250-RICR-60-00-9
250-RICR-60-00-9. Hunting and Trapping Regulations (version Adoption, 08/17/2005 to 08/17/2006)
STATE OF RHODE ISLAND AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT
DIVISION OF FISH AND WILDLIFE
HUNTING REGULATIONS
for the 2005-2006 SEASON
July 28, 2005
AUTHORITY: These regulations are adopted pursuant to RIGL Sections 20-1-2; 20-1-4; 20-1-8;
20-18-1; 20-1-12; and 20-1-13; and Chapters 42–17.1, and in accordance with chapter 42-35,
Administrative Procedures Act, of the Rhode Island General Laws of 1956, as amended.
HUNTING REGULATIONS FOR THE 2005-2006 SEASON
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STATE OF RHODE ISLAND AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT
FISH AND WILDLIFE
R.I. Hunting Regulations
for the 2005 - 2006 Season
TABLE OF CONTENTS
RULE 1: PURPOSE.........................................................................................................3
RULE 2: AUTHORITY......................................................................................................3
RULE 6: DEFINITIONS ...................................................................................................4
RULE 7: REGULATIONS................................................................................................6
PART I: GENERAL DEER HUNTING REGULATIONS..........................................6
PART II: MUZZLELOADING DEER SEASON .........................................................8
PART III: SHOTGUN DEER SEASON....................................................................10
PART IV: ARCHERY DEER SEASON....................................................................12
PART V: SPECIAL DEER SEASONS .....................................................................15
PART VI: BLOCK ISLAND DEER SEASON...........................................................20
PART VII: COOPERATIVE HUNTING PROGRAM...............................................22
PART VIII: MIGRATORY GAME BIRDS.................................................................25
PART IX: UPLAND GAME.........................................................................................27
PART X: WILD TURKEY............................................................................................31
PART XI: FURBEARERS ..........................................................................................34
PART XII: REPTILES AND AMPHIBIANS..............................................................38
PART XIII: MANAGEMENT AREAS........................................................................39
PART XIV: GENERAL................................................................................................42
RULE 8: EFFECTIVE DATE.........................................................................................45
HUNTING REGULATIONS FOR THE 2005-2006 SEASON
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STATE OF RHODE ISLAND AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT
FISH AND WILDLIFE
R.I. Hunting Regulations
for the 2005 - 2006 Season
RULE 1 PURPOSE
The purpose of these rules and regulations is to establish hunting
seasons; to set the possession and bag limits; and to regulate the
manner of hunting in order to efficiently manage the wildlife resources
of Rhode Island.
RULE 2 AUTHORITY
These rules and regulations are promulgated pursuant to Chapter 42-
17.1, Department of Environmental Management, and Sections 20-1-2;
20-1-4; 20-1-8; 20-1-12; 20-1-13; 20-18-1, and in accordance with
Chapter 42-35, Administrative Procedures, of the Rhode Island General
Laws of 1956, as amended.
RULE 3 APPLICATION
The terms and provisions of these rules and regulations shall be
liberally construed to permit the Department to effectuate the purposes
of state law, goals, and policies.
RULE 4 SEVERABILITY
If any provision of these Rules and Regulations, or application thereof
to any person or circumstances, is held invalid by a court of competent
jurisdiction, the validity of the remainder of the Rules and Regulations
shall not be affected thereby.
RULE 5 SUPERSEDED RULES AND REGULATIONS (#3199)
On the effective date of these Rules and Regulations, all previous
Rules and Regulations, and any policies regarding the administration
and enforcement of Hunting Regulations shall be superseded (#3199).
However, any enforcement action taken by, or application submitted to,
the Department prior to the effective date of these Rules and
Regulations shall be governed by the Rules and Regulations in effect at
the time the enforcement action was taken, or application filed.
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RULE 6 DEFINITIONS
For the purposes of these regulations, the following terms shall have the
following meanings:
antlerless deer - deer having no antlers or antlers less than three (3)
inches in length.
bearded turkey - a turkey that carries a visible beard, i.e., a tuft of stiff
filament-like feathers projecting outward and downward from the center of
the chest.
box trap - any trigger operated device intended to restrain an animal by
confinement in box or cage.
conibear-type trap - "conibear" model traps and similar body-gripping
traps and devices, whether or not enclosed in or comprising part of a box,
tube, or other enclosing device.
crossbow - a bow and string (either compound or recurve) that launches
an arrow, mounted upon a stock, with a trigger unit that holds the string
and limbs under tension until released. The trigger unit must have a
working safety. The minimum crossbow, arrow, and blade restrictions are
further described in Part 4 of these regulations.
daylight fluorescent orange - the color orange having a dominant wave
length between 595 and 606 nanometers, an excitation purity not less
than 85 percent, and a lumination factor not less than 40 percent.
driving deer/cooperative drive - to pursue, drive, chase, or otherwise
frighten or cause a deer to move in a direction toward a person or persons
known to be waiting for a deer.
feeding/baiting - the act of using, placing, giving, exposing, depositing,
distributing, or scattering any material, or any act to maintain the
availability of such material, that attracts wildlife to feed on such material.
jack-lighting - the use (by an individual or in conjunction with others) of
an artificial light at any time to illuminate, jack light, locate, attempt to
locate, or show up wild birds or mammals or any other vertebrates when
that person or persons have in their actual possession, in the passenger
compartment of their vehicle, or in the storage area of a trunk or van,
unless locked in a case, a crossbow, long bow (straight limb, reflex, re-
curve, and compound bow) rifle, gun, or pistol, except in accordance with
these rules and regulations.
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Jamestown (Conanicut Island)/Aquidneck Island - all of Aquidneck
Island with the exception of the city of Newport.
Mainland - Providence, Kent, and Bristol counties; all of Washington
County except New Shoreham (Block Island); and the towns of Tiverton
and Little Compton.
paraplegic - an individual afflicted with paralysis of the lower half of the
body with involvement of both legs.
proficiency testing - the measurable demonstration of skills with bows
and arrows or firearms using a set of standards as determined by the
hunter education program.
small game season - that period of time beginning the third Saturday in
October and ending the last day in February annually (not withstanding
the regulated shotgun season for deer)
species specific traps - characterized by all of the following: triggering
and restraining mechanisms are enclosed within a housing; triggering and
restraining mechanisms are only accessible through a single opening
when set; the access opening does not exceed 2 inches in diameter; the
triggering mechanism can only be activated by a pulling force; has a
swivel mounted anchoring system.
RULE 7 REGULATIONS
As follows:
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RULE 7 - PART I
GENERAL DEER HUNTING REGULATIONS
1.1
All deer must be tagged in a conspicuous manner by the hunter killing
same, immediately after taking, with the tag portion of the deer permit for
the specific season (i.e., shotgun, archery, muzzleloader and/or
paraplegic/double amputee hunter). This tag must be separated from the
permit with the appropriate month, day, and time of kill or other information
completed as required, and signed by the hunter. The tag must remain
attached to the deer until the animal is processed for consumption or
prepared for taxidermy. It will be considered prima-facie evidence of
hunting without a valid deer permit if any portion of the deer permit/tag is
altered or separated in any manner. All deer must be checked by THE
hunter killing same, within 24 hours of taking at Department operated check
stations, environmental police officers or vendor check stations (also see
3.5). Only specified vendors will be permitted to check deer and sell
additional permits. The list of approved vendors will be available prior to
the season.
1.2
A permit must be purchased for each individual deer taken, in accordance
with the bag limits for each season type.
1.3
Hunting, pursuing, or molesting deer below mean high tidal water, or while
deer are swimming in any waters of the state is prohibited.
1.4
The construction and/or use of permanent tree stands, or the use of nails,
spikes, bolts, or climbing devices which may damage trees, is prohibited on
state property or on private property without the permission of the
landowner.
1.5
The use of electronic deer calls is prohibited at all times.
1.6
The use of natural or artificial scents and mouth or hand powered deer calls
to attract deer is permitted.
