Newbie question about Hunter orange

I'm only required to wear orange when it is gun season for big game ie. Deer, elk, bear...correct?
When it is deer season, I'll be out with my bow, but not during the gun season.

what about heading out with my shotgun for small game? Again, same rules as with the bow ie. As long as it's not during gun season for big game?

thank you.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Nina Martin

Just want to clarify the laws regarding hunter orange.
1) I have my deer licence and a doe tag. From Oct 1 through mid December, it's mostly bow hunting only, except for a few weeks in November. As a new bow hunter, I only need to wear Hunter orange when it is gun season, correct?

2) I also have my small game licence. When I hunt with my bow, again, am I required only to wear orange only during the gun season?
What about if I decide to take my shotgun (modified choke) and hunt small game? Yes to Hunter orange?

thank you for clarifying

---

Blaze orange is needed ONLY during gun seasons for Deer,Moose or Elk. If you're a LICENSED Black Bear hunter hunting during the open season for Blackies,you must wear blaze orange when gun hunting OR if traveling to and from a stand while bow hunting. It's not required while bow hunting from a tree stand. Although,those are the only times where it's LEGALLY required,it's a smart precaution to wear it all the time when hunting in a party for upland or when hunting public land where other hunters may be present.

Thank you Trimmer21

��

You've got me re-reading the regs, I've always worn blaze for everything but duck and sitting in a tree. Your right though it doesn't look like this is needed provided there's no open gun season

The objective of the hunter orange regulation is to maximize hunter safety without negatively impacting hunting success. Under this regulation, all licensed hunters, including bow hunters, falconers and black bear hunters, hunting during a gun season for deer, elk or moose, are required to wear hunter orange. This requirement does not apply to persons who are hunting migratory game birds, except woodcock

My feeling better safe than sorry. During hunting season especially on public land every user be it hunter or non hunter should be decked out in as much orange as possible. In reality is it better to be fashionable or injured? Really don't need to be mandated to be as safe as possible.

I've hunted small game with a guy who did not wear hunter orange because he didn't have to. In thick bush it was just dangerous - I couldn't see him when he was as close as 15-20 yards. On public land or if hunting with someone else, just wear it. Why does common sense have to be legislated?
It's like hunting from a small hang-on tree stand 15 feet up - you don't have to wear a harness, but it's a pretty good idea to do so.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by finsfurfeathers

My feeling better safe than sorry. During hunting season especially on public land every user be it hunter or non hunter should be decked out in as much orange as possible. In reality is it better to be fashionable or injured? Really don't need to be mandated to be as safe as possible.

---

This always gets me, are we so concerned about hunters that we need to wear hunter orange for hiking in the woods between August 15th and February 28th?

There are many provinces where there is no requirement for hunter orange and they do not have a higher percentage of hunting injuries. I do agree with the wearing of hunter orange when hunting in a group but to assume that there is nobody there because you do not see orange is something that is starting to come out and is scary as heck. What about the beaver pond that has a guy duck hunting on it? What about the fall turkey hunter?

We need to make sure of what is beyond our target and not shoot is we do not know 100% that it is safe.

You mention public land, why would it make any difference between public and private? Trespassing is so bad, even with dog walkers and hikers that we must assume there is always the possibility of people being in the woods, not just when the land is public.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Fox

This always gets me, are we so concerned about hunters that we need to wear hunter orange for hiking in the woods between August 15th and February 28th?

There are many provinces where there is no requirement for hunter orange and they do not have a higher percentage of hunting injuries. I do agree with the wearing of hunter orange when hunting in a group but to assume that there is nobody there because you do not see orange is something that is starting to come out and is scary as heck. What about the beaver pond that has a guy duck hunting on it? What about the fall turkey hunter?

We need to make sure of what is beyond our target and not shoot is we do not know 100% that it is safe.

You mention public land, why would it make any difference between public and private? Trespassing is so bad, even with dog walkers and hikers that we must assume there is always the possibility of people being in the woods, not just when the land is public.

---

Yes its the shooters responsibility to make sure their shot is safe. However its your responsibility to be as safe as possible when in an area where guns might be present. No different than crossing the street. Its the driver that responsible however you just can't blindly cross the road. If everyone would take their own safety and responsibility into their own hands we would need a lot less legislation out there.

^^^^^^ what he said!

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Bushmoose

^^^^^^ what he said!

