Want To Hunt In Montana? Learn the Rules

My back yard is infested with ducks. Lovely, delicious ducks. Seeing them out there on a daily basis often makes me think of hunting. Although I have eaten many a meal that was shot and brought home, I have never actually been hunting. Since I am a firm believer that everyone should be able to be self-sufficient should the need arise, and since I'm not a vegetarian, hunting is a skill I need to obtain.

As I was watching these ducks who constantly pester me for food I had what I thought was a genius idea. A foolproof plan for successful duck hunting. "Why hasn't this occurred to duck hunters?" I thought. Why would people collectively spend millions on decoys and duck calls when all they really need is a loaf of bread? Actually, with a mere slice of bread I could have my choice of any of the ducks in my yard, so why isn't this the thing to do?

Thankfully, before I just decided to head off with Sarah Lee and bring home enough duck to last the entire winter, I did some reading and found what most people already know. It's illegal. It's not only illegal to use food for bait, it also makes that area off limits for the next 10 days.

As stupid as this sounds to seasoned hunters, or perhaps logical people who are smarter than me, we have new hunters in Montana every year who break laws without even knowing. If you're planning on doing some hunting, do yourself a favor and take the time to read up on the regulations. Even better, go with someone who knows what they're doing.

If you have questions, check out Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks official website for the current regulations. Be safe.