1.7
The use of decoys to attract deer is prohibited.
1.8
Written permission is required to hunt deer on privately owned land
(20-15-1 d). Such written permission must be carried at all times while
deer hunting, and failure to have such written permission is prima-facie
evidence of not having written permission to hunt such land. Written
permission must be shown to any authorized person upon demand, and
must be presented when checking the deer.
1.9
Only one firearm or bow may be possessed in the field per individual
hunter, while hunting deer.
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1.10 The Division retains the right to sample any and all tissues for population
and disease management.
1.11 Driving deer by parties of over five (5) people is prohibited.
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PART II
DEER – MUZZLELOADING DEER SEASON
2.1
MAINLAND MUZZLELOADING SEASON AND BAG LIMITS:
Muzzleloader deer hunters may purchase permits to take three (3) deer;
one (1) either sex, and two (2) antlerless as described below:
Permit Required
A.
EITHER SEX PERMIT – STATE AND PRIVATE LAND
Either sex muzzleloader deer permit is usable for the taking of one
deer of either sex in Providence, Kent, and Bristol Counties;
Washington County (except New Shoreham, a.k.a Block Island);
and the towns of Little Compton and Tiverton. This permit may be
purchased at any time.
October 31 – November 18, 2005 on state and private land.
B. EXTENDED ANTLERLESS PERMIT – STATE AND PRIVATE LAND
The two antlerless muzzleloader deer permits are usable for the
taking of two (2) deer in Providence, Kent, and Bristol Counties;
Washington County (except New Shoreham, a.k.a Block Island);
and the Towns of Little Compton and Tiverton. These two permits
may be purchased at any time.
October 31-November 18, 2005 on state and private land.
November 24-27 and December 22-26, 2005 on private land only.
Some cities and towns have more restrictive ordinances; check
local ordinances prior to hunting. All other deer hunting regulations
apply (see Part I).
2.2
JAMESTOWN (CONANICUT ISLAND)/AQUIDNECK ISLAND
MUZZLELOADING SEASON AND BAG LIMITS
Jamestown (Conanicut Island)/Aquidneck Island muzzleloader deer hunters
may purchase permits to take two (2) deer; one (1) either sex, and one (1)
antlerless as described below:
Permit Required
a) Either sex-
October 31 – November 18, 2005
b) Antlerless-
October 31- November 18, 2005, November 24-27, 2005 and
December 22-26, 2005
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2.3
A current muzzleloader deer permit is required for the muzzle loading
season. All deer must be conspicuously tagged by the hunter killing same
immediately after killing or taking as provided, and taken by that same
hunter to an Environmental Police Officer or other Department designee for
checking, within 24 hours. Only specified vendors will be permitted to
check deer. The list of approved vendors will be available prior to the
season. (Additionally, see section 1.10)
2.4
During the muzzle loading deer season, all hunters must wear a minimum
of 200 square inches of solid daylight fluorescent orange material,
contained in an outer garment worn above the waist, and visible from all
directions. A fluorescent hat would meet the requirement. EXCEPTIONS:
those hunting raccoon at night or crows over decoys, archers in tree
stands, or waterfowl hunters hunting from a boat or a blind, over water or
field, when done in conjunction with decoys.
2.5
Firearms for muzzle loading deer season are limited to .45 caliber or larger
using percussion caplock, flintlock, and in-line ignition systems using
percussion caps, rifle, or shotshell primers. Only single barrel or double
barrel firearms that must be loaded from the muzzle are allowed. All
conversion kits which use a replacement barrel to convert a typical modern
shotgun into a muzzle loading rifle are prohibited. (Also see section 14.10)
2.6
Ammunition for muzzle loading deer season is limited to a single lead
projectile, including round ball, or maxi ball type projectiles. Sabot rounds
for muzzleloader firearms either lead or jacketed are limited to .43 caliber
or larger. Powder is limited to manufacturers’ specifications. Telescopic
sights are permitted. Possession of modern shotgun shotshells while
hunting is prohibited. A muzzleloader is considered unloaded when the
percussion cap or pan powder is removed.
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PART III
DEER - SHOTGUN DEER SEASON
3.1
MAINLAND SHOTGUN SEASON AND BAG LIMITS:
December 3 - 18, 2005. Shotgun deer hunters may purchase permits to
take three (3) deer; one (1) either sex, and two (2) antlerless as described
below:
Permit Required
A. EITHER SEX SHOTGUN PERMIT – One (1) either sex deer may be
taken in Providence, Kent, and Bristol counties, all of Washington
County (except New Shoreham, a.k.a. Block Island), and the towns of
Tiverton and Little Compton.
December 3 –11, 2005 on both private and state management areas.
December 12 –18, 2005 on private land only.
B. ANTLERLESS SHOTGUN PERMIT – Two (2) antlerless deer may be
taken in Providence, Kent, and Bristol counties, all of Washington
County (except New Shoreham, a.k.a. Block Island), and the towns
of Tiverton and Little Compton.
December 3 –11, 2005 on both private and state management areas.
December 12 –18, 2005 on private land only.
Shotgun deer hunters may purchase permits as follows:
Either-Sex Shotgun Permit: allows for the taking of one deer of either sex
for the first portion of the shotgun season on private and management
lands, then on private land only, during the latter portion of season. This
permit may be purchased at any time.
The Antlerless Shotgun Permit: allows for the taking of two antlerless deer
during either portion of the shotgun season on private and management
lands, then on private land only, during the latter portion of the season.
Permits may be used in any sequence. This permit may be purchased at
any time.
Some cities and towns have more restrictive ordinances; check local
ordinances prior to hunting. All other deer regulations shall apply (see Part I).
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3.2
JAMESTOWN (CONANICUT ISLAND)/AQUIDNECK ISLAND SHOTGUN
SEASON AND BAG LIMITS:
Jamestown (Conanicut Island)/ Aquidneck Island Shotgun deer hunters
may purchase permits to take two (2) deer; one (1) either sex, and one (1)
antlerless as described below:
Permit Required
(a) Either sex
December 3-18, 2005
(b) Antlerless
December 3-18, 2005
3.3 No person shall take deer with a shotgun capable of holding more than five
shells, unless it is plugged with a one-piece filler which is incapable of
removal without disassembling the gun.
3.4
Ammunition permitted for shotgun deer season includes rifled slugs or
sabot round. Buckshot is limited to double 00 or larger. Buckshot in 20-
gauge is prohibited. Shotguns of 10, 12, 16, or 20-gauge are allowed.
3.5
All deer must be conspicuously tagged by the hunter killing same
immediately after killing or taking as provided, and taken by that same
hunter to a state-operated checking station for checking within 24 hours
during the December 3-11 portion of the season. Vendor check stations
may check deer during the latter portion, December 12-18, 2005.
(Additionally, see section 1.10)
3.6
Deer killed or taken on the last day may be checked through a check
station no later than 6:00 PM on that date, or by an Environmental Police
Officer within 24 hours of taking.
3.7
During the shotgun season for deer, all hunters, except waterfowl hunters
hunting from a boat or a blind, over water or field, when done in conjunction
with decoys, must wear a minimum of 500 square inches of solid daylight
fluorescent orange material, contained in an outer garment and worn above
the waist, a portion of which must include a head covering visible from all
directions.
3.8
All other hunting, except otherwise provided, under 4.1, 4.2, 5.1, 9.2, 9.3,
and 11.9 is prohibited during the period of December 3 -18, 2005.
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PART IV
DEER - ARCHERY DEER SEASON
4.1
MAINLAND ARCHERY SEASON AND BAG LIMITS:
October 1, 2005 – January 31, 2006 inclusive.
Archery deer hunters may purchase permits to take three (3) deer: one (1)
either sex and two (2) antlerless on state or private land as described
below:
Permit Required
A. Either Sex Archery Permit – state or private land in Providence, Kent,
and Bristol Counties; all of Washington County (except New Shoreham,
a.k.a. Block Island), and the towns of Tiverton and Little Compton. This
permit may be purchased at any time.