---

LOL .........just like my hunting every once in a while come up with a good one eh?

I am aware that Ontario does not permit camo hunter orange as a lawful form of hunter orange. However, If I was out in the bush during ANY season where orange IS NOT required, I would be wearing Camo orange at a minimum! I was shot once while jump shooting Beaver ponds and wearing only fall brown camo. I did not blame the guy who shot me, as I knew how well I blended in to the vegetation around that pond. Lucky for me that the shooter was shooting a shotgun with fine bird shot. I only suffered welts from the shot hitting my waders but it ruined the waders. (I hung up the waders and filled them with water--------Looked like a sprinkler!!

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by finsfurfeathers

Yes its the shooters responsibility to make sure their shot is safe. However its your responsibility to be as safe as possible when in an area where guns might be present. No different than crossing the street. Its the driver that responsible however you just can't blindly cross the road. If everyone would take their own safety and responsibility into their own hands we would need a lot less legislation out there.

---

So every single person in an area where hunting may be present needs to wear hunter orange to keep them safe from the hunters?

That is something that makes us look like a bunch of idiots.

I am all about safety but do I now need to wear hunter orange to walk out to my chickens? Do I need to wear hunter orange to go get my mail?

I guess I just have a line, I wear hunter orange to be safe when hunting with a group, legally it is only needed during gun hunting for moose, deer and elk, aside from that feel free to wear it whenever you please.

Hunter orange is intended to maximize hunter safety without negatively impacting hunting success. All licensed hunters, including archery hunters, hunting during a gun season for deer, elk or moose, are required to wear hunter orange. As well, all black bear hunters hunting during a black bear season outside gun seasons for deer, elk and moose are required to wear hunter orange except when in a tree stand. Waterfowl hunters are exempt from the hunter orange requirement.

Copied and pasted from the regs book.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by trimmer21

Blaze orange is needed ONLY during gun seasons for Deer,Moose or Elk. If you're a LICENSED Black Bear hunter hunting during the open season for Blackies,you must wear blaze orange when gun hunting OR if traveling to and from a stand while bow hunting. It's not required while bow hunting from a tree stand. Although,those are the only times where it's LEGALLY required,it's a smart precaution to wear it all the time when hunting in a party for upland or when hunting public land where other hunters may be present.

---

I don't think you have to wear hunter orange when in tree stand irrespective of using a bow or a rifle. way I interpret the regs anyways.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Fox

So every single person in an area where hunting may be present needs to wear hunter orange to keep them safe from the hunters?

That is something that makes us look like a bunch of idiots.

I am all about safety but do I now need to wear hunter orange to walk out to my chickens? Do I need to wear hunter orange to go get my mail?

I guess I just have a line, I wear hunter orange to be safe when hunting with a group, legally it is only needed during gun hunting for moose, deer and elk, aside from that feel free to wear it whenever you please.

---

Had this very conversation with a hunter on some public land last fall. Hunting grouse with the dog and was heading back towards the vehicle. The dog alerted me to something up ahead. Picked through the bush and made out a figure all dressed in full camo.
hollered up to him to get his attention and leashed the dog. Chatted with him a bit as he just entered the forest for a bit of a rabbit hunt. Asked him why on public land he didn't make himself more visible to other hunters. Said he wasn't required to. My reply I'm out bird hunting before I shoot I make sure there is nothing but trees infront of me , if you look like a tree what chance do I have not shooting you.
I'm just saying stuff can happen I just don't want people to become enough a statistic to warrant big brother to mandate common sense.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by JJL

I don't think you have to wear hunter orange when in tree stand irrespective of using a bow or a rifle. way I interpret the regs anyways.

---

Read the regs again,JJL. LICENSED Black Bear hunters MUST wear blaze orange when gun hunting during the open season for Black Bear. Their only exemption is while hunting from a tree stand,but,must wear it while going to and from their stand. It's easy to make mistakes with this and the ticket is $150.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by old professor

I am aware that Ontario does not permit camo hunter orange as a lawful form of hunter orange. However, If I was out in the bush during ANY season where orange IS NOT required, I would be wearing Camo orange at a minimum!

---

I'm glad you weren't seriously injured. This part of the Ontario regulations barring orange camo never made any sense to me,at all. A lot more people seem to think the same way,here,including me. I don't understand the issue with it not being allowed. I think it's just as visible as full blaze.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Fox

So every single person in an area where hunting may be present needs to wear hunter orange to keep them safe from the hunters?

