Baiting Violations in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania has some of the best hunting land in the country. One way that hunters gauge the quantity of game on any land is through baiting. While purchasing different types of bait and setting it out for wildlife is not illegal in and of itself, there are several stipulations that come into play when hunting season rolls around. Hunting over bait is considered a violation of Pennsylvania Game Law and can result in fines or even a revocation of hunting privileges.
When is baiting allowed?
Attracting wildlife with the use of corn, salt blocks, apples, liquid minerals, or other types of natural or artificial bait is lawful when practiced correctly. Some hunters will bait hunting grounds in the off seasons and take stock of the wildlife through use of a trail camera. This practice is acceptable, so long as the bait is not attracting bears or elk, and the baited wildlife are not in a Disease Management Area.
There is also a certain area within Pennsylvania where regular hunting measures have proven ineffective in maintaining wildlife populations. This area is known as the Southeast Special Regulations Area. The Southeast Special Regulations Area includes Bucks County, Chester County, Delaware County, Montgomery County and Philadelphia County. If you are hunting in this region, some baiting is permissible on private lands. You may only bait with shelled corn or protein pellets, and you cannot use more than five gallons of bait.
Problems with Baiting
Most hunters run into trouble with baiting when they do not realize bait has been placed nearby. Pennsylvania Game Law states that any hunting is prohibited in baited areas until at least 30 days have passed and no bait residue remains. If you are hunting in an area that appears bait free, but bait residue is found, you may be issued a summary offense.
Additionally, baiting charges are often linked to other charges. Because it is illegal to hunt over bait, hunters who have killed a deer in a baited area are also likely to be charged with unlawfully taking a deer. This adds to any potential fines and may even result in jail time. Depending on the type of deer killed, various fines may be applied to replace it, and they can range from $800 to $5,000.
When a Baiting Violation is Received
If you have received a baiting violation, contact an attorney who understands Pennsylvania Game Law. Not only do you risk fines and possible jail time, but hunting violations can also result in losing your hunting privileges. Don’t risk your hunting license—call Cornerstone Law Firm for help.