B.
Antlerless Archery Permit – state or private land in Providence, Kent,
and Bristol Counties; all of Washington County (except New Shoreham,
a.k.a. Block Island), and the towns of Tiverton and Little Compton. This
permit may be purchased at any time.
4.1.1 In total, all mainland archery deer hunters, including those with
adaptive aid/crossbow permits as delineated in 4.4.1, may purchase
permits to take a total of three deer.
4.2
JAMESTOWN (CONANICUT ISLAND)/AQUIDNECK ISLAND ARCHERY
SEASON AND BAG LIMITS
Jamestown (Conanicut Island)/Aquidneck Island archery hunters may
purchase permits to take two (2) deer: one (1) either sex and one (1)
antlerless, except as provided under 4.3.
Permit required:
(a) Either sex permit
October 1, 2005-January 31, 2006
(b) Antlerless permit
October 1, 2005-January 31, 2006
4.2.1 In total, Jamestown (Conanicut Island)/Aquidneck Island archery
deer hunters including those with adaptive aid/crossbow permits may
purchase permits to take a total of two (2) deer.
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4.3
Archery deer hunting is prohibited during Junior Archery Hunting Weekend:
September 24-25, 2005 except for those junior hunters in possession of a
valid Rhode Island Junior Hunting License, age 12 through 14 years of age.
Junior hunters must be accompanied by at least one parent or legal
guardian who is at least 21 years of age or older and holds a valid Rhode
Island hunting/archery license. An adult may accompany no more than two
junior hunters at one time. Adults are prohibited from carrying bows. Junior
hunters may use either the first mainland permit or the antlerless archery
permits as provided for in 4.1.
4.4
No bow used in hunting deer shall be equipped with any mechanical device
for drawing or releasing the arrow unless in accordance with RIGL 20-15-4
and section 4.4.1 and 4.4.2 of these regulations for those 100% disabled
and those 65 years of age or older. A bow string release device whereby
the bow is hand held, hand drawn, and finger released is permitted.
Hunters with a valid adaptive aid/crossbow permit as defined in section
4.4.1 and 4.4.2 may utilize adaptive aids.
4.4.1
A special archery adaptive aid/crossbow deer permit may only be
obtained through DEM Division of Licensing, 235 Promenade
Street, Providence, RI 02908, (401) 222-3576. An official
application for permit issuance signed by a physician for a first
time applicant application is required, accompanied by an official
document on the physician's printed letterhead stating the
certification of disability in accordance with RIGL 20-15-4. A
copy of the permit will be sufficient in subsequent years for
reapplication. The permit card and associated record log must be
carried at all times while deer hunting with crossbow or adaptive
aids and must be shown to any authorized person upon demand.
Crossbow/Adaptive Aid evaluation card must be returned by
February 29, 2006 to Fish & Wildlife Field Headquarters,
regardless of success, in order to be eligible in the future.
4.4.2
Hunters 65 or older are permitted to use adaptive aids without a
special permit. No crossbows permitted.
4.5
Archers must use a long bow, re-curve or compound bow capable of not
less than forty (40) pounds at peak draw weight for archers using fixed
blade broadheads, and a minimum of fifty (50) pounds for archers using a
mechanical broadhead. Only broadhead tipped arrows with at least two (2)
metal cutting edges are allowed. All broadheads must be 7/8 of an inch or
greater at the widest point. Mechanical heads are measured in the “open”
position and must be a minimum of 7/8 of an inch.
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4. 5.1
Only those crossbows meeting the following minimum criteria are
permitted: minimum draw of 150 pounds, minimum width of 24
inches. Expandable broadheads meeting the specifications in 4.5 are
permitted. However, as some crossbow manufacturers specifically
recommend against mechanicals, nothing in this section should be
construed as permitting such use. One (1) field point arrow may be
carried in the quiver for the safe discharge of the crossbow; the field
point arrow must be made distinguishable from the crossbow arrow
by a color difference.
4.6
All deer must be immediately tagged by the hunter after killing or taking as
provided, and taken by that same hunter to an Environmental Police
Officer, or other Department designee for checking within 24 hours.
(Additionally, see 1.10)
4.7
All archers including crossbow deer hunters, when traveling to and from a
tree stand during the deer muzzle-loading season must wear above the
waist a minimum of 200 square inches of solid daylight fluorescent orange
visible from all directions. A fluorescent hat meets this requirement.
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PART V
SPECIAL DEER SEASONS
Prudence and Patience Islands
5.1
Prudence and Patience Island archery season dates are:
October 21, 2005 - January 8, 2006 if quota has not been reached.
Permit Required:
A. Either sex – This permit may be purchased at any time.
B. Antlerless – This permit may be purchased at any time.
The only legal method of deer hunting on Prudence and Patience Islands
is by archery, including crossbows as specifically permitted in sections
4.4.1, 4.4.2 and 4.5.1. All other archery regulations apply. Exemption:
hunters complying with section 5.18 and 5.19 for paraplegic and double
amputees may use shotguns as permitted in 5.24.
5.2
The limit on Prudence and Patience Islands is one (1) deer of either sex,
and one (1) antlerless for an island total of two (2) deer.
5.3
A Prudence/Patience Island Archery Deer Permit (deer tag) is required to
hunt on Prudence and Patience Islands.
5.4
While archery deer hunting, no possession of firearms is permitted, except
for those licensed to participate during the special paraplegic hunter deer
season.
5.5 Reservations will be required on the south and north ends and the Barre
Unit of Prudence Island, and Patience Island for the first two weekends and
two weekday periods: Friday through Sunday (10/21-10/23); Monday
through Friday (10/24-28); and Saturday and Sunday (10/29-30) and
Monday through Friday (10/31-11/4). A lottery system will assign hunters in
these areas.
5.5.1
Archery deer hunting will be permitted on the Heritage Property
December 1-15, 2005. Archers will be limited to the taking of
antlerless deer only. Archers may utilize either sex or antlerless
permits, provided that they take antlerless deer only.
5.5.2 Reservations are required to hunt the Heritage Property.
Reservations will be valid for three (3) consecutive days:
December 1-3, 4-6, 7-9, 10-12, and 13-15, 2005.
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5.5.3
A lottery system will assign hunters on the Heritage Property during
the reservation period. Lottery applications may be obtained at
DEM Division of Licensing or by mailing a request with a
self-addressed stamped envelope (9½" x 4" envelope) to:
HERITAGE DEER LOTTERY, Division of Fish and Wildlife, P.O.
Box 218, West Kingston, RI 02892, or you may acquire an
application online at www.dem.ri.gov. Applications must be
received by the Division during the period of September 20 through
October 20, 2005 and postmarked by the 20th of October. Two
individuals may apply on one application; however, an individual
may only apply once in the lottery system. Duplicate, illegible,
incorrect, or incomplete forms will be rejected. Any applicant found
to have more than one application for the 2005 season lottery shall
be ineligible for participation in the lottery for the 2005 season. The
lottery reservation is non-transferable and non-negotiable. In order
to be eligible for preferential status for next hunting season’s lottery,
all hunters, regardless of hunting activity or success, must return
their Hunter Survey Card by Jan. 31, 2006.
5.5.4 A total of 18 hunters may be assigned per reservation period on the
Heritage Property. Hunters will be provided with a map, safety zone
and parking restrictions. Compliance with these and all other
hunting regulations are required for future hunting privileges on this
parcel.
5.6
A lottery system will assign hunters on Prudence Island and Patience Island
during the reservation period. Lottery applications may be obtained at DEM
Division of Licensing, designated deer check stations, vendors, or by mailing a
request with a self-addressed stamped envelope (9½ x 4") to:
DEER LOTTERY, Division of Fish and Wildlife, P.O. Box 218, West Kingston,
RI 02892, or you may acquire an application online at www.dem.ri.gov.