That is something that makes us look like a bunch of idiots.

---

No, not every single person? Just the ones who have some basic common sense, to help prevent getting accidentally shot? I personally would rather do everything I can do to be seen, than risk it. But that's just me. Oh, and by the way, I wear a life jacket when in the boat also. Go figure huh?

oh i've read it multiple times and I read it again before I posted to make sure something hadn't changed this year in that respect too.

your original post contradicted the regs to me....maybe I just misunderstand your first post?

'you must wear blaze orange when gun hunting OR if traveling to and from a stand while bow hunting. It's not required while bow hunting from a tree stand'

you made it seem to me that only if you are bow hunting in a stand you don't need to wear blaze orange, but do if you have a gun.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by JJL

oh i've read it multiple times and I read it again before I posted to make sure something hadn't changed this year in that respect too.

your original post contradicted the regs to me....maybe I just misunderstand your first post?

'you must wear blaze orange when gun hunting OR if traveling to and from a stand while bow hunting. It's not required while bow hunting from a tree stand'

you made it seem to me that only if you are bow hunting in a stand you don't need to wear blaze orange, but do if you have a gun.

---

That's what I meant,JJL. Bow hunting from a tree stand,ONLY. All gun hunting for big game requires blaze orange.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Bushmoose

No, not every single person? Just the ones who have some basic common sense, to help prevent getting accidentally shot? I personally would rather do everything I can do to be seen, than risk it. But that's just me. Oh, and by the way, I wear a life jacket when in the boat also. Go figure huh?

---

something worth repeating!

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by trimmer21

That's what I meant,JJL. Bow hunting from a tree stand,ONLY. All gun hunting for big game requires blaze orange.

---

Where in the regs did you read this? Page 25 clearly says - In addition, all licensed black bear hunters hunting during the open season for black bear that is not a gun season for deer, elk or moose, are required to wear hunter orange except when in a tree stand.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Guelph1981

Where in the regs did you read this? Page 25 clearly says - In addition, all licensed black bear hunters hunting during the open season for black bear that is not a gun season for deer, elk or moose, are required to wear hunter orange except when in a tree stand.

---

If you read my post,again,isn't that exactly what I said?

OOD magazine also posted some info on hunter orange:

http://www.oodmag.com/hunting/hunter-orange/

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by trimmer21

If you read my post,again,isn't that exactly what I said?

---

Actually what you said was - If you're a LICENSED Black Bear hunter hunting during the open season for Blackies,you must wear blaze orange when gun hunting OR if traveling to and from a stand while bow hunting. It's not required while bow hunting from a tree stand. And then you said - That's what I meant,JJL. Bow hunting from a tree stand,ONLY. All gun hunting for big game requires blaze orange.

So again i ask where in the regs did you read this? According to what i posted above from the regs if there is no open gun season for moose, elk or deer i can bear hunt from a tree stand without wearing orange. It makes no mention of bows only from a tree stand or that all big game gun hunting requires wearing orange like you have stated.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Guelph1981

Actually what you said was - If you're a LICENSED Black Bear hunter hunting during the open season for Blackies,you must wear blaze orange when gun hunting OR if traveling to and from a stand while bow hunting. It's not required while bow hunting from a tree stand. And then you said - That's what I meant,JJL. Bow hunting from a tree stand,ONLY. All gun hunting for big game requires blaze orange.

So again i ask where in the regs did you read this? According to what i posted above from the regs if there is no open gun season for moose, elk or deer i can bear hunt from a tree stand without wearing orange. It makes no mention of bows only from a tree stand or that all big game gun hunting requires wearing orange like you have stated.

---

I read the same regs you did and that's exactly what I said. What am I missing here?

Trimmer, I think you're trying to say that you must wear blaze orange while gun hunting for bear, period. "All gun hunting for big game requires blaze orange".

The other guys are saying that when bear hunting (with a gun) you can remove your blaze orange once you're in the tree stand as long as there are no other big game gun seasons open. I interpret it this way as well.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by trimmer21

I read the same regs you did and that's exactly what I said. What am I missing here?

