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Bradford County WCO Blake Barth reported that, during his checks of small-game hunters, he found some of their shotguns were not plugged to a three-shell total capacity.
“Hunters should take time to make sure their equipment is in compliance with laws and regulations prior to going afield,” Barth said.
Bradford County WCO Michael Goodenow reports that several tips have come in regarding possible game-law violations. He encourages everyone who witnesses a violation to contact their nearest Game Commission region office.
Luzerne County WCO Gerald Kapral reported he recently cited an individual for hunting in a safety zone, hunting in a baited area, and allowing his 13-year-old son to hunt unaccompanied. That person also received a warning for hunting from an enclosed blind and failing to post an orange band near the blind location. He pleaded guilty to all citations.
Luzerne County WCO Gerald Kapral filed several citations against an individual for shooting a buck with a firearm during the early antlerless deer-only muzzleloader season. The violation was witnessed by an archery hunter, and when the witness advised the man that it was antlerless deer season only, the violator fled the area. Interviews with local residents led to a description of a vehicle and a license-plate number that enabled officers to track down the violator. A hearing is pending.
Luzerne County WCO Gerald Kapral filed citations after he observed a turkey hunter take a loaded shotgun that was leaning against a vehicle and feverishly work the action to eject the shells in the gun. Despite being told to stop, the hunter continued and ejected three shells. Subsequent examination of the shotgun also showed that it was not plugged to a three-shell maximum capacity.
Northumberland County WCO Jason Kelley reports citing several individuals on the State Game Lands 58 shooting range for not possessing range permits, possessing a firearm containing excess rounds, and firing from positions other than the designated firing line.
Bradford County WCO Eric Kelly reported drug-related criminal charges are pending against two individuals after an incident in Standing Stone Township.
Pike and Monroe counties WCO Mark Kropa reported he recently investigated two men who shot an antlerless deer in a baited area. Each face fines of over $700, plus loss of hunting privileges.
Susquehanna County WCO Mike Webb reported bear complaints are still being reported.
“This is not unusual anymore, given the high number of bears in the county,” Webb said.
Webb also said he investigated several reports of road hunting in his district.