not too late. IMHO, your best option is to get a crossbow and a good target. You don't need a PAL, and they are relatively quick and easy to learn and use. You can still buy a Buck tag, anytime up till December 31st, and in some areas you can buy an additional tag that is good for a Doe too.

Good Luck

When you go ice fishing to a remote lake do you watch the sides of the trail on the way in? Do you sit so you can face the shore and see what is moving around? What about the birds overhead, are they hawks or crows? If you are doing all these, then you are already hunting! You just might want to refine your actions and be able to shoot a rabbit beside the trail, or learn how a deer feeds along the lakeshore etc.
Keep your eyes open and your mind in gear for what is happening around you. This is the joy of hunting. If you are lucky then you will also bring home some meat.:o

You can call to have your PAL rushed through the issuing process... helps if you can convince them you require it for work. Even rushed though, it's unlikely you'd have it in time for this whitetail firearm season.

I'd echo HuntCamp'r's suggestion of a good crossbow. A good quality one with good quality bolts/heads and sufficient practice is usually lethal on most ON game up to 50 yards. That's the distance most whitetails are shot with guns anyways. Just remember the PRACTICE part.

It also allows you to go after wild turkey, bear, moose without having to worry about numerous firearms. Just about the only things you couldn't use it for would be grouse and coyote.

Congrats on your decision - did the same thing myself. Like you , once I decided I wanted to hunt, I wanted everything to be done right away. Unfortunately it takes a bit of time to get all the courses, licensing, paperwork, etc... done. I did my firearms safety course in mid-July, and sent my PAL application (http://www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/cfp-pcaf/f.../index-eng.htm) by courier the next day. I sent the application before receiving my stamped test results back from the firearms office. Once the test results came back to me (about 2 weeks later), I called the RCMP and asked for a fax number, sent the results, then called again to confirm they received everything. My PAL came on in mid-September, which seemed like forever, but was really not that bad(I did my hunter ed. in August).

I'd heard that sending in the PAL application before the test results came back and calling the RCMP every couple of weeks speeds up the process, but I'm not sure if it made much of a difference. There is a page on RCMP website that you can check on the status of your application, but I couldn't get it to work, so I used the old one: https://secure.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/eCFISI...dvD!1255071094

Cheers,

I've posted this a few times, here is the process to shorten PAL approval times.


It is possible to shorten the time typically required for PAL approval. Even if you are not in a hurry, you should monitor your application. Waits of 4 and 5 months have been reported in other threads.

Once you have mailed in your PAL application (either first time or renewal), you can log into the CFC (Canada Firearms Centre) website to check your application status:
http://www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/cfp-pcaf/o...pp_dem-eng.htm
It will not usually appear online for about two weeks after receipt by CFC.

One way to shorten this period is to send your application registered mail (with receipt required) so that you know when it is delivered to CFC in Miramichi.
Following receipt by CFC, (and before it appears online), you can phone the CFC to confirm delivery. It usually appears online the next day.

The telephone number for the CFC line is 1-800-731-4000.
Although located in New Brunswick, the office hours are 9:00 to 5:00 in your time zone.

By the way, if you call the CFC line, as you work your way through the options, you are advised that you should wait 45 days before making any inquiries. Don't pay attention to that if you want to move your application along.

There is another part of the message that says there may be a delay if some info is missing but "be assured you will be contacted by CFC staff". That is complete bs, they will not contact you and ask for the missing info. They will send you a form letter advising you to call in or your application will be cancelled; it won't tell you what info they require. That will add two weeks to your wait, because that is how long it will take them to get the form letter issued.

If you are a first time applicant and face a 28 day waiting period this does not mean that you need to wait 28 days before making any inquiries. Processing can occur during the 28 day period so that on day 28 final approval can be granted.

The 28 day waiting period starts from the date the application is received by the CFC, not the date it appears online. (Staff at CFC may advise it is the online date but this information is wrong.) The 28 day wait provision is statutory, it is specified in the Regulations to the Firearms Act. The time starts from date the application is made, and that is the date received by CFC (not the date mailed) and this is the practice the CFC follows, however not all clerks understand this.

If you are renewing a PAL or "upgrading" from a POL or a PAL there is no 28 day waiting period.

Once it is online the application will show up as in the "processing" stage, which means it is sitting until someone at CFC reviews the application looking for missing information. When that phase is complete it is listed online as "in progress" which means in a queue for someone to contact the applicant and references.

The reason you want to get your app. online and into the processing stage is that until you do that it is just sitting in a pile somewhere, yes the clock has started for the 28 day period but nothing is being done with your application. Better to get it into the system.

If any information is missing your application gets put in another queue and sits until someone mails you a standard form letter that indicates you must contact CFC by a certain date or your application will be dropped. The process of sending this letter out can take 10 days plus another 4 or 5 for it to be delivered if you live in the west.