Application dates will be July 8 through August 19, 2005. Two individuals may
apply on one application; however, an individual may only apply once in the
lottery system. Duplicate, illegible, incorrect, or incomplete forms will be
rejected. The lottery reservation is non-transferable and non-negotiable. In
order to be eligible for preferential status for next hunting season’s lottery, all
hunters, regardless of hunting activity or success, must return their Hunter
Survey Card by Jan. 31, 2006.
5.7
On the south and north ends of Prudence Island 50 hunters per day,
respectively, may be assigned. On Patience Island and the Barre Unit on
Prudence Island, 10 hunters per day, respectively, may be assigned.
5.8
A quota of 310 deer may be taken, or as provided in section 5.11. Hunting
on the Prudence and Patience Islands will end the earlier of either January
8, 2006 or when quota is reached.
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5.9
All deer taken on Prudence Island must be immediately tagged by the
hunter and checked by that same hunter through the check station
designated by the Department of Environmental Management, and a leg
seal must be attached to the deer prior to leaving Prudence Island. The leg
seal must remain attached to the deer until processed for consumption.
(Additionally see 1.10)
5.10 All deer taken on Patience Island must be immediately tagged by the hunter
and checked by that same hunter through the deer check station on
Prudence Island or on the mainland by contacting an Environmental Police
Officer or other department designee within 24 hours after killing or taking.
(Additionally see 1.10)
5.11 The Division of Fish and Wildlife retains the right to alter the number of
hunters, number of days hunted, and total deer harvested within the above
season, if conditions warrant.
5.12 Proficiency testing is required of all archery hunters hunting deer on
Patience and Prudence Islands, either private or state-owned lands. The
proficiency card is valid for two years from the date of issue and must be
carried while hunting.
5.13 For private lands, written permission of the landowner must be obtained,
and as required by local ordinance, must be countersigned by the Chief of
Police or his/her representative on the Island.
5.14 On Prudence Island, during the period October 1, 2005 through January 8,
2006 inclusive, the casting of rays of artificial lights, including spotlights,
headlights, or other artificial light, at any time, on any highway or roadway,
whether public or private, or on any field, woodland, residential property, or
forest, or on any building or farm animal, for the purpose of spotting,
locating, or attempting to spot or locate any wild animal or wild bird is
prohibited.
5.15 On Patience Island, there shall be no hunting of any species of wildlife,
except archery hunting for deer, as provided. The possession of any
firearm at any time on Patience Island, except for archery equipment as
prescribed during the established archery season for deer, is prima-facie
evidence of illegal hunting (except as provided in section 5.24).
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5.16 Waterfowl hunting on Prudence Island: The possession of firearms is
permitted while en route to or during waterfowl hunting. Waterfowl hunters
must possess a minimum of six (6) decoys. No ball ammunition may be
possessed. Possession of a loaded firearm more than (10) ten feet above
mean high water is prohibited, except as provided in sections 9.2, 9.3.3,
9.5, & 11.2.
Paraplegic and double amputee hunters on Prudence Island, Portsmouth;
and Fort Greene Army Reserve, Narragansett
5.17 The season for the South End Management Area hunt on Prudence Island
will be:
October 11 – 14, 2005 inclusive; and
The season for Fort Greene will be:
October 18 – 21, 2005 inclusive during legal shooting hours. Availability of
Ft. Greene facility may be subject to change.
5.18 The taking of deer will be limited to paraplegic and double amputee hunters
only. The season bag limit on Prudence is two (2) deer, one either-sex and
one antlerless. Permits may be used in any order. The season bag limit at
Fort Greene is one (1) either sex deer.
5.19
A special hunting permit must be obtained through the DEM Licensing
Division, 235 Promenade St. Providence, RI 02908 (401) 222-3576 by
each applicant prior to the hunt. None will be issued on the Island. An
application signed by a physician for a first-time hunter, or a photocopy of
a previous paraplegic/double amputee hunting license is required.
Hunters for Fort Greene must also complete a registration card and mail it
to R.I. Fish and Wildlife, Box 218, W. Kingston, RI 02892, ATTN: Fort
Greene, and postmarked by September 30, 2005.
5.20 None of the hunter's assistants will be allowed to hunt or carry loaded
firearms at any time. No license is required of the assistants.
5.21 Hunters may participate in either hunt. Only five (5) hunters will be
permitted on Fort Greene. If needed, a lottery will be conducted to choose
the five eligible hunters. Hunters will be notified after the selection. All
hunters and assistants must register upon entering or leaving either
location with the officer-in-charge.
5.22 All deer taken must be checked by an Environmental Police Officer or
Department designee prior to leaving Prudence Island, or for Fort Greene
by a Department designee, or at a state certified vendor check station.
(Additionally see 1.10)
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5.23 All deer wounded, but not recovered, must be reported as soon as possible
to the officer-in-charge.
5.24 Ammunition is limited to slugs –10, 12, 16, or 20 gauge only. Buckshot is
allowed by special permit only, 00 or larger. Hunters may use muzzle
loading firearms on Prudence Island as defined under Muzzle Loading
Deer Season, as defined in section 2.5 and 2.6.
5.25 Once a deer is taken, the successful hunter may no longer carry a firearm
in the field, but may assist other fellow hunter(s).
5.26 Additional restrictions may be required on Fort Greene.
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PART VI
Block Island Deer Season
6.1
Deer hunting season dates for the Town of New Shoreham (Block Island)
is as follows:
Archery Only:
October 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 31, 2005
November 1, 3, 4, 7, 9, 10, 14, 15, 17, 18, 21, 22, 23, 2005
Archery & Shotgun:
November 28, 29, 30, 2005
December 1, 2, 5, 6, 8, 9, 2005
Shotgun:
December 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 19, 20, 22, 2005
January
3, 5, 6, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 17, 19, 20, 23, 24, 26, 27, 30, 31, 2006
February
1, 2, 3, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 2006
6.2
All state-owned land on Block Island is closed to deer hunting for the
2005-2006 season.
6.3
A Block Island archery or shotgun deer permit is required to hunt on Block
Island. A hunter may purchase five (5) Block Island permits. After
checking as provided in section 6.7, a hunter may purchase additional
Block Island Shotgun or Archery Deer Permits to take additional deer on
Block Island, but hunters may not possess more than five (5) permits of
any type at one time.
6.4
In addition to the written permission requirements, all deer hunters on
Block Island must obtain countersigned written permission from the Block
Island Chief of Police or his/her representative on the Island.
6.5
Ammunition permitted for shotgun deer season includes rifled slugs or
sabot round. Shotguns of 10, 12, 16, or 20 gauge are allowed.
6.6
On Block Island, the casting of rays of artificial lights, including spotlights,
headlights, or other artificial light, at any time, on any highway
or roadway, whether public or private, on any field, woodland, residential
property, or forest, or on any building or farm animal, for the purpose of
spotting, locating, or attempting to spot or locate any wild animal or wild
bird is prohibited.
6.7
All deer must be tagged in a conspicuous manner by the hunter killing
same immediately after taking. All deer taken on Block Island must be
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checked by that same hunter through the designated check stations and a
leg seal must be attached to the deer prior to leaving the island, and within
24 hours of taking. The leg seal must remain attached to the deer until
processed for consumption. (Additionally see 1.10)
6.8
Proficiency testing is required of all archery hunters that are hunting deer
on Block Island. The proficiency card is valid for two years from the date of
issue. The proficiency card must be carried while hunting.
6.9
All other deer regulations apply. Equipment permitted for archery season
includes crossbows and adaptive aids as described in sections 4.4.1, 4.4.2,
4.5, and 4.5.1.
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PART VII
COOPERATIVE HUNTING PROGRAM
7.1
Northwest Cooperative – The Northwest Cooperative Deer Hunting
permits serve as written permission for hunting this private land. Turkey
hunting is also permitted on Northwest Cooperative with a valid license
and turkey permit. These permits must be carried in addition to your
individual deer permits.
