Idaho HB 469 - More Proposed Changes to Open up the Season, this time from the Legislature

[@briangilmore2256]

15:40 this is a great point.

[@micapeakrider]

The "northwest" rules are sensible for muzzleloaders. Exposed ignition. traditional percussion caps, no scopes, loose powder. There is no tactical advantage to using an inline style under these rules, only ergonomic preference, so no reason to exclude them. Non toxic copper, or jacketed bullets make for a more humane kill.

[@DadHominem]

Looks like the bill will allow for the use of sabots, in-line primers, and pelletized powder. The IWF opposes this being done via legislature (as opposed to the "experts" at IDFG), but the legislature is exactly where this belongs precisely because it is a legislative change. If IWF and IDFG oppose, then they should contact the legislature for the reason; make their case in other words. We - everyone - need to get away from allowing non-elected (not accountable to the citizens) agencies to pass "rules" that have the force and effect of law. Law creation and modification is the role of the legislature, not appointed bureaucrats.

[@jeffo3141]

Yes! Exactly! The legislature's job is to create laws, not the administrative departments. At the U.S. Federal level the administrative principle of "Chevron deference" is a great example of administrative lawmaking run amok.

[@ryanjohnsen]

I have been working with my fish and game commissioner the last 2 or 3 years trying to get copper bullets allowed and I emailed Thor about it. At the same time I let the commissioner know I didn’t support any other changes in the season, especially not these changes that would increase the effectiveness and range of muzzleloaders. I’m saddened to see the work that was done turn to the state legislature as a bill like this. I have called and emailed my representatives to express my feelings on it. And this bill doesn’t even say anything about copper bullets being lawful.

[@hazcat640]

My view is that if you want in-lines and scopes, etc then hunt in the normal rifle season. Muzzle loader, to me means flint or cap ignition and traditional loading.

[@DadHominem]

From the Idaho Legislature: "Adds to existing law to provide that the Department of Fish and Game shall not adopt or enforce any rule that makes it unlawful to use 209 primers, pelletized powder, or sabots in a muzzleloader-only season." I don't see any mention of scopes. Is there an amendment to the bill that adds language other than what I quoted above?

[@hazcat640]

@@DadHominem I don't know, but if they are going to allow in-lines then scopes won't be far behind.

[@mojomike3913]

@@DadHominem the language is an overstep in and of itself. The IDF&G is charged with regulating and maintaining game in the state of Idaho and the legislature shouldn't be trying to pass law that takes any part of that away from that organization. There are short range weapon seasons that allow the use of inlines. Dedicated muzzleloader season should remain traditional. Those seasons were created and timed around traditional muzzle loading firearms and the advances in technology have extended the range which makes the game more vulnerable and will negatively effect conservation and the sport.

[@DadHominem]

@@mojomike3913 I disagree, but I appreciate your thoughtful reply.

[@mojomike3913]

@@DadHominem here is my issue with inline hunters, I put this question to them-"Do you love hunting with your inline muzzleloader so much that you would choose to hunt with it during the general any weapon season?" Not one has ever responded in the affirmative to this question, so that leads me to the conclusion that it's not about hunting with that particular weapon that they are enthusiastic about, rather it's adding to their opportunity and potential for successfully harvesting a game animal that is driving their weapon choice. I hunt with traditional muzzle loading firearms because I truly enjoy the challenge. In the past 3 years I've taken 3 deer with a muzzle loader and I took all of those deer during a short range weapon season when I could have chosen a modern firearm like a shot gun with slugs or a scoped inline, but chose the traditional muzzle loader because that's what I enjoy. Did I miss opportunities at bigger deer? You bet I did, but that doesn't matter. Dedicated muzzle loader seasons should remain for traditional muzzle loaders and traditional technology. If we allow the technological advancements in then seasons will have to be adjusted to protect resources. In the end this equals less opportunity.

[@MrWillBison]

The modern inlines are a testament to advancements in ML technology. I think a line should be established at some point and look at the spirit of a ML season. The whole point, seems to me, is the challenge of using a primitive firearm.

[@rayc.1396]

Those who want these changes are doing so because they aren't capable of using the traditional muzzle loader. If people want these changes that bad, give them their own season that will last 5 days, Monday through Friday, period. Those hunting conventional muzzle loaders still keep their season. Use of non lead projectiles should be banned across all seasons. Keep the conventional muzzle loaders and those who want their way can hunt in general rifle, hand gun season. I live in Washington where we have a muzzle loader season that basically requires the use of conventional muzzle loader. Idaho could require the use of flintlock muzzle loaders only, that is my way of going.

[@redlemur6073]

😂thor!😂😂😂