AUSTIN, Texas (KAUZ) – As the general white-tailed deer season begins, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department game wardens are reminding Texans to hunt safely.
safety first
TPWD believes that basic firearm usage techniques such as keeping the muzzle pointed in a safe direction, waiting to load until you arrive at the hunting location, and not taking your finger off the trigger until you are ready to fire can greatly help prevent hunting accidents. He said he could.
Texas Parks said to only aim at clear targets and be aware of what’s in front of and behind the animal you’re shooting. This also helps create clean and ethical shots.
“Following the above safety principles taught in hunter education should be a top priority for all hunters. We want everyone to enjoy their time outdoors, but we also want everyone to be safe.” should take precedence over harvest success.”
License and hunter education
TPWD said hunters age 17 and older must have a valid hunting license and complete a hunter education certification. A valid hunting license and proof of hunting education are required on site.
“Game wardens may look at your license or hunter’s education certificate as a courtesy, but having evidence on hand can save you time and effort. Depending on where you are, they may look up your information. It’s okay to have a physical or digital copy as evidence, but please make sure you have access to it.
Tag your deer immediately
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department said using the wrong tag and inaccurately filling out harvest records are common violations reported by game wardens across Texas.
Hunters must bring all necessary tagging materials to the field and comply with tagging requirements to avoid returning to the truck or camp after harvest.
“If you hunt with a paper license, it’s a good idea to bring a ballpoint pen to avoid smearing the ink, a pocket knife to cut out the date, and something to tag your deer. Use a digital license. If you do, be sure to have a charged cell phone, something to write your confirmation number on, and a way to stick it to the deer when you’re in the field. This will help avoid potential violations and misunderstandings. It’s helpful.”
Harvest reporting, check stations and carcass disposal
Hunters who take white-tailed or mule deer within designated Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) areas must comply with mandatory testing requirements at a TPWD-designated testing station within 48 hours of capture.
Hunters within voluntary inspection areas are strongly encouraged by TPWD to inspect their harvest so that biologists can monitor for the potential presence and spread of CWD.
Statewide carcass disposal requirements must also be followed to reduce the risk of unintentional CWD transmission.
“CWD zones can shift, and some have recently. We’re getting a lot of calls from hunters who are caught off guard by this. They’re double-checking their hunting locations and understanding the requirements. Know what you need to do to prevent the spread of CWD in Texas.”
Additional tips for safe and ethical hunting can be found on the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website.
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