7.1.1
Archery and muzzleloader deer hunters must have state permits to
hunt the Northwest Cooperative. A permit is required for each season:
Archery, Oct. 1 - Jan 31; Muzzleloader, Oct. 29 – Nov. 18, 24, 25, 2005
and Dec. 22 – 26, 2005. The Division reserves the right to alter the
number of hunters, permits, or days of hunting as conditions warrant.
Permits must be returned by February 15, 2006. Hunters must return
permit to be eligible for the next season's permit.
7.1.2
Permits are available after September 1, and may be obtained by
sending a 9½" x 4" self-addressed stamped envelope to: NORTHWEST
COOP, R.I. Division of Fish and Wildlife, P.O. Box 218, West Kingston, RI
02892. Indicate the permit-type (e.g. archery, muzzleloader, or both).
7.1.3
Shotgun deer hunters must check in and out of the Durfee Hill
check station daily December 3 -11, 2005 only for the Northwest
Cooperative hunting area. No shotgun hunting permitted December 12-
18, 2005.
7.2
Francis Carter Preserve Cooperative Hunting Area (formerly known as
United Nuclear) is restricted to archery hunting of deer from November 1 –
December 31, 2005 and as provided in sections 7.2.1 through 7.2.5 of
these regulations. No hunting of any other species of wildlife is permitted.
All regulations in General Deer Part I and Archery Deer Part IV of these
regulations shall apply.
7.2.1
No firearms are allowed on the property at any time. No vehicles
of any kind are allowed on the property.
7.2.2
The construction of or use of permanent tree stands is prohibited.
The use of nails, spikes, bolts, or devices that may damage trees is
prohibited. Climbing tree stands are permitted. Tree stands must be
removed at the end of the season.
7.2.3
Proficiency testing is required for all archery hunters on the Carter
Preserve. The proficiency cards are valid for two years from the date of
issuance and must be carried while hunting. Either Prudence/Patience
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Island or Hunter Ethics/Landowner Relations proficiency cards are
permitted.
7.2.4
A Carter Preserve Hunting Permit is required and will serve as
written permission to hunt this private land. This permit must also be
carried while hunting.
7.2.5
Permits will be issued for four two-week periods: November 1-14
and 15-30, December 1–14 and 15–31, 2005. A limited number of permits
will be issued for each period. Two individuals may apply on one
application; however, an individual may only apply once. Permits are non-
transferable. Applications are available by sending a self-addressed
stamped envelope to RI Division of Fish and Wildlife, Box 218, West
Kingston, RI 02892 or downloaded from the web at www.dem.ri.gov.
Duplicate, illegible or incomplete applications will be rejected.
Applications will be available beginning September 1, 2005–October 15,
2005. Applications postmarked after October 15 will not be accepted.
Permits will be chosen by lottery. Hunters must return their permit by
January 15, 2006, regardless of activity or success, to be eligible for the
next season’s hunt.
7.3
Beavertail Cooperative Archery Deer Hunting Area
November 7, 2005 – January 31, 2006. No hunting on weekends prior to
December 31, 2005. The Jamestown (Conanicut Island) either sex and
antlerless archery deer permits are valid for this season.
7.3.1 No hunting of any other species of wildlife is permitted. All
regulations in General Deer Part I and Archery Deer Part IV of these
regulations shall apply.
7.3.2
No firearms are allowed on the property at any time.
7.3.3
The construction of or use of permanent tree stands is prohibited.
The use of nails, spikes, bolts, or devices that may damage trees is
prohibited. Climbing tree stands are permitted. Tree stands must be
removed at the end of the season.
7.3.4
Proficiency testing is required for all archery hunters on the
Beavertail Cooperative Archery Deer Hunting Area. The proficiency cards
are valid for two years from the date of issuance and must be carried while
hunting. Either Prudence/Patience Island or Hunter Ethics/Landowner
Relations proficiency cards are permitted.
7.3.5
A Beavertail Cooperative Archery Deer Hunting Area Permit is
required and will serve as written permission to hunt this private land.
This permit must also be carried while hunting. Hunters must return their
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card regardless of activity or success by February 15, 2006 in order to be
eligible for next season.
7.3.6
Countersigned permission of the chief of police or his/her designee
is required. Archers must reserve to hunt on the official sign-in log at the
police station. Ten (10) hunters will be permitted per day on a first come
first served basis. Hunters may sign up for three (3) slots per week, no
more than 14 days in advance. Unused slots must be cancelled.
Successful hunters must also cancel any reserved slots. Hunters will be
provided with a map, safety zone and parking restrictions. Compliance
with these and all other hunting regulations is required for future hunting
privileges on this parcel. The number of hunters and days of hunting are
subject to change.
7.3.7 All Beavertail Coop hunting subject to federal approval.
7.4
Grills Preserve Cooperative Hunting Permit
7.4.1 Hunting for white-tailed deer and turkey is permitted at the Grills
Preserve-Westerly Land Trust Property located west of Bowling Lane and
Route 91 in Bradford, RI. Special permits to hunt Grills preserve may be
obtained from RIDEM Fish and Wildlife. Permits available after September
1, and may be obtained by sending a self-addressed 9½" x 4" stamped
envelope to: GRILLS PRESERVE COOP, R.I. Division of Fish and
Wildlife, P.O. Box 218, West Kingston, RI 02892.
7.4.2 Hunting is permitted only during the Archery and Muzzleloader
portions of the deer season in accordance with the rules and regulations
set forth by RIDEM.
7.4.3 Turkey hunting is permitted in accordance with rules for the
established turkey seasons by RIDEM.
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PART VIII
*MIGRATORY GAME BIRDS
*Subject to Federal Approval
8.1
Mourning Doves -The open season for mourning doves is statewide:
September 24 – October 10, 2005, inclusive;
October 15 – November 20, 2005, and
December 28 - January 12, 2006, inclusive.
Shooting hours are:
First split: 12:00 noon to sunset.
Second and third split: sunrise to sunset.
Daily bag/possession limits: 12/24.
8.2
Rails -The open season for rails is:
September 3, 2005 – November 11, 2005, inclusive.
Daily bag/possession limits:
King & Clapper Rail - 5/10, singly or in aggregate
Sora & Virginia Rail - 5/10, singly or in aggregate
8.3
Common snipe: The open season for common snipe is:
September 3 – November 11, 2005
Daily bag/possession limits: 5/10
8.4
Woodcock: The open season for woodcocks is:
November 3 - Dec 2, 2005
Daily bag/possession limits: 3/6.
8.5
Crows: The open season for crows is:
August 19 – October 9, 2005 - Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays only.
October 15 - November 27, 2005, all inclusive.
December 23, 2005 – April 22, 2006 - Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays
only.
Hunting hours for crows are 1/2 hour before sunrise to 1/2 hour after sunset.
Except on Northern Prudence Island Management Area, the season is
January 9 –31, 2006 inclusive. No daily bag or possession limit.
8.6 Allowed methods of taking and prohibited methods of taking migratory birds
and waterfowl, are the same as set forth in 50 CFR 20 (sub parts A through
N) of the U.S. Department of the Interior, Fish and Wildlife Service, made
under the provisions of an Act of Congress relating to migratory birds and
waterfowl. A HIP permit is required for hunting all migratory birds.
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8.7 Canada Goose: The open season for Canada goose is:
September 1 - 30, 2005.
Daily bag limit is 8, 16 in possession [subject to Federal approval].
A permit must be obtained from the Division of Fish and Wildlife prior to
hunting during the special September Canada Goose Season.
The permit must be returned to: Division of Fish and Wildlife, P.O. Box 218,
West Kingston, RI 02892, per date designated on permit regardless of
hunting success. Hunters must return the permit to be eligible for the 2006
Special Goose Season.