If you haven't been contacted by CFC after a few days into the processing stage, give them a call and inquire if there are any deficiencies or missing information. If there is a missed question you can provide that missing information to them over the phone. They may then offer to transfer you to have an interview conducted on the spot. Again, you need to ignore the message that tells you not to check on the status of your application until 30 days have elapsed.

Once your phone interview is done, ask them for your file number and then have your references call in (toll free 1-800-731-4000) with that file number to do their interviews.

If you are applying for a non-restricted PAL you and your references may not have phone interviews, but if you want a restricted PAL both you and your references will be interviewed.

After all the information is confirmed and interviews are complete the appropriate provincial CFO is responsible for actual approval.

[If you live in Alberta you can call the CFO office immediately (same toll free number as CFC) and inquire about the status and there is a good chance they will approve it over the phone. Alberta CFO does not take calls on Wednesdays, that is processing day so plan around that if you can.]

[For Ontario residents: you can send in your application before you get your stamped CFSC firearms course results back from the Ontario CFO and get the 28 day waiting period started earlier than if you wait and attach the results to the application. Questions 20(a) and (b) each have a box to check if the exam results are enclosed, so you would just leave that blank. Probably also worthwhile to include a note that exam results will follow. The 28 day clock starts once the application is received by CFC. If you wait until you get your 'stamped' safety course report(s) back you have added that to your waiting period, and it is often about 6 weeks.]

Once your application is approved by your provincial CFO the CFC will print the licence and mail it to you. Normally Friday is the day that all printing and mailing is done. If you check online and see the message:
"Current Status: Your application has been processed and your licence has been issued. If you have not received your licence within 2 weeks please contact the Canada Firearms Centre Toll Free number. (1-800 731-4000)" then congratulations.
Depending on the day it is approved there may be a delay until it is printed and the mail system means it can take another week to arrive.

In the meantime you can contact your provincial CFO and ask for your PAL number. Even the Ontario CFO gives out this information.

Other info:
Send in an original signed application, not a photocopy.
Use Form CAFC 979 for a renewal of a PAL or POL.
Use Form CAFC 921 for a new PAL or if your PAL has expired.
Form 921 requires exam results and two references which form 979 does not require, so make sure you renew with Form 979 well before your PAL expires.

If you have lived with a conjugal partner for a year or more they should also sign the application as a spouse, if they don't they will be contacted by CFC to see if there are any concerns and this will delay the approval process.

Finally, if you are applying for a restricted PAL tell your references why you are doing so, namely target shooting since Canada does not permit carrying restricted firearms for self-defense except for very limited cases. There have been some recent interviews where the reference has been asked to speculate why the applicant is applying for an restricted PAL and whether or not it is for self-defense, so best to have your reference prepared to answer such speculative questions correctly.

How do we get the above post made into a STICKY ? Great info

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Originally Posted by icefisherman

- How can I speed up the process as fast as possible?

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TurkeyRookie has dealt with this the best so I'll skip it.

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Originally Posted by icefisherman

- what will happen procedure wise after Sunday night?

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Take the paperwork confirming your completion of BOTH courses down to the nearest MNR office and get yourself a temporary H1 version outdoors card. While you're there, you can buy licenses for whatever you want to hunt this year.

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Originally Posted by icefisherman

- When is the earliest I can start hunting?

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If you get a crossbow, you can start hunting with it immediately after doing what I said above. If you want to hunt with guns, well... technically you can do so as soon as you have that H1 card and hunting license, but only using somoene else's gun while under their direct supervision; there are limited opportunities for that in real-life hunting scenarios, so gun hunting may have to wait until your PAL comes in the mail and you've done some gun shopping.

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Originally Posted by icefisherman

- What can I hunt for (I live west of GTA but have no issues traveling if need be)?

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Whatever you're invited on a hunt for, whatever you're offered property access to hunt on, whatever you've located tracks of on huntable public land, or whatever makes your heart beat and your stomach rumble. Although for turkey you need another course. Don't go on a big game hunt without thinking through the logistics, ie what are you gonna do with the beast once its down. You don't even need to leave the 905/519 for anything except moose, elk and bear (there are even huntable bears with 519 phone numbers on the Bruce).

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Originally Posted by icefisherman

- Should I start now or wait until next year?

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Depends on opportunities I guess. You might find that between waiting for the PAL, shopping for firearms, and doing your research, this year's coming to an end; on the other hand if someone invites you on a hunt and you've already got what you need, go for it. Also remember that depending where you are, some animals have seasons that continue past the end of December (eg rabbits, grouse, waterfowl), so you can hunt them after Jan 1 on a 2014 small-game license.

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Originally Posted by icefisherman

- What gun should I buy and from where?

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Totally depends what you're interested in hunting obviously. One school of thought is, just get a 12 ga shotgun, you can use it for anything. I'm not really into that line of thinking, because while it CAN be used for anything, it's not optimal for everything, especially if you're trying to use one gun for all species... you could end up buying all sorts of specialized barrels and sights and stuff for your one shotgun. Another common approach is to buy one shotgun, one centrefire rifle and one rimfire rifle (oh, and a crossbow). That's the approach I took, and I went for inexpensive models from reputable names (to whit a Remington 870 Express in 12 ga, a Savage Axis in .30-06, and a Savage Mark II in .22 LR). No sense in investing a fortune in your first guns, before you've figured out what's best for you.

