Q. I'm interested in bow hunting. Are there any classes? Are there regulations I should be aware of?

A. You need to go to the LDWF web site, http://www.wlf.state.la.us/, to find out when they are offering classes in your area.

Regulations on Bow Hunting: Longbow, compound bow and crossbow or any bow drawn, held or released by mechanical means will be a legal means of take for all properly-licensed hunters. Bow and arrow fishermen must have a sport fishing license and not carry any arrows with broadhead points unless a big game season is in progress.

It is unlawful:

1. To carry a gun including those powered by air or other means while hunting with bow and arrow during the special bow and arrow deer season except, it is lawful to carry a .22 caliber rimfire pistol loaded with #12 shot (ratshot) only.

2. To have in possession or use any poisoned or drugged arrow or arrows with explosive tips.

3. To hunt deer with a bow having a pull less than 30 pounds.

4. To hunt with a bow or crossbow fitted with an infrared, laser sight, electrically operated sight or device specifically designed to enhance vision at night (does NOT include non-projecting red dot sights).

Any person hunting any wildlife management area during the open gun season for deer must wear hunter's orange.

About the Author: Sgt. Scott Fontenot has been with Wildlife and Fisheries, Enforcement Division, for 16 years. Remember, Wildlife and Fisheries has a toll free number to report any game or fish violations at 1-800-442-2511.



These questions and answers deal with general hunting and fishing situations. If you choose to hunt or fish on a wildlife management area (state and federal), you should check to see if there are special rules or regulations for that area. There could even be a special ordinance in the parish or on the property you wish to fish or hunt.

Anyone with questions for Wildlife and Fisheries agents should send them to vpgaz@centurytel.net or mail to The Gazette, c/o W&F Questions, PO Box 220, Ville Platte, La. 70586.

A message to the public: Please remember not to litter. You can report litter violations to your local wildlife agents or by calling Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries at 1-800-442-2511. If an anonymous complaint is received from the public on a litter violation, and a case is made from that complaint, a reward will be given by the Evangeline Parish Solid Waste Commission.