MNR is looking at the guide rules in Rainy River

[Sam Menard]

Not too long ago, non resident property owners (1 per parcel) and NR hunters who have Ontario relatives could enter the moose draw for a tag in the unit where their property is located. Now, all NR moose hunters have to hunt with an outfitter. I can foresee deer hunting following a similar path.

In the 1990’s, some friends and I used to drive out to Saskatchewan to hunt deer. Like other provinces, they made a distinction between non-resident aliens and non-resident Canadians. Although we didn’t hunt through an outfitter, he stayed at motels and bed and breakfasts, so we did support local businesses. They changed the rules about 12 years ago and now Non-resident Canadians have to enter a draw. The system gives preference to hunters who have Saskatchewan relatives and there aren’t many tags per WMU e.g. 50. Non resident aliens can only hunt the northern half of the province which is mostly forests.

[bellerivercrossbowhunter]

I hunt in Michigan and am glad I don't need to hire a guide! lol

I don't think its necessary.

[diverduck]

I don’t think it’s necessary either. Many states with excellent deer hunting allow for non resident alien freelance hunting. There is plenty of good border state hunting to be had with lots of public land available for any Canadian wanting to avail themselves of it. I’m planning an antelope hunt in 2024, and have plans to hunt both PA and NY over the next 2 seasons. I can’t think of a reason we shouldn’t extend the same courtesy to our American neighbours.