But if you tell us what/where you're most interested in hunting, people on this forum will have TONS of gun suggestions.

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Originally Posted by icefisherman

- How do I find quickly places to hunt?

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Look into the rules on public lands you know of. Some provincial parks, county forests, etc allow hunting while others don't. Provincial Wildlife Management Areas always allow hunting, but some have special rules while others don't. Crown land with no special designation is huntable, but hard to come by west of the GTA. Access to private property for hunting can be a godsend, especially in areas where huntable public land is in short supply and high demand. To this end, DO NOT keep your new hobby a secret! Bring it up casually in conversation. Even if none of your friends hunt, you never know who might have a sister in the country whose garden is overrun with rabbits, an uncle looking for new blood at moose camp, or a farmer neighbour who lets hunters use his field if they ask politely.

And don't be afraid to politely ask those farmers, even if you don't have a lead.

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Originally Posted by icefisherman

- What additional hunting equipment do I need to buy and from where so it doesn't cost me an arm and a leg to start?

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Aside from firearms and ammo? A blaze orange hat and vest, a flashlight, some string/rope and a small, sharp knife. Everything else depends on what you're hunting and how much you like shopping, and for the most part it's not as necessary.

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Originally Posted by icefisherman

- I hear I may have missed the boat on this year's deer season (tags, etc.). Can I maybe go with someone who already has tags? If so when is the earliest I can do so?

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Once you have your H1 outdoors card you can buy a deer license. The license will come with a tag that can be used on a buck, anywhere in the province. You can also use your deer license to party hunt with someone and share tags with them (for example they may have an either-sex tag for a certain WMU). Some WMUs might even have "additional tags" available for purchase after you have your first tag, which may be for bucks, does or both. So yes you can hunt deer this year if you get it organized, of course you'll be limited to crossbow unless you get your PAL and buy your gun in time for gun season. The one thing you're too late for is deer hunting in a controlled hunt.

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Originally Posted by icefisherman

- Any other thing I have missed to ask but should know....please feel free to add to the list of questions.

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That's what the course is for :)

Oh, and one comment about crossbows:

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Originally Posted by Oddmott

Just about the only things you couldn't use it for would be grouse and coyote.

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Actually, the only thing you legally couldn't use a crossbow for is migratory birds, just because their regs are set by the feds who don't happen to include crossbows as an acceptable form of archery hunting (they only allow shotguns and longbows, I believe). Coyotes are occasionally taken with crossbows, though getting that close to one usually happens by accident, and there are specially designed arrowheads for things like grouse (mostly for up north where grouse are less skittish and more likely to hold still while you aim). Deer are the most popular target for crossbows because most of southern/central Ontario has a HUGE difference between the rifle and archery season length (one or two weeks, vs 3 months), followed by moose because some WMUs up north do have an archery season before the gun season. After that probably bears, because although there's no archery-only season for them, they are often hunted in ways that are compatible with crossbows/bows (over bait, from treestands etc).

Going to chip in a bit on guns at the moment, I may put some more in later on the other topics.

Every Ontario hunter should own minimum three guns

a .22LR (long rifle) rifle. This your small game, and "fun" gun. Ammo is literally pennies, so you can shoot lots, and often. It has no recoil. You can hunt all the assortment of small game (excluding waterfowl) with it. It is a great gun for just shooting. The fundamentals of shooting can be learned and refined at low expense then applied to your large calibre rifle when hunting large game.

a 12 gauge shotgun. This is the jack of all trades of the gun world. You can hunt small game, upland birds, and waterfowl using shot (pellets) or large game with a slug (you'll learn about these in the course). I would recommend you start out with a newer made gun with interchangeable chokes, and possibly one with changeable barrels (that is secondary). Changeable barrels woul refer to installing a rifled slug barrel, which increases the effective range and accuracy of a shotgun slug. This is important in southern ON (roughly a line from Ottawa to Barrie to Windsor) where you cannot hunt deer with a rifle due to legal restrictions applied by the Ministry of Natural Resources.

Finally, your big game rifle. Pick one that you like best in one of these three calibres. 270 Winchester, 308 Winchester, or 3006 Springfield. These three calibres offer roughly the same performance, with ammunition of roughly the same price and availability. You cant hunt any animal in North America with these three. The differences between the three are pretty academic on ranges that most in Ontario shoot big game (less then 200 meters). The good thing about rifles is that they dont wear out or go outdated (with normal use). Used rifles can be had for substantially lower cost then new ones. if they have been looked after they will be more then good enough for you to hunt with.