8.8
Sea Ducks: The season for sea ducks (eider, long-tailed duck [old squaw],
& scoter) is:
October 8, 2005 – January 22, 2006
Daily bag/possession limits: 7/14, no more than four of which may be any
one species.
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PART IX
UPLAND GAME
9.1
Legal shooting hours for all game birds and mammals, except dove, turkey,
migratory birds, coyote, deer, and raccoon will be sunrise to sunset, except
as otherwise provided. On October 15, 2005, legal shooting hours will be
7:00 AM to sunset.
9.2
Open season for Fox, Gray Squirrels, Cottontail Rabbits, and Snowshoe
Hare is as follows:
October 15, 2005 through the last day of February EXCEPT during shotgun
deer season (December 3-18, 2005). State land will remain open
December 12 – 18, 2005.
Prudence Island:
November 1, 2005 - November 30, 2005 EXCEPT on northern
Prudence Island Management Area the season is: January 9–31,
2006 inclusive. South Prudence and Patience Management Areas
closed to shotgun small game hunting.
Small game hunting is closed statewide except for New Shoreham (Block
Island) during the shotgun deer season, December 3-11, 2005.
State land management will reopen December 12-18, 2005.
Daily Bag limits:
Cottontail rabbits – three (3);
Snowshoe hare – one (1);
Gray squirrels – five (5).
There is no bag limit for fox.
9.3
Open season for Ruffed Grouse, Bobwhite Quail, & Pheasant is as follows:
Ruffed Grouse & Quail: October 15 - December 2, 2005.
Ruffed grouse hunting is CLOSED in the Arcadia Management Area.
Ringneck Pheasant: October 15, 2005 - January 15, 2005. Season limit: 12
birds.
Closed during shotgun deer season December 3 – December 18, except
State Management Areas, which are open December 12–18, 2005 during
the private land shotgun deer season.
9.3.1
Pheasant Permit:
Hunters are required to purchase a pheasant permit ($15.50) of six
(6) tags in order to hunt pheasants. Upon harvesting a pheasant,
hunter must detach a tag from the permit and affix the pheasant tag
to the bird’s leg. Pheasant(s) in possession without an attached
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pheasant tag will be in violation of regulations. Hunters may
purchase two (2) pheasant permits per season.
9.3.2
Season and Bag Limits
Daily bag limit is two (2) pheasants. Season limit is twelve (12)
pheasants, EXCEPT in Newport and Bristol counties where the limit
will be two male pheasants.
Ruffed Grouse: one (1) bird daily
Bobwhite Quail: three (3) birds daily
9.3.3
Prudence Island:
November 1 - 30, 2005 - EXCEPT that on northern Prudence Island
Management Area the season is January 9 – 31, 2006, inclusive.
South Prudence and Patience Management Areas are closed to
shotgun small game hunting.
9.3.4
On New Shoreham (Block Island), the open season on male
ring-necked pheasants, with a daily limit of two male pheasants, is
as follows:
November 2, 16
December 7, 21, 23, 28
January 4, 18, 25
Daily bag limit (2) male pheasants
9.4 Game Propagation Permit for pheasants:
No person shall possess a live, artificially propagated pheasant
without having a valid game propagation permit in his/her possession.
9.4.1 Each artificially propagated pheasant must be tagged upon harvest
for identification with a tag supplied by the Division, at cost to the
game propagation permitee.
9.4.2 Permits are available from the Division of Licensing, Room 360, 235
Promenade Street, Providence, RI 02908. Such permit shall be
issued upon a demonstration that the applicant has met each of the
following requirements:
a. Payment of five dollars ($5.00) permit fee;
b. Presentation of proof that the applicant is a bonafide
hunting club at the time of the application or application of
renewal; and
c. Presentation of proof that the applicant is a bonafide
hunting club owning a single body of land consisting of
twenty-five (25) or more acres at the time of the application
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or application of renewal (hereinafter referred to as the
‘site’).
9.4.3 Each game propagation permitee must keep an accurate record of all
pheasants held by it; how, when, and where acquired; how many
released and when released; and how many taken on the site.
Permittee must provide this information to the Department within
twenty-four (24) hours of the receipt of a request for such records
from a Department staff member or no later than March 15th
following the closure of the season.
9.4.4 Each game propagation permitee is authorized to release and
harvest pheasants upon its site during the pheasant hunting season
provided above in Section 9.3 for the taking on the site by club
members and their guests provided the following restrictions are
observed:
a. Pheasants may only be taken by hunters with a valid Rhode
Island license. Hunters are not required to have a state
pheasant permit; however, hunters must tag each harvested
pheasant with the game propagation tag as required in 9.4.1
and 9.4.2.
b. Hunters may not exceed the daily bag limit for pheasant
provided above in 9.3.2, i.e., no more than two (2) may be
harvested on the site during any day per hunter.
9.4.5 If a game propagation permitee is found to have provided false
information in conjunction with its application pursuant to Section
9.4.2, fails to comply with Section 9.4.3, or if it or a member or guest
violates Section 9.4.3, the subject permit shall be revoked for the
remainder of the season and the action of the permitee or its member
shall be considered if and when the permitee applies for re-issuance
of a permit. Pursuant to RI Gen. Laws, Chapter 42-17.7, a permitee
who feels aggrieved by an enforcement action to revoke the subject’s
permit and who seeks an adjudicative hearing must seek such
hearing by filing a written request with the Administrative Adjudication
Division, 235 Promenade St., Providence, RI 02908 within twenty
(20) calendar days of receipt of notice of revocation. A permitee who
feels aggrieved by a permit denial and seeks an adjudicative hearing
must seek such hearing by filing a written request with the
Administrative Adjudication Division, 235 Promenade St.,
Providence, RI 02908 within thirty (30) calendar days of receipt of the
contested agency action.
9.5
The hunting seasons on woodchucks, crows, English sparrows, starlings,
and rock doves is closed on Prudence Island at all times, EXCEPT during
the period November 1 through November 30, annually, or as otherwise
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provided. South Prudence and Patience Management Areas are closed to
shotgun small game hunting.
9.6
The hunting of any species of wildlife EXCEPT white-tailed deer, coyote,
and waterfowl as provided, or as otherwise provided, is prohibited in
Providence, Kent, Washington, Newport, and Bristol Counties during the
annual shotgun deer season.
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PART X
WILD TURKEY
10.1 Spring Turkey Seasons. Dates for hunting wild turkey are:
A. Special Season - Paraplegic hunters April 22 and 23, 2006 (see
10.3)
B. Junior Turkey Hunting Weekend April 22 and 23, 2006 (see 10.4)
C. Statewide: April 27 - May 29, 2006
Bag Limit is one (1) bearded turkey. Applicants may obtain only one type of
spring turkey permit per season (see 10.7, 10.8, 10.9).
10.2 Fall Archery Season: Archery hunters are permitted to take (1) either sex
turkey in the fall by special permit.
A. Season Dates: November 19 to 27, 2005
B. Hunting hours are one half hour before sunrise until sunset.
C. Legal bows must meet the definition of a legal bow in sections 4.5
and 4.5.1.
D. Possession of a firearm while archery hunting for turkey is
prohibited.
Birds must be tagged immediately upon taking and checked at an
authorized check station in accordance with regulation 10.16.
10.3
Special Paraplegic season:
A. A special turkey permit must be obtained from the DEM Division
of Fish and Wildlife. Hunting in this season will be limited to
paraplegic hunters only.
B. An application signed by a physician for a first-time hunter is
required.
C. None of the hunter’s assistants will be allowed to hunt or carry
firearms at any time.
D. All turkeys taken must be checked at an official state designated
checking station on the day of taking.
10.4 Junior Turkey Hunting Weekend
10.4.1
Wild turkey hunting is prohibited during Junior Turkey Hunting
Weekend except for those junior hunters in possession of a valid
Rhode Island hunting license, age 12 through 14 years of age.
Junior hunters must be accompanied by at least one parent or
legal guardian at least 21 years of age or older who holds a valid
Rhode Island hunting/archery license. An adult may accompany
no more than two junior hunters at one time. The accompanying
adult is prohibited from carrying firearms and bows.