---

No you said you have to wear orange for all big game hunting with a gun. You also said that orange was not required only if using a bow from a tree stand. That is wrong. You also told JJL they need to reread the regs that is why i asked where in the regs you read this information. Because really If there is no open gun season for moose or elk or deer and you are in a tree stand hunting for bear it does not matter if you are using a bow or a gun you are not required to wear orange.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Guelph1981

No you said you have to wear orange for all big game hunting with a gun. You also said that orange was not required only if using a bow from a tree stand. That is wrong. You also told JJL they need to reread the regs that is why i asked where in the regs you read this information. Because really If there is no open gun season for moose or elk or deer and you are in a tree stand hunting for bear it does not matter if you are using a bow or a gun you are not required to wear orange.

---

OK,now,I understand what you're saying,but,I don't agree. The way I understand the regs and how it was explained to me by retired CO hunting partners is when gun hunting for Black Bear,we need to be using blaze orange whether we're gun hunting from a tree stand, sitting on the ground in a blind or "spot and stalk" hunting regardless of any other open season for big game at the same time. We're only allowed to remove our orange when in a tree stand with a bow,but,once we leave the stand,blaze orange must be used.
This is particularly confusing in my home WMU73 because Deer(Archery) and Black Bear (archery and rifle) are open at the same time. While Deer hunting with archery gear,blaze orange isn't required except during the gun hunt,BUT,a "licensed" Bear hunter while hunting Black Bear, must be wearing blaze orange going to and from a stand or when still hunting on the ground. I'm willing to bet that is why the more frequently written tickets are for blaze orange violations. For the average hunter,it's very confusing.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by trimmer21

Blaze orange is needed ONLY during gun seasons for Deer,Moose or Elk. If you're a LICENSED Black Bear hunter hunting during the open season for Blackies,you must wear blaze orange when gun hunting OR if traveling to and from a stand while bow hunting. It's not required while bow hunting from a tree stand. Although,those are the only times where it's LEGALLY required,it's a smart precaution to wear it all the time when hunting in a party for upland or when hunting public land where other hunters may be present.

---

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by trimmer21

Read the regs again,JJL. LICENSED Black Bear hunters MUST wear blaze orange when gun hunting during the open season for Black Bear. Their only exemption is while hunting from a tree stand,but,must wear it while going to and from their stand. It's easy to make mistakes with this and the ticket is $150.

---

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by trimmer21

That's what I meant,JJL. Bow hunting from a tree stand,ONLY. All gun hunting for big game requires blaze orange.

---

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by trimmer21

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Guelph1981

Where in the regs did you read this? Page 25 clearly says - In addition, all licensed black bear hunters hunting during the open season for black bear that is not a gun season for deer, elk or moose, are required to wear hunter orange except when in a tree stand.

---

If you read my post,again,isn't that exactly what I said?

---

I'm pretty sure you've said that only bow hunters in a stand can forgo the orange when bear hunting AND both gun and bow hunters can forgo orange when in the stand for bear.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Rugger

I'm pretty sure you've said that only bow hunters in a stand can forgo the orange when bear hunting AND both gun and bow hunters can forgo orange when in the stand for bear.

---

I apologize if I made it confusing. I actually meant the exact opposite.

Oh, no need to apologize. I just wanted to point out that a few of your posts sounded contradictory which is where some of the confusion is coming from. Happens to the best of us.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by trimmer21

OK,now,I understand what you're saying,but,I don't agree. The way I understand the regs and how it was explained to me by retired CO hunting partners is when gun hunting for Black Bear,we need to be using blaze orange whether we're gun hunting from a tree stand, sitting on the ground in a blind or "spot and stalk" hunting regardless of any other open season for big game at the same time. We're only allowed to remove our orange when in a tree stand with a bow,but,once we leave the stand,blaze orange must be used.
This is particularly confusing in my home WMU73 because Deer(Archery) and Black Bear (archery and rifle) are open at the same time. While Deer hunting with archery gear,blaze orange isn't required except during the gun hunt,BUT,a "licensed" Bear hunter while hunting Black Bear, must be wearing blaze orange going to and from a stand or when still hunting on the ground. I'm willing to bet that is why the more frequently written tickets are for blaze orange violations. For the average hunter,it's very confusing.

---

You are understanding the regs wrong then. If i decide to load up my gear and spend tomorrow sitting in the tree stand with my 30-06 then i only need to wear my orange to and from my stand. The area i hunt there is no open gun season for deer or moose or elk right now so i am free to lose the orange once in the tree and legally enjoy my rifle bear hunt not dressed like a pumpkin.

