11-14-2004, 05:44 PM
[size 2]PIERRE, S.D. – The Department of Game, Fish and Parks reminds hunters that the use of electronic communication devices while hunting carries certain restrictions in South Dakota.[/size]
[size 2]"Hunters in this state may not send or receive a message by radio, cell phone or any other form of electronic communication while in or on a motor vehicle if that message is for the purpose of hunting big game, small game or waterfowl," said Chuck Schlueter, communications manager for the Division of Wildlife.[/size]
[size 2]"There are ethical reasons of fair chase for prohibiting the use of electronic communications while hunting," Schlueter said. "But then, a hunter interested in fair chase already knows the value of hunting on foot. A motor vehicle is a great mechanism to get you to your favorite hunting spot, and a great mechanism to transport you and your game home again. But there is no better way to hunt than to park your vehicle and hunt on foot."[/size]
[size 2]In fact, Schlueter noted that the use of electronic communication is allowed for hunters who are away from their vehicles and on foot.[/size]
[size 2]"Hunters on foot may carry a cell phone or walkie-talkie and can communicate with other hunters who are also on foot," Schlueter said. "The restriction for use of these devices only applies while a hunter is in or on a motor vehicle and using the devices for the purposes of hunting and taking game."[/size]
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[size 2]"Hunters in this state may not send or receive a message by radio, cell phone or any other form of electronic communication while in or on a motor vehicle if that message is for the purpose of hunting big game, small game or waterfowl," said Chuck Schlueter, communications manager for the Division of Wildlife.[/size]
[size 2]"There are ethical reasons of fair chase for prohibiting the use of electronic communications while hunting," Schlueter said. "But then, a hunter interested in fair chase already knows the value of hunting on foot. A motor vehicle is a great mechanism to get you to your favorite hunting spot, and a great mechanism to transport you and your game home again. But there is no better way to hunt than to park your vehicle and hunt on foot."[/size]
[size 2]In fact, Schlueter noted that the use of electronic communication is allowed for hunters who are away from their vehicles and on foot.[/size]
[size 2]"Hunters on foot may carry a cell phone or walkie-talkie and can communicate with other hunters who are also on foot," Schlueter said. "The restriction for use of these devices only applies while a hunter is in or on a motor vehicle and using the devices for the purposes of hunting and taking game."[/size]
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