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10.4.2 Bag limit is one (1) bearded turkey per license per year.
10.4.3 An adult accompanying a junior hunter may not carry a bow or
firearm while hunting, but is permitted to assist the junior in calling
the bird.
10.5
Permits for hunting wild turkey may be purchased from the DEM Division
of Licensing and/or designated vendors. The Division reserves the right
to alter the number of permits and the number of hunting days at any
time.
10.6
The hunting of wild turkey is allowed in the following areas: Providence
County; Kent County; Washington County; as well as Tiverton and Little
Compton in Newport County.
10.7
Spring hunting hours are from one half hour before sunrise to 1:00 P.M.
Eastern Daylight Time, daily, provided that all hunters leave the woods
no later than 1:00 P.M.
10.8
The bag and possession limit is one (1) bearded turkey in the spring
season and (1) either sex turkey in the fall season.
10.9
The methods of taking are limited to shotguns, gauges 10, 12, 16, and
20 only, with shot sizes 4, 5, and 6 magnum loads only; and by archery
equipment consisting of a long bow (straight limb, reflex, recurve, and
compound bow) of not less than forty (40) pounds pull, and broadhead
arrows with at least two cutting edges seven eighths inches (7/8") or
greater at the widest point. A bow string release device where the bow is
hand held, hand drawn and finger released is allowed.
10.10
The use of any other firearm, live decoy(s), baiting, dog(s), cooperative
drive(s), electric calling devices, or any other devices to capture or
ensnare turkeys is prohibited.
10.11
The shooting of turkeys on the roost is prohibited.
10.12
Stalking or attempting to sneak up on a turkey to get a shot is prohibited.
10.13
Hunters must carry a turkey calling device (non-electric) while hunting.
Calling is the only legal method for hunting wild turkey.
10.14
A person is prohibited from hunting, killing, taking or attempt to take, or
possessing any wild turkey unless they possess on their person a permit
to do so. Provided, however, that if an individual has a valid Rhode
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Island hunting license, that individual may call turkeys for individuals with
a valid turkey permit.
10.15
A person receiving a turkey permit is required to sign, in ink, on the face
of the turkey tag prior to hunting. A person killing a wild turkey must
immediately, before transporting or removing the carcass in any manner
from where it was killed, complete and attach to the leg in a conspicuous
manner the turkey tag provided with the permit following instructions
printed on the tag. The said turkey tag must remain attached to the
turkey until the turkey is presented to a duly authorized check station for
checking. The metal tag must remain attached until the carcass is
prepared for consumption or taxidermy. The hunting of wild turkey when
not in possession of a valid, signed, unused "turkey tag" is prima-facie
evidence of hunting without a valid turkey hunting permit.
10.16
Within twenty-four (24) hours after killing a wild turkey, the entire
fully-feathered, intact carcass of the bird must be presented by the
person killing same to a duly authorized check station for the purpose of
being recorded, examined, and sealed. The Division retains the right to
sample any and all tissues deemed necessary.
10.17
Applicants must have a valid current Rhode Island hunting license,
combination, or other such valid license as required by law to hunt in
Rhode Island before purchasing a turkey permit.
10.18
A mandatory hunter survey card will be issued to each permittee in the
spring season. This hunter survey must be returned to the Divisionwithin
10 days of the end of the season WHETHER OR NOT YOU HUNT AND
WHETHER OR NOT YOU WERE SUCCESSFUL.
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PART XI
*FURBEARERS
11.1 *Furbearers as listed by RIGL 20-16-1.
11.2
Raccoon -
Open Season - The open season for raccoon is from 6:00 PM October 1,
2005 through the last day of February 2006, inclusive; excluding the
period of Shotgun Deer Season December 3 – December 18, 2005
inclusive, statewide. Raccoon season will remain open December 12 –
18, 2005 on State Management Areas. In the Town of Portsmouth on
Prudence Island, the season is limited to January 9, 2006 through
the last day of February 2006, inclusive, with written permission of the
landowner and special permit issued by the DEM representative on
Prudence Island. That portion of Providence County east of the
Blackstone River will remain open to raccoon hunting during the period
December 3 – December 18, 2005. Bow hunters with a valid deer
archery permit may take raccoon on Prudence Island during legal deer
hunting hours October 21, 2005 – January 8, 2006 or until the quota is
filled. Special permit not required for bow hunters under this latter
provision.
Bag Limits - There is no season limit on raccoon. There are no limits to
the taking of raccoon by bow hunters as provided above, or under
special permit on Prudence and Patience Islands. There is no bag limit.
11.3 The trapping season for gray fox, mink, muskrat, opossum, rabbit,
raccoon, red fox, skunk, and weasels is November 1, 2005 – January 31,
2006, inclusive. Traps may not be set, staked, or placed prior to 8:00 AM
on opening day, November 1, annually.
11.3.1 The trapping season for beaver on private land is November 1,
2005 – February 28, 2006 inclusive. The trapping season for
beaver on state management areas is December 1, 2005 –
February 28, 2006 inclusive. Traps may not be set, staked, or
placed prior to 8:00 AM on opening day.
Setting traps within 10 feet of a beaver lodge/bank den is
prohibited, unless specifically allowed under a nuisance permit.
All trappers participating in beaver trapping must first obtain both a
Special Permit (no fee) issued by the Division of Fish and Wildlife
Field Headquarters as well as a current RI Trapping License.
There is a bag limit of twenty (20) beaver.
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The number of beaver to be harvested within each watershed will
be determined by the Division of Fish and Wildlife, and the Division
reserves the right to alter the number at any time.
Special beaver permits/tags may be issued for selected
watersheds, or specific sites within watershed. Special
permits/tags are valid only for assigned trap sites.
11.3.2 The trapping season for fisher (Martes pennanti) is December 1-
22, 2005, inclusive. All trappers participating in the fisher trapping
season must obtain a special permit (no fee) from the Division of
Fish and Wildlife, Great Swamp Field Headquarters in addition to
their current R.I. trapping license. The season limit for fisher is four
(4) per permit. All fisher pelts must be presented for tagging, in
accordance with fisher permit requirements but no later than
December 31, 2005. In addition, all fisher carcasses must be turned
in to the Division of Fish and Wildlife, Great Swamp Field
Headquarters. No fisher pelts will be tagged without the
submission of the carcass to Fish and Wildlife. A trapper survey
card will be issued to each permittee and must be returned to the
Division at the close of fisher season. The Division of Fish and
Wildlife reserves the right to alter the number of permits or the
number of fisher harvested at any time. All other general trapping
regulations apply.
All permittees may be subject to administrative penalties of up to
$1,000.00 for violation of any of these regulations pursuant to RIGL
Chapter 42-17-6.
11.4 Body gripping "conibear" type traps in Sizes 110, 120, or 160 (or
equivalent, not to exceed 6 ½ inch jaw spread as measured from hinge to
hinge) are permitted on land or in water; Size 220 (or its equivalent, not to
exceed 8 inch jaw spread) is permitted only if such trap is completely
submerged in water, or placed at least six (6) feet above the surface of
water or ground (i.e., trees). All other "conibear" type traps are prohibited
except as provided in 11.4.1 and 11.5.
11.4.1 For the taking of beaver, the use of 220 and 330 "Conibear" type
traps is permitted only if such traps are completely submerged
underwater and in a vertical position. Trap jaw spread not to
exceed 10 inch opening when set.
11.5 Permits to trap state land are required in addition to a current Rhode Island
trapping license, and are obtainable from the Division of Fish and Wildlife
Field Headquarters, Great Swamp Management Area, West Kingston, RI.