Edit - I want apologize to you. Im honestly not trying to be a troll here or be an @$$hat purposely. I have read many of your posts over the years and I respect what you have to say. I know you have been doing this way longer than I have thats why for the most part i try to keep quiet on here unless i have a stupid newbie question i need help with. That being said I wish you the best of luck and lots of success this upcoming season!

Cheers,
Jeremy

You only need orange when hunting bears from the ground or during an open gun season for big game. Period, it's as clear as mud in the regs.

Why don't you just wear it at all times while using a gun or if there is a open gun season.
If it saves one person from being shot then it's worth it.
In all honesty it's really not that hard to throw on a orange vest and hat to keep everyone safe.

I've even wore mine while in a canoe going to a duck blind. Better safe then sorry.

Sent from my LG-D852 using Tapatalk

I have to agree with Guelph1981's interpretation.
I have been up north getting ready to hunt this weekend without internet.
like rippin_355 said, it's clear as mud!

Here is a link to the actual regulations:
https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/980665#BK7

Part 4 (General), section 26:

26. (1) The holder of a hunting or trapping licence shall wear a garment in hunter orange and a head cover in hunter orange while hunting wildlife, (a) during the open seasons for deer, elk or moose, other than the seasons restricted to the use of bows only; and
(b) during the open season for bear. O. Reg. 665/98, s. 26 (1); O. Reg. 529/10, s. 6; O. Reg. 49/11, s. 3 (1).
(2) The garment referred to in subsection (1) must be solid and not open mesh clothing with a minimum total area of not less than 400 square inches above the waist and visible from all sides. O. Reg. 665/98, s. 26 (2).
(3) Clause (1) (a) does not apply to a person who is hunting migratory game birds other than woodcock. O. Reg. 665/98, s. 26 (3).
(4) Clause (1) (b) does not apply to a person who, during an open season for bear,
(a) hunts small game or wild turkey;
(b) hunts wildlife, other than bear, authorized by a trapping licence on his or her trapline;
(c) hunts moose, deer or elk during an open season for moose, deer or elk that is restricted to the use of bows only and that runs concurrently with the open season for bear; or
(d) is in a tree stand while hunting bear. O. Reg. 49/11, s. 3 (2).


So during the open season for bear you are required to wear hunter orange unless you are in a tree stand hunting bear during the open season for bear.

No need to "split hairs" . If you value your "health" wear blaze-orange all the time (during any open season) except when waterfowl- or turkey-hunting . --- You MAY be a "safe" hunter BUT is the other guy ? --- Some YAHOO "could" even mistake you for a bear while you're using a tree-stand . --- Like to gamble ?

let me add another dimension i am a newb as well
if i want to spot and stalk a bear and take a backpack will an hunter orange rain cover on the pack make me legal and of course front vest and hat

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by hunteronwheels

let me add another dimension i am a newb as well
if i want to spot and stalk a bear and take a backpack will an hunter orange rain cover on the pack make me legal and of course front vest and hat

---

Yes and no... because the backpack straps are covering your orange on the chest (and I assume the straps aren't orange)...

I've never seen it be an issue. If you have covered the pack in orange, have a vest on, and a hat on... you're a giant mono-coloured beacon in the bush. It's not camo (even orange camo)... so even to a colourblind hunter you will standout. I don't think anyone I hunt with has an orange backpack... so technically we're in violation of the rules when the pack is on and you're walking through the bush.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by northernontario

so technically we're in violation of the rules when the pack is on and you're walking through the bush.

---

Uhmmm, no you're not. Reg.s just say 400 square inches and must be visible from all sides. Doesn't say how much has to be visible. This topic was beat to death a few times on here, I hope it doesn't erupt again?

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Bushmoose

Uhmmm, no you're not. Reg.s just say 400 square inches and must be visible from all sides. Doesn't say how much has to be visible. This topic was beat to death a few times on here, I hope it doesn't erupt again?

---

http://www.oodmag.com/hunting/hunter-orange/

Well according to this article article northernontario is right.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Guelph1981

http://www.oodmag.com/hunting/hunter-orange/

Well according to this article article northernontario is right.

---

I don't see anything there that say's he is right? The article just quotes the regs. to say "[COLOR=#000000]“The garment referred to in subsection (1) must be solid and not open mesh clothing with a minimum total area of not less than 400 square inches above the waist and visible from all sides. O. Reg. 665/98, s. 26 (2).” - See more at: http://www.oodmag.com/hunting/hunter-orange/#sthash.Q28qcdMA.dpuf"

Just curious, but if a person is wearing a vest, are they supposed to walk around the bush with their arms raised high in the air, so as to not block the two sides?

