Hunting Solo In New Brunswick: Is It Legal?

Hunting is a popular activity in New Brunswick, with the area offering trophy white-tailed deer, black bears, moose, waterfowl, and wild turkey. But what are the rules regarding a PAL (Possession and Acquisition Licence) when hunting in this region?

In Canada, you can carry a firearm to hunt without having a PAL, as long as you are under the direct and immediate supervision of a person with a valid PAL, who is lawfully allowed to possess that firearm. However, opinions vary on what qualifies as direct supervision. Some say it means being within arm's reach, while others suggest it is open to interpretation and may depend on factors such as the judge's mood or the quality of your lawyer.

In New Brunswick, hunters must have a license to shoot wildfowl. It is also worth noting that while a PAL is not required to hunt, it is necessary to buy or possess a firearm.

Hunting with a friend who has a PAL

Secondly, there are varying interpretations of what constitutes "direct and immediate supervision" when hunting with someone who has a PAL. Some sources suggest that this means the person with the PAL must be within arm's reach at all times, while others say it is enough to be within "hollerin' distance" or voice range. It is important to note that the RCMP enforces the federal firearms laws, while the NB Game Wardens may have different interpretations or enforcement practices.

When hunting with your friend who has a PAL, it is generally agreed that they can claim possession of any firearms you are using, as long as you are within close proximity and they are supervising you. However, there is conflicting information on whether you can each carry your own firearm. Some sources indicate that only the person with the PAL can possess a firearm, while others suggest that each of you can carry your own as long as the supervisor is within a certain range and can take responsibility for your actions. To be safe, it is best to consult with local authorities or legal experts for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Additionally, it is worth noting that the hunting regulations may vary for different types of game. For example, in British Columbia, a trophy license is required for hunting large animals like elk or moose, while smaller animals only require a tag. Similar regulations may apply in New Brunswick, so it is important to familiarize yourself with the specific rules for the type of hunting you plan to do.

Hunting with minors

• Minors aged 12 to 15 are permitted to hunt bear and deer in New Brunswick, but they must be accompanied by an adult while hunting. This change in the minimum age requirement was implemented to encourage more youth outdoors and create new hunting mentorship opportunities.
• For minors to obtain a hunting licence, they must meet certain requirements. Resident and non-resident hunters aged 12-15 must be accompanied by an adult who holds a valid bear or deer licence while hunting.
• In terms of firearms, minors are allowed to carry and use firearms under the direct and immediate supervision of a licensed adult. This means the adult must be within close proximity, such as "arm's reach" or "within hollering distance". The licensed adult is responsible for the minor's actions and safety at all times.
• Minors must also possess a valid hunting licence and follow all other applicable hunting regulations, such as hunting seasons and bag limits.
• It is important to note that these regulations may change, and it is the responsibility of the hunter to stay informed about the most up-to-date rules and requirements.

In summary, hunting with minors in New Brunswick is permitted under specific conditions. Minors must be accompanied by a licensed adult, adhere to firearm safety guidelines, and comply with all relevant hunting laws and regulations.

Hunting with a non-licensed friend

It is worth noting that the regulations regarding firearm supervision differ between provinces. For example, in Alberta, there is no requirement to have a valid PAL under the hunting rules, but specific game regulations connected to weapons, such as possessing a loaded firearm in a vehicle, are enforced. In British Columbia, a licence is not required to hunt wildlife, but a trophy licence is needed if you plan to take large animals like elk or moose.

In New Brunswick, hunters must have a licence to shoot wild fowl, and it is essential to comply with the provincial hunting regulations. Additionally, hunting is only permitted during specific times, usually from half an hour before sunrise to half an hour after sunset.

When planning to hunt with a non-licensed friend in New Brunswick, it is always advisable to review the local laws and regulations to ensure compliance and avoid any legal consequences.

Hunting with a PAL holder

Hunting is a popular activity in New Brunswick, with the region offering a range of game, from white-tailed deer to black bears, moose, waterfowl, and wild turkey. If you're planning to hunt with a PAL holder in the province, here are some things you should know:

• Direct Supervision: In New Brunswick, you can hunt without a PAL as long as you are under the direct and immediate supervision of a PAL holder. This typically means staying within close proximity, such as "arm's length" or "hollering distance." The PAL holder is responsible for ensuring the safety of those they supervise.
• Firearms Possession: According to federal regulations, only the PAL holder can possess and borrow firearms. This means that the person without a PAL cannot physically hold or carry the firearm, but they can use it to hunt under the supervision of the PAL holder.
• Hunting Licenses: Both the PAL holder and the person without a PAL must have valid hunting licenses. The PAL is not a substitute for a hunting license, and you need both to hunt legally.
• Provincial Requirements: New Brunswick has specific requirements for hunting certain types of game. For example, you need a Migratory Game Bird Hunting Permit and a Canadian Wildlife Habitat Conservation Stamp to hunt migratory birds. Make sure to review the provincial hunting regulations and licensing requirements before heading out.
• Law Enforcement: While NB Game Wardens may not strictly enforce the possession of a PAL, the RCMP does. They can impose fines and penalties for violations, so it's important to comply with the relevant laws and regulations.
• Interpretation of "Direct Supervision": There is some ambiguity in how "direct and immediate supervision" is interpreted. It is generally understood to mean staying close to the PAL holder, but the exact distance may vary. Some sources suggest "arm's length," while others mention "hollering distance."
• Other Provincial Regulations: New Brunswick has specific regulations for hunting migratory birds, including restrictions on the use of bait and Sunday closures. Make sure to review the provincial hunting regulations to ensure compliance.
• Non-Firearm Hunting: If you plan to hunt without firearms, such as bow hunting, a PAL is not required. However, you still need to follow the relevant hunting regulations and obtain any necessary licenses or permits.

Hunting without a PAL in Alberta

In Alberta, you can hunt without a PAL as long as you are under the direct supervision of someone who does have a valid PAL. This means that you can hunt with a legally licensed friend and their firearms, as long as you stay close together. However, the definition of "direct supervision" is vague in the firearms act, and some sources suggest that it means staying within arm's length of the PAL holder.

While you can hunt without a PAL in Alberta, you will still need other applicable hunting licenses depending on the type of game, the location, and the dates. In addition, a valid PAL is required to purchase and own firearms and ammunition. The consequence of using a firearm without a PAL is the possibility of a fine and the seizure of your firearms.

Frequently asked questions