If you do your research, and can cut a few corners, the three above can be had for under $1000 (total). I realize thats a great expense, but its the minimum I would recommend. You obviously dont need all at once, I would try and get your 22lr and 12g soon and leave your large cal rifle until you are planning a moose, bear, or deer hunt in northern Ontario.

Gentlemen,

One big THANK YOU to all who replied...what a wealth of info and wiliness to share, waoooo...very impressive...learned so much by reading (several times) your kind replies.
Will make sure to follow the steps as described by TurkeyRookie .
Hope it works and cuts down my waiting time...

Have a question about this paragraph below:

Quote:

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Originally Posted by tweedwolfscream

Once you have your H1 outdoors card you can buy a deer license. The license will come with a tag that can be used on a buck, anywhere in the province. You can also use your deer license to party hunt with someone and share tags with them (for example they may have an either-sex tag for a certain WMU). Some WMUs might even have "additional tags" available for purchase after you have your first tag, which may be for bucks, does or both. So yes you can hunt deer this year if you get it organized, of course you'll be limited to crossbow unless you get your PAL and buy your gun in time for gun season. The one thing you're too late for is deer hunting in a controlled hunt.

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If I understand correctly on Monday morning I can have H1 hunting license AND also buy deer license at the same time. Both at the same place....i.e. closest MNR office?? I can use it ANYWHERE in ON but only with BOW and only for BUCK?

How will I know if any WMU has extra available is there central database to find out what WMU has some available?

And last question - what would be the latest possible date I can get my PAL and am still able to do gun deer hunt this year?

Apologize if some of my questions are naive or stupid...trying to absorb huge amount of info in super short period of time ;-)

Again greatly appreciate every single word you guys share.

Cheers,
Ice Fisherman

And one question about the gun....
it seems the first gun to start with will be 12 gauge shotgun...after some more reading tonight some older posts looks like most people recommend either Moosberg 500 triple combo or Remington 870 triple combo within aprox. same price range...I like the flexibility of having the extra barrels and price is within my range. I guess the 870 triple combo comes in two variations - Express and Wingmaster?

Which of the three models should I go with? And where can I get good deal on them?

Cheers,
Ice Fisherman

I guess one priority is getting a lock gun cabinet.
Any idea where I can find a good deal on one...used one can work too.

Cheers,
Ice Fisherman

The 870 Wingmaster is a quality gun you'll be passing down to your children. The Express, not so much. Its in the fit and finish. Ive owned both. And dont worry about getting a 3.5" chamber. They dont do anything a 3" gun will do except hurt the shoulder and wallet. As for storage, a trigger lock is all thats legally required for a non-restricted firearm. That will buy you time to wait out for a good deal on a cabinet. Usually Canadian Tire puts them on sale several times a year for 30-50% off.

If Remington offers a two barrel combo with a rifled barrel and a 28" field barrel thats what I'd go with. A short "turkey" barrel is a luxury and not a requirement at all. You can save a few bucks there.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by icefisherman

And one question about the gun....
it seems the first gun to start with will be 12 gauge shotgun...after some more reading tonight some older posts looks like most people recommend either Moosberg 500 triple combo or Remington 870 triple combo within aprox. same price range...I like the flexibility of having the extra barrels and price is within my range. I guess the 870 triple combo comes in two variations - Express and Wingmaster?

Which of the three models should I go with? And where can I get good deal on them?
Cheers,
Ice Fisherman

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Ok I don't know how Mecanically skilled you are, but the Mossberg can be a little more work to remove the barrel, action( trigger assemble has to be removed) and clean then the 870.

The 870 barrel is removed by unscrewing the Magazine cap. The magazine spring is held in place by a plastic cap.
The 500 barrel is removed by unscrewing a retaining screw and unscrewing the Magazine cap. The magazine spring is NOT held in place and caution must be used as the spring is under some pressure.

The 870 action is removed by depressing two clips( one per side of the receiver) with you finger. action slides out the front of the receiver.

The 500 action is removed by first removing the trigger assemble( hammer and a punch is needed) and then the action is removed.

In short BOTH should be disassembled and clean before use. The factory uses a heavier oil to protect the parts till the gun is sold then we would when cleaning and oiling the gun after use.

I can disassemble, clean and reassemble a 870 with fingers and a few cloths.

I need some tools to do the same with a 500.

This is because I can remove the action of the 870 WITHOUT removing the trigger assemble.
I have not been able to find a way to remove the action out of a Mossberg without removing the trigger assemble.

As for express and Wingmaster. They are both the same gun have all the same parts that are interchangable.
Express is standard model, and the wingmaster is the XL model.

Like buying a car..870 with AM/FM radio and CD player, or 870 with AM/FM radio, CD player, surround sound and Aux input jack.

Hope this helps.

I assume this is the right form for me to fill and mail on Monday for my PAL?

http://www.fseso.org/images/stories/...fc_921_eng.pdf

It seems it can even be filled electronically on the computer to be more legible than hand writing. Tried downloading it from the RCMP site but for some reason it doesn't work from there...just like to confirm it is the right form since it is on another site. Plan is to have it all filled in signed by friend/neighbor, photos, etc. today so it is ready to be mailed on Monday.

