The Province is changing regulations under the Wildlife Act to create more hunting opportunities for Nova Scotians.
Hunting of big game species such as deer and bear is a popular recreational activity for many Nova Scotians. The amendments will lengthen the season for deer hunting, ensure gun safety and training remains a priority and make it easier for families to hunt together.
“Nova Scotia is a province with a very rich tradition in hunting, fishing and outdoor living,” said Natural Resources Minister Tory Rushton. “Every year, tens of thousands of Nova Scotians hunt safely and responsibly during hunting season. These changes will increase opportunities for Nova Scotians to hunt and support our wildlife management objectives.”
Amendments to the General Wildlife Regulations, Bear Harvesting Regulations and Deer Hunting Regulations will:
• Reduce the minimum age to 12 from 16 for hunting deer and bear, consistent with hunting small game
• Adding 11 more Sundays per year when hunting is permitted
• Adding one week to the end of general deer hunting season annually.
The new regulations come into effect Wednesday, October 1.
Youth under 18 must still hunt under direct supervision of a licensed adult hunter to ensure safety and mentoring. Training requirements, including the hunter education course and the firearms safety course, remain mandatory.
Increasing the number of Sunday hunting opportunities means more Nova Scotians – particularly those who work during the week – can participate. Until now, Nova Scotia was the last province with significant restrictions on Sunday hunting. The move is also expected to support rural economies through increased travel and equipment purchases.
Extending the hunting season for deer also supports population management, a concern in some parts of the province.
Photo & Information via Nova Scotia Government.