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by northernontario

Yes and no... because the backpack straps are covering your orange on the chest (and I assume the straps aren't orange)...

I've never seen it be an issue. If you have covered the pack in orange, have a vest on, and a hat on... you're a giant mono-coloured beacon in the bush. It's not camo (even orange camo)... so even to a colourblind hunter you will standout. I don't think anyone I hunt with has an orange backpack... so technically we're in violation of the rules when the pack is on and you're walking through the bush.

---

I emailed a CO about this and posted the answer on here a year or two ago. According to that particular CO, you're fine to wear any colour of pack over your blaze orange. The law is not to split hairs, it's to make sure we wear at least a blaze orange hat and vest when in the field. Anything more (like covering your pack with an extra vest, etc.) is an extra safety precaution that's your call to make. Here's the question and answer.

Hello,
I'm curious about blaze orange requirements when wearing a backpack. Obviously, a backpack will cover up a significant portion of the blaze orange vest. Would you consider this as having less than the required 400 sq inches of visible material? Are there other variables to consider? I suppose a 250 lb man would have more visible blaze than someone who is 150 lb. It came up in a discussion recently and would like to have some clarification.
Thanks,

Greg

Hello,

Thank you for your inquiry. We apologize for the delay in responding to your email.

As long as you are wearing the required 400 square inches there should be no problem. You should remember however that wearing a backpack that covers a large portion of your hunter orange makes you less visible to other hunters. You may choose to purchase an orange backpack or cover your existing backpack with a piece of orange fabric or an orange vest.

We hope you have found this information helpful. If you require further assistance contact the Natural Resources Information Centre toll free at 1-800-667-1940.

Regards,

From Guelph 1981's article
http://www.oodmag.com/wp-content/upl...8-11.09.54.png

Hi Rugger, I read that article too and it sparked a debate here when it came out. I was told otherwise (in writing) from a CO. Sure, maybe one CO's interpretation will be different from the next, but if I worried that much about every possible interpretation of the law I wouldn't be able to muster up the courage to head afield.

As a side note, I've been checked by CO's in the field while wearing a pack over my orange and it wasn't an issue. Same as it isn't an issue to step inside a full camo ground blind while wearing blaze orange.

Is there much difference wih respect to visibility when
1) wearing a back pack
2) Leaning against a tree while on watch?

It does seem strange that a back pack would be ok, but broken (camo) or mesh not ok.

Who knows but maybe the logic behind it is by wearing the vest your complying. If you then add a pack your still in compliance, but taking your own risk.

Hey GW11, my post was in response to Bushmoose's post about not having seen anything about backpacks covering the vest. Posted the pic in case it wasn't coming up for some. As for your experience I have no doubt as I don't doubt the poster who was fined or warned about not having an orange helmet cover while on an ATV during moose season. As always what we do/ wear (to some extent) is up to the interpretation of any CO at the time, all we can do is follow the "regs summery" to the best of our ability.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Rugger

Hey GW11, my post was in response to Bushmoose's post about not having seen anything about backpacks covering the vest.

---

You're correct Rugger, I didn't take note of the pic. Guess I was focused on the print? At any rate, I would like to say, I am a keen advocate of the law regarding hunter orange. In my books, it's just safe common sense to wear it, law or not. If people want to cover their back packs with orange, by all means, go ahead. In my opinion though, it is not required legally. That's it, that's all. :goodstuff:

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Bushmoose

You're correct Rugger, I didn't take note of the pic. Guess I was focused on the print? At any rate, I would like to say, I am a keen advocate of the law regarding hunter orange. In my books, it's just safe common sense to wear it, law or not. If people want to cover their back packs with orange, by all means, go ahead. In my opinion though, it is not required legally. That's it, that's all. :goodstuff:

---

To be clear I have no issue about wearing a backpack over your orange vest. People need to transport their gear in the field. I was just pointing out that there is literature out there that says it is illegal to cover a vest with a backpack. I dont think any co with a little common sense would bust someone for this. But we all know how common sense isnt so common these days so its possible someone could end up fighting in court because of how a co interprets the regs. Whether wearing orange or decked out in camo we should all be doing our best to keep each other safe and making sure of our targets and beyond before pulling the trigger. Stay safe this season everyone!