Cheers,
Ice Fisherman

Quote:

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Originally Posted by icefisherman

If I understand correctly on Monday morning I can have H1 hunting license AND also buy deer license at the same time. Both at the same place....i.e. closest MNR office?? I can use it ANYWHERE in ON but only with BOW and only for BUCK?
Yes this is correct

How will I know if any WMU has extra available is there central database to find out what WMU has some available?
This Link has the original list of WMUs and quantities available. I don't think they publish an updated list of remaining quanitities anymore, but when you are at the MNR, they will be able to tell you what's left for the areas you're interested in.

http://www.mnr.gov.on.ca/stdprodcons...rod_097695.pdf

Ice Fisherman

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http://www.mnr.gov.on.ca/stdprodcons...rod_097695.pdf

Thank you HunCamp'r...looked quickly at the link you gave me and it says on page 1, :

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Additional deer seals for the controlled hunts (see the Additional Seals Available for Controlled Deer Hunt Only table) will be sold
only at participating ServiceOntario centres starting on October
15, 2013

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Should I understand that it is still possible to get an additional tag for deer hunt by gun (after Oct. 15 and in certain areas only), not just with a bow?

Only asking because tweedwolfscream said in a previous post the following:

Quote:

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The one thing you're too late for is deer hunting in a controlled hunt.

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So I am a bit confused here as it seems getting additional deer tag after Oct. 15 maybe still available for me...assuming I can receive my PAL on time, or if not hunt with someone who is licensed PAL hunter....
Would appreciate clarification.

Cheers,
Ice Fisherman

As mentioned, if you want to save some cash, skip the turkey barrel, and just get a good Turkey Choke, I run the 870 with the long barrel for ducks, geese, grouse, rabbits, pheseants, and Turkeys, I just change my chokes and shot.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by icefisherman

Thank you HunCamp'r...looked quickly at the link you gave me and it says on page 1, :



Should I understand that it is still possible to get an additional tag for deer hunt by gun (after Oct. 15 and in certain areas only), not just with a bow?

Only asking because tweedwolfscream said in a previous post the following:



So I am a bit confused here as it seems getting additional deer tag after Oct. 15 maybe still available for me...assuming I can receive my PAL on time, or if not hunt with someone who is licensed PAL hunter....
Would appreciate clarification.

Cheers,
Ice Fisherman

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Not trying to discourage you about the PAL, but its very optimistic to think you'll be getting it before Christmas. This is usually a 2-3 month process. I would hold off on buying a deer tag (unless you will be bow hunting). You can buy a deer tag up until the last day of the season.

That said, I applaud you for taking the course and showing interest. Hunting is a passion unrivaled by any other, and unless you do it, impossible to accurately describe.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by icefisherman

Should I understand that it is still possible to get an additional tag for deer hunt by gun (after Oct. 15 and in certain areas only), not just with a bow? People who have applied for the Controlled Hunt Draw and were successful have the opportunity to purchase additional seals to be used during the controlled "gun" hunts only. It is too late for you to apply for a Controlled Hunt Validation, so those additionals are not available to you.


So I am a bit confused here as it seems getting additional deer tag after Oct. 15 maybe still available for me...assuming I can receive my PAL on time, or if not hunt with someone who is licensed PAL hunter....
Would appreciate clarification.

If you look at that Additional Seal Link I posted. There are 2 lists of additionals available.... One for Controlled Hunts available Oct15 (Which are no good to you this year. You didn't apply for controlled and can't anymore)----- and one list for open seasons. The open season ones are the ones that you could purchase now. (any that are left). Some of these open seasons are gun seasons and some are bow seasons. (SG/Bow/ML, etc is noted on the list)

Cheers,
Ice Fisherman

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Quote:

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Originally Posted by icefisherman

I guess one priority is getting a lock gun cabinet.
Any idea where I can find a good deal on one...used one can work too.

Cheers,
Ice Fisherman

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I got mine at Canadian tire; it's not top of the line, but it does the trick. The two sizes of StackOn cabinets (8-gun and 10-gun) seem to go on sale pretty often. Right now, it looks like they have the 8-gun on for $89 http://www.canadiantire.ca/AST/brows....jsp?locale=en

I got the 10-gun version on sale for $99 a few weeks ago.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by icefisherman

I guess one priority is getting a lock gun cabinet.
Any idea where I can find a good deal on one...used one can work too.

Cheers,
Ice Fisherman

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If you're not concerned about fireproofing, any cabinet, locker, closet, etc with a lock will do. I have a wooden one it's actually a heavy armoir thing I picked up at a used furniture place.... I built a rack for the closet section that holds about 24 guns, and the other side has shelves and drawers for "stuff". Works Awesome.

To Clarify - Although a locked cabinet is a very good idea, it is not legally required if you have a trigger lock on your gun.

My comment about "controlled hunts" applies only to certain WMUs mainly in southwestern Ontario, where they limit the number of hunters who can participate in the gun season in early November and/or early December. Hunters are selected by draw (which has happened already) for access to these seasons. These draws are different from the "selective harvest" big game draws, which are about controlling the number of animals killed rather than the number of hunters in the bush. Selective harvest draws apply province-wide for antlerless deer, bull and cow moose, and elk; controlled hunt draws only apply in certain units and just for the gun season.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by icefisherman

If I understand correctly on Monday morning I can have H1 hunting license AND also buy deer license at the same time. Both at the same place....i.e. closest MNR office?? I can use it ANYWHERE in ON but only with BOW and only for BUCK?

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Yes - but to clarify, it's not that the deer tag you get over the counter is only valid for bow hunting. It's valid for a buck anywhere in Ontario by any firearm allowed at the time, as long as a controlled hunt is not in effect. It's just that you won't have your PAL right away (and possibly not in time for gun season), so you'll be limited to bow hunting for now. Bow season for deer in most of southern Ontario started Oct 1 and runs till Dec 31, while gun season is one or two weeks in early November*. So if you get a crossbow you can start hunting that buck Monday morning and not give up on him till sundown on new year's eve, though if you're in a unit with a controlled hunt you'll have to take a break when that controlled hunt happens.

If you get your PAL late this fall after the deer gun hunt has come and gone, buying a shotgun will let you start going after rabbits, grouse and waterfowl right away.

*many units also have a muzzleloader season in early December, but I won't get into that for now...

With each additional reply the picture gets clearer.

If I summarize:

- I have missed the control hunt draw and because of that I do not qualify now for additional tag from the control hunt draw after Oct. 15. Clear enough. Should have started earlier.

- I can buy a tag for a buck on Monday (to be used anywhere in ON). I can use that tag right away and get my buck with a bow (a friend will loan me one) in his WMU between now and end of the year with couple weeks exception when there is control hunt period in that WMU...that is Option 1 for me. Completely realistic option and if I am lucky I may come home next week with a deer in my trunk that I shoot with a bow?;-)

- Also....on Monday I can buy ADDITIONAL (or second)tag from the "open season ones" from the MNR office for a specific WMU. This "additional tag" can be for doe or for buck, depending on the WMU zone as the chart points, right? ...I can use that tag in that zone during the dates specified in the chart for guns if I can go there with a friend of mine who already has PAL license. I can hunt with a gun he loans me and if I stay next to him even before I get my PAL? Please confirm.

- And the last option obviously is to get super lucky and get my PAL before the gun season starts (beginning of November) and then I am home free and can use that same "additional/second tag" I got from MNR office to shoot a deer with my own gun? This is the least realistic option.


Hope I got my options correctly now ;-)

Cheers,
Ice Fisherman

As far as I know that's all correct, though I'm not that knowledgeable about the controlled hunt system since I don't hunt in controlled WMUs... but the rest is correct. If you get your PAL fast as per the last option you can fill your first tag with a gun, not just the additional. The reason to buy an additional tag would be to allow you to shoot a doe (if it's valid for antlerless), or just because you want 2 deer.

Also, if you have other people to hunt with, remember that you can pool your tags as long as you're all actively hunting within 5 km of each other and have a reliable system of communication (cell phones, walkie talkies, gun shot signals, etc). Which means even with only a buck tag you could shoot a doe if your hunting buddy still has an unused doe tag.

Also note that in addition to some WMUs having additional tags available only for one sex, some have them available only for certain seasons, for example the bows-only season, which means you can't use them at all during the rifle or muzzleloader season (even if you're using a bow). And some WMUs have no additional tags available at all.

Happy to report that just passed both exams this weekend. Will get my ON Hunting outdoors card, ON small game license and my buck tag tomorrow from the local MNR office.

One question to TurkeyRookie regarding the quote bellow. I understand I should leave questions 20(a) and 20(b) blank. What about question 20(C)???

Would like to mail the form out tomorrow.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by TurkeyRookie

[For Ontario residents: you can send in your application before you get your stamped CFSC firearms course results back from the Ontario CFO and get the 28 day waiting period started earlier than if you wait and attach the results to the application. Questions 20(a) and (b) each have a box to check if the exam results are enclosed, so you would just leave that blank. Probably also worthwhile to include a note that exam results will follow. The 28 day clock starts once the application is received by CFC. If you wait until you get your 'stamped' safety course report(s) back you have added that to your waiting period, and it is often about 6 weeks.]

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Cheers,
Ice Fisherman

Quote:

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Originally Posted by icefisherman

Happy to report that just passed both exams this weekend. Will get my ON Hunting outdoors card, ON small game license and my buck tag tomorrow from the local MNR office.

One question to TurkeyRookie regarding the quote bellow. I understand I should leave questions 20(a) and 20(b) blank. What about question 20(C)???

Would like to mail the form out tomorrow.



Cheers,
Ice Fisherman

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Congrats!!!