And I queried the MNRF as a result of this thread, and their response today contradicts that given to GW11. Take what you will from this, I'm not into debating it. Posted for information purposes only.


Referring page: page/ministry-natural-resources-and-forestry
Message:

Hello. I am writing to ask you to clear up a topic of uncertainty regarding the use of hunter orange. If I am wearing the appropriate amount of hunter orange (400 sq. in.) when legally required to do so, but then wear a backpack that is NOT hunter orange over top of my jacket or vest thereby rendering some of it not visible, am I in violation of the law?

Reply Request: Yes
Name: smallgamer

E-mail: [email protected]

Phone number: 519-xxx-xxxx

Hello smallgamer:


Thank you for your inquiry.

Yes, it would be illegal to carry a non-hunter orange backpack on your back. By putting a non-hunter orange backpack on your back, you are now illegal because your hunter orange garment is now less than 400 square inches above the waist and visible from all sides.

In the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act, it states the holder of a hunting or trapping licence shall wear a garment in hunter orange and a head cover in hunter orange while hunting wildlife. The hunter orange garment must be solid and not open mesh clothing with a minimum total area of not less than 400 square inches above the waist and visible from all sides.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by smallgamer

And I queried the MNRF as a result of this thread, and their response today contradicts that given to GW11. Take what you will from this, I'm not into debating it. Posted for information purposes only.


Referring page: page/ministry-natural-resources-and-forestry
Message:

Hello. I am writing to ask you to clear up a topic of uncertainty regarding the use of hunter orange. If I am wearing the appropriate amount of hunter orange (400 sq. in.) when legally required to do so, but then wear a backpack that is NOT hunter orange over top of my jacket or vest thereby rendering some of it not visible, am I in violation of the law?

Reply Request: Yes
Name: smallgamer

E-mail: [email protected]

Phone number: 519-xxx-xxxx

Hello smallgamer:


Thank you for your inquiry.

Yes, it would be illegal to carry a non-hunter orange backpack on your back. By putting a non-hunter orange backpack on your back, you are now illegal because your hunter orange garment is now less than 400 square inches above the waist and visible from all sides.

In the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act, it states the holder of a hunting or trapping licence shall wear a garment in hunter orange and a head cover in hunter orange while hunting wildlife. The hunter orange garment must be solid and not open mesh clothing with a minimum total area of not less than 400 square inches above the waist and visible from all sides.

---

Hey,where did the rest of your post go? I noticed that according to Ont.Reg665/98 pursuant to the FWCA,ALL hunters (except waterfowlers) MUST wear blaze hunter orange during an open season for Black Bear. I take that to mean that because Bear season runs in part of the province from Aug 15 and in the southern part starts on Sep.6 and ends Nov 15,then,ALL hunters must wear blaze orange at all times until the end of the gun season for Bears. That seems to be a change from the Summary that requires hunter orange only during the gun season for Deer,Elk or Moose and only while hunting Black Bears except when in a stand. I believe I posted that in post#2 which may be an error.
Note to newbies---- Please do your own research instead of taking the word from the internet as gospel and just buy a good blaze orange vest or jacket and hat,wear it all the time until all big game gun seasons are over and save yourself a pile of aggravation.:moose:

That's not what the summary says:

All licensed hunters, including archery hunters, hunting during a gun season for deer, elk or moose, are required to wear hunter orange. As well, all black bear hunters hunting during a black bear season outside gun seasons for deer, elk and moose are required to wear hunter orange except when in a tree stand. Waterfowl hunters are exempt from the hunter orange requirement.

It's also not what FCWA says. See clause 4a,b which exempts small game hunters, turkey hunters and trappers from 1b.