If you read the top of the form, it explains the boxes to you.

With regards to 20c.

Box 20 c)

In the provinces of Manitoba and Quebec only, many hunter

safety or similar courses taken prior to 1995 were approved as

being equal to the CFSC requirement. If this applies to you,

complete Box 20 c), including the name of the course. If you

are unsure, call 1 800 731-4000.

Chief Firearms Officers have the authority to alternatively

certify that you meet the requirements regarding the safe

handling and use of firearms and the laws relating to firearms.

To qualify for alternative certification, you must have been in

continuous possession of a firearm since January 1, 1979. If

you have proof that you were alternately certified, check YES in

Box 20 c) and provide a photocopy of it with your application

I doubt this applies to you.

As for the question, it states Manitoba and quebec as well...

So you'd say no (I'm assuming)




20. c) Have you been certified by the Chief Firearms Officer as meeting the safety training requirements or have you successfully completed a



course approved by the Attorney General of Manitoba or Quebec prior to 1995?


No Yes. If yes, specify and attach proof. Specify



Proof



attached



H

OK, Got it. Since I am in Ontario, this obviously does not apply to me, so leaving it blank as well.
Thanks,

Cheers,
Ice Fisherman

Not blank, you say No.

I'll put "NO" then but this is one of those double meaning questions. The instruction says "If this applies to you complete Box 20(c)...."

The way I understand it is since this does NOT apply to me (because I am not in MB or QC) I should not complete 20(c).

Splitting hair I guess...but will say NO as per your instruction.

Cheers,
Ice Fisherman

Hmm, leave it blank then, and when you do the follow up call to find out process, if they need it filled, you can tell them no.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by TurkeyRookie

Hmm, leave it blank then, and when you do the follow up call to find out process, if they need it filled, you can tell them no.

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I've just sent you a PM not to jam this post with such procedural details.

Cheers,
Ice Fisherman

Icefisheram,

It looks like you want to jump head first into hunting and thats great. Since you already have a buddy whos into hunting, try to get out with him if you can. It will cut the learning curve quite a bit. If not, try to find someone who does hunt, it will make the process a bit smoother. I learned the basics of hunting by spending much time reading about it, watching the gimmick tv shows, and most importantly spending the time in the woods either by myself, or with a friend who was also new to hunting.

I'd hold off on buying a gun or bow right away if you are able to borrow equipment this year. Take some time to figure out what you need/want to have with the style of hunting that you want to get into. Also if you plan on just starting with something simple and affordable, look at getting a used gun or bow. Also, make sure you practice with either your gun or bow (especially a bow, cant stress it enough) quite a bit before you even head out. Don't allow yourself to make a questionable shot on an animal. Just because you can shoot at it, doesn't mean it will end all that great for you or the animal. Know what your shooting capabilities are before hand.

Also, don't get unrealistically optimistic about your first day of deer hunting success, a huge part of hunting consists of learning by making errors and not repeating them; also known as failure. However, if you keep learning what you're doing wrong, things are going to start going your way. There will always be deer in the woods, if you aren't seeing them then you're just simply in the wrong place at the wrong time. Learning the right place at the right times is what successful deer hunting is all about. This will be an ongoing learning lesson, so embrace and learn from the many days of "failure" that comes with it till you get it right.

What are your plans for when you do eventually get something? Be prepared to know how to field dress an animal, and either how to butcher it, or lining a butcher up. What happens if you get something big? Prepare to have some money set aside for the taxidermist if needs be.

Good luck, you'll need it!

OK quick update on my non-restricted PAL application for the benefit of those who like me are waiting for it:

- did the two tests on Oct. 5 and 6
- sent the PAL appl. the next day Oct. 7 by registered mail. Didn't wait for the stamped test results, so sent app. without them.
- Miramichi received it on Oct.10
- despite calling them every two days nothing happened until Nov. 8 when they charged my credit card and entered my app. into the system. Found about it couple days later. It started to show online in "processing".
- Called them right away, they gave me a fax number and I've faxed right away the stamped CFO test results.(They came in around Nov.1). They also told me no need to interview my references and that they needed proof of my second name. Faxed it as well.
- Nov. 15 online status changed from "processing" to "in progress".
- Waiting on development and hoping I get my PAL by end of the month, even though every time I call them they tell me it'll likely not happen...but things have moved not too bad so far so who knows I may get lucky.
- will update later on as things progress....

Cheers,
Ice Fisherman

Further update on my PAL application for those filling after me...
Called the ON CFO yesterday and was told application got "stuck in the process for about a week but it is done now and PAL is approved. License will be printed on Thursday and mailed to me on Friday this week." When checking the online status it now shows my PAL number.

Question - can I use that PAL number (before the license arrives in the mail) to go and purchase my gun and ammunition, or do I need to have the physical PAL in my hand to do that?

Hope I can have it next week and will post one last update at that time.
I can say that calling regularly helps and shortens the wait period. It prevents application sitting in one spot for weeks without attention. Sending application before getting the stamped results from the CFO also helps and cuts down on waiting time.

Cheers,
Ice Fisherman

WOw, you are ontop of it.... Took the better part of 3 months to get my PAL after both courses in Sept of 2012.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by icefisherman

Further update on my PAL application for those filling after me...
Called the ON CFO yesterday and was told application got "stuck in the process for about a week but it is done now and PAL is approved. License will be printed on Thursday and mailed to me on Friday this week." When checking the online status it now shows my PAL number.

Question - can I use that PAL number (before the license arrives in the mail) to go and purchase my gun and ammunition, or do I need to have the physical PAL in my hand to do that?

Hope I can have it next week and will post one last update at that time.
I can say that calling regularly helps and shortens the wait period. It prevents application sitting in one spot for weeks without attention. Sending application before getting the stamped results from the CFO also helps and cuts down on waiting time.

Cheers,
Ice Fisherman

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Sorry, you'll have to wait till you have the physical PAL to buy the gun. They need to see the photo on it.

Congrats on basically being finished the process.

I HIGHLY recommend that you get out and practice shooting a lot before heading out and pointing at live game.

I guess at some point you should change your handle on here too. icefisherman_and_hunter

Glad the stay ontop of it tips helped speed it up.

I just thought I'd point out ( i didn't see it above) that after you course you will have do two step for your non restricted. First mail off you proof of passing to the cheif firearms office to be validated then wait to get it back then mail a copy to the rcmp with the pal application .. i never rushed it. But all together it took a month and a half at least ..

If you aren't sure what game you're into yet. I'd get a pump shot gun like and rem 870 first. Very versatile between rem chokes and slug barrels for small game, waterfowl, and deer.

The process has a life of it's own. The gov't will issue your PAL and could take 4-8 weeks
Based upon when you get your license, later this year or early next year and what you want to hunt will determine when you can start. Deer hunitng in southern or eastern Ontario begins approximately Nov 3rd or 4th.
Get your license now and be prepared. You can go to Silverdale shooting range in St. Catherines (open to the public) and start practicing for the big harveest.
What gun to purchase is based upon where and what you want to hunt. In Brighton, ON you can only use Shotgun. Northern Ontario, rifle. You might want to get a scope for a shotgun. Many hunters using a shotgun are harvesting at distances of 200 yards because of the improvements made with shotgun bullets.
Places to hunt, is trial and error unless you know someone. Brighton has lots of land, mostly all private. You will have to know someone to hunt on the land. Milton, Goergetown, London, ON have a healthy populatoin of deer. I understand there is someone in London, ON who arrange deer hunts.
Equipment, check out SAIL and Le Baron (Mississauga, ON) they offer a 10% discount card. Their prices are some of the best for guns, ammo, hunting gear, etc. They are not very giving with information about the guns. You have to do your homework and go there to buy.

45 days for pal.. Minimum... Changes are they won't open the envelope for 40 days.

Congratulations on passing your tests. I agee that you should start , your shooting on a paper target, until you can be confident that your shot will connect where you want it to This is an ideal time to be out and about in the bush . Even if you don't see any game , you will learn their habits , most animals use runways that don't change a lot year to year. Learn to identify , animals by their tracks.You can usually tell deer , by the size of hoof , length of stride etc. A buck usually drags his feet a bit. This is quite obvious if the snow isn't too deep. Remember to sit downwind of a runway , or hunt into the wind if possible. Deer are smart, but they are creatures of habit.

If your friend has permission to hunt some places this is probably,your place to start. Next spring srart knocking on farmers doors, politely, to ask permission , to hunt and fish. Make sure that they know you are an OFAH member and have liability insurance. If they are working don't be afraid to offer to help them. Some may have had bad experiences with trespassing . Some might only allow bow hunting. Don't feeling that you can bring in your buddies if you have permission. Ask the owner. You will find lots of opportunities, take your time, and enjoy it . old243

Finally received my PAL today...total wait with cutting corners everywhere possible and numerous phone calls to Miramichi and ON CFO....from test date to today - 2 months and 2 weeks.

BUT guess what....my name is misspelled on the license....so here we go again....will call them tomorrow to hear what story they come up with...but wouldn't be surprised if I need to wait 2 more months for them to correct their own mistake....

Does anyone know if I can still use my license even with misspelled name on it and go and buy gun/ammunition? I was hoping to be able to buy something during the Boxing day period if I find a good deal....now if I need to wait for them to send me a new corrected one obviously this can't happen....

Not too happy with the service I got for sure....

Cheers,
Ice Fisherman

I don't see why not.. Its hit your pic.

You're good to go. Weather it's a C/O, gun store or the kid selling ammo at CTC they only want I pc. of ID....your PAL. As long as the picture looks like you no problem. Having said that I would still give them a call to see if THEY want to clarify it.

Mike

Just found this awesome thread for new hunters that might be looking for information this year. Just bumping this for the new people like me.

Cheers