26. (1) The holder of a hunting or trapping licence shall wear a garment in hunter orange and a head cover in hunter orange while hunting wildlife,
(a) during the open seasons for deer, elk or moose, other than the seasons restricted to the use of bows only; and
(b) during the open season for bear. O. Reg. 665/98, s. 26 (1); O. Reg. 529/10, s. 6; O. Reg. 49/11, s. 3 (1).
(2) The garment referred to in subsection (1) must be solid and not open mesh clothing with a minimum total area of not less than 400 square inches above the waist and visible from all sides. O. Reg. 665/98, s. 26 (2).
(3) Clause (1) (a) does not apply to a person who is hunting migratory game birds other than woodcock. O. Reg. 665/98, s. 26 (3).
(4) Clause (1) (b) does not apply to a person who, during an open season for bear,
(a) hunts small game or wild turkey;
(b) hunts wildlife, other than bear, authorized by a trapping licence on his or her trapline;
(c) hunts moose, deer or elk during an open season for moose, deer or elk that is restricted to the use of bows only and that runs concurrently with the open season for bear; or
(d) is in a tree stand while hunting bear. O. Reg. 49/11, s. 3 (2).
(5) In this section,

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by trimmer21

Hey,where did the rest of your post go? I noticed that according to Ont.Reg665/98 pursuant to the FWCA,ALL hunters (except waterfowlers) MUST wear blaze hunter orange during an open season for Black Bear. I take that to mean that because Bear season runs in part of the province from Aug 15 and in the southern part starts on Sep.6 and ends Nov 15,then,ALL hunters must wear blaze orange at all times until the end of the gun season for Bears. That seems to be a change from the Summary that requires hunter orange only during the gun season for Deer,Elk or Moose and only while hunting Black Bears except when in a stand. I believe I posted that in post#2 which may be an error.
Note to newbies---- Please do your own research instead of taking the word from the internet as gospel and just buy a good blaze orange vest or jacket and hat,wear it all the time until all big game gun seasons are over and save yourself a pile of aggravation.:moose:

---

Read the summary and FWCA - they are both online.
In a nutshell you need to wear blaze orange:
- all hunters except waterfowlers during deer, moose, elk gun seasons
- bear hunters when not in a tree stand (all bear seasons allow firearms)

No need to confuse it more than that.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by werner.reiche

Read the summary and FWCA - they are both online.
In a nutshell you need to wear blaze orange:
- all hunters except waterfowlers during deer, moose, elk gun seasons
- bear hunters when not in a tree stand (all bear seasons allow firearms)

No need to confuse it more than that.

---

A-H-H-H!!!! Unless I'm in the boat,I'm wearing it all the time. The Summary is quite clear that it's a general guide only and the FWCA AND the Ontario Regulations is the final authority. My head hurts...o-w-w-w.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by smallgamer

And I queried the MNRF as a result of this thread, and their response today contradicts that given to GW11. Take what you will from this, I'm not into debating it. Posted for information purposes only.


Referring page: page/ministry-natural-resources-and-forestry
Message:

Hello. I am writing to ask you to clear up a topic of uncertainty regarding the use of hunter orange. If I am wearing the appropriate amount of hunter orange (400 sq. in.) when legally required to do so, but then wear a backpack that is NOT hunter orange over top of my jacket or vest thereby rendering some of it not visible, am I in violation of the law?

Reply Request: Yes
Name: smallgamer

E-mail: [email protected]

Phone number: 519-xxx-xxxx

Hello smallgamer:


Thank you for your inquiry.

Yes, it would be illegal to carry a non-hunter orange backpack on your back. By putting a non-hunter orange backpack on your back, you are now illegal because your hunter orange garment is now less than 400 square inches above the waist and visible from all sides.

In the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act, it states the holder of a hunting or trapping licence shall wear a garment in hunter orange and a head cover in hunter orange while hunting wildlife. The hunter orange garment must be solid and not open mesh clothing with a minimum total area of not less than 400 square inches above the waist and visible from all sides.

---

I guess this goes to show you that one CO's interpretation can and likely will be different from the next. Thanks for posting that smallgamer. I'll print and carry the response I received in case I run into problems.

I'm not sure if I mentioned it earlier but I've talked to CO's in the field while wearing a large green pack over my blaze vest and it wasn't an issue. It's probably one of those things they can decide to charge you with if you act like a jerk.

I just got back from the Moose hunt and was checked twice by CO's. Each time I had my back pack on over my orange jacket and it wasn't an issue. As long as we're wearing the proper vest or jacket,the back pack doesn't matter because it can be removed.

The law would be more applicable to the "visible from all sides" portion. If you are hunting while walking with a backpack obscuring the hunter orange on your back then the 400 inches wouldn't be visible on all sides. As with all LE, discretion and common sense is a part of it... a hunter at his truck with his pack on over the orange is different than someone stalking with a pack on in Southern Ontario in a crowded bush.

Great question for a thread though.....It really gets the people moving,