Only the use of body-gripping (i.e., conibear) type traps or “box” (i.e., live)
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traps are permitted on state lands as specified. Body-gripping traps, sizes
110, 120, or 160 or equivalent, are permitted only if such traps are used in
water sets (i.e., all or a portion of the trap is submerged in water) or placed
no less than six (6) feet above the surface of the ground. The use of body
gripping traps, size 220 and 330 or their equivalent (jaw spread not to
exceed ten (10) inches is only permitted if such traps are completely
submerged in water (in a vertical position). All traps placed on state lands
must be affixed with the name, address and Rhode Island trapping license
number of the owner.
11.6 All traps must have the valid license number of the trapper embedded or
cut into the trap, or a metal tag attached to the trap which, as a minimum,
bears the trapper's license number as designated in RIGL 20-16-7.
11.7 There is no open season on bobcat (Lynx rufus) or otter (Lontra
canadensis).
11.8 Possession, at any time, of a pelt or carcass of an otter, fisher, bobcat or
beaver that has not been tagged by an approved state or federal agency is
prima-facie evidence of illegal taking. Otter and bobcat may only be taken
or possessed under RIGL 20-1-1-21 or otherwise must be presented to the
Division of Fish and Wildlife or Division of Enforcement within 24 hours of
taking. Otter or bobcat taken under RIGL 20-16-2, RIGL 20-16-8 or
otherwise shall not be tagged for personal use or ownership. Beaver and
fishers must be tagged in accordance with 11.3.1 and 11.3.2, respectively.
11.9 There is no closed season for red squirrel, woodchuck, or coyote (coyote
pelts must be tagged by the Division of Fish and Wildlife prior to sale or
export).
During the shotgun season for December 3 – December 18, 2005 all
coyote hunters must possess a valid shotgun deer permit. Legal hunting
hours for the above species is sunrise to sunset, see 9.1, except for
coyotes where the legal hunting hours are one-half hour before sunrise to
one-half hour after sunset.
11.10 It is unlawful to take or possess a road-killed furbearer unless with
possession of a current Rhode Island trapping license and the furbearer is
taken during the open season for the species, or as provided for under the
provisions of a current Rhode Island Scientific Collector’s Permit (RIGL
20-1-18). Exceptions may be granted at the discretion of the Division.
11.11 The relocation of beaver Castor canadensis is prohibited without prior
written approval of the Division of Fish and Wildlife.
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11.12 The use of “species specific” type traps as described in the definitions
section of these regulations are permitted for trapping furbearers on
private and state lands. A legal species specific trap is characterized by
all of the following:
11.12.1 Triggering and restraining mechanisms are enclosed within a
housing;
11.12.2 Triggering and restraining mechanisms are only accessible
through a single opening when set;
11.12.3 The access opening does not exceed two inches in diameter;
11.12.4 The triggering mechanism can only be activated by a pulling
force;
11.12.5 A swivel mounted anchoring system.
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PART XII
REPTILES AND AMPHIBIANS
12.1 The removal from the wild, for any purposes, of any reptile or amphibian
(except bullfrogs, green frogs, and snapping turtles) to include their nests
and eggs is prohibited except by special permit. The taking of snapping
turtles at any time is limited to the following methods: turtle traps,
snagging, snaring, grabbing, jugging, bow and arrow, or while legally
fishing. Turtle traps must have a metal tag attached which, at a minimum,
bears the trapper's name and address. Jugs must be marked indelibly with
name and address of trapper. The taking of snapping turtles for
commercial purposes is prohibited except by special permit.
12.2 The following species of reptiles and amphibians to include their nests and
eggs are protected and possession without permit is prohibited at all times:
Timber rattlesnake, Crotalus horridus; northern diamondback terrapin,
Malaclemys terrapin; wood turtle, Clemmys insculpta; eastern box turtle,
Terrapene carolina; spotted turtle, Clemmys guttata; and bog turtle,
Clemmys muhlenbergi.
12.3 The release into the wild of any non-native reptile or amphibian is
prohibited.
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PART XIII
MANAGEMENT AREAS
13.1 The possession of a valid Rhode Island hunting, or combination hunting
and fishing license, serves as the permit to hunt State Management
Areas, and Tidal Lands pursuant to Title 20, Chapter 18, §§ 20-18-2 and
20-18-3 of the General Laws.
13.2
Permit is valid from the first day of dove season in September through the
last day of February, except when check stations are in operation for
upland game at the Great Swamp, Carolina, Durfee Hill, and Arcadia; for
turkey hunting; when special permits are required for deer hunting; or for
waterfowl hunting on state lands. (See current abstract for check station
dates). Bow hunters and muzzleloading hunters hunting deer on state
management areas do not need to check in or out.
13.3
The carrying of firearms on state management areas at any other time is
prohibited except as provided in Management Area Regulations 11.1. On
management areas and designated undeveloped parks, the carrying of
firearms and bows and arrows at any time, except during the open season
for game birds and mammals, and while on shooting ranges, is prohibited.
In addition to above, blank guns are permitted for the purpose of dog
training in designated areas from January 1 to September 30.
13.4
Individuals must check in, and out, of state management hunter check
stations each day they are open for upland season. Check station dates
will be listed in the current Hunting Season Abstract. See section 9.1 for
upland game hours.
13.5
Dog training and all hunting, except for bow hunting for deer, and
waterfowl hunting, as provided, is prohibited on state land during the
period of October 10 – 14, 2005 unless otherwise provided.
13.6
From the period April 1 through August 15, annually, the following are
prohibited except by special permit: trespassing, disturbing, or molesting
of any species of nesting birds on Hope Island in the West Passage,
Gould Island in the Sakonnet River, East Island and West Island off
Sakonnet Point, or Gould Island in the East Passage. All cats, dogs, and
other domestic animals are prohibited at all times upon these Islands,
except that hunting dogs may be used during that period set aside by the
Department for hunting of game birds and mammals on Hope Island only.
13.7
All users of state Management Areas are required to wear solid daylight
fluorescent orange during appropriate seasons; see Part 14.5.6 for details.
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13.8
The possession and/or use of paint guns on state management areas is
prohibited. See RIGL § 32-2-4.
13.9
A hunting license is required when training dogs on wild game on state
management areas, except when participating in state-sanctioned field
trials.
13.10 Complete dressing of game birds and mammals on state property is
prohibited. Field dressing (removal of entrails only) is permitted. Head,
skin, feathers, wings, tails, etc., must remain attached to the carcass.
13.11 Dogs on State Management Areas allowed only under the following rules.
13.11.1
No dogs are allowed to be trained, run, exercised, or be
permitted to run at large on state management areas from
March 15 to August 15, inclusive, without written permission of
the Division of Fish and Wildlife except as otherwise provided in
these regulations (13.5 and 13.12).
13.11.2
Walking of dogs on a leash of not more than 25 feet in length is
permitted on roads and trails only.
13.11.3
All dogs must be wearing a collar with the name and address of
the owner or handler and license tag.
13.12 Dog Training Areas—Dog training is allowed on designated areas only,
between January 1 and September 30. During this period, dogs may run
freely provided they are under the command of the trainer by either voice,
training collar, or check cord.
13.12.1
Areas designated for training dogs are: the Black Farm
Management Area; the Nicholas Farm Management Area north
of the Trestle Trail; and the Arcadia Midway Trail Area confined
to the developed field complex east of Brook Trail, south of
Austin Farm Road and west of the established field edges
comprising the Midway fields area. Field trial areas are as
depicted on maps drawn by the Division of Fish and Wildlife.
13.12.2
Training hours are sunrise to sunset.
13.12.3
All persons using areas for training must possess a hunting
license.
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13.12.4
All dogs using areas must be licensed and have proof of rabies
vaccinations.
13.12.5
Training with live birds (pheasants/quail) is permitted provided
the bird is released unharmed and all necessary permits are
obtained.
13.12.6
Shooting of live birds for training purposes is prohibited.
13.12.7
Sanctioned field trial events may be held at the following
locations by requesting a special permit from the Division of Fish
and Wildlife: Arcadia, Carolina, Durfee Hill Marsh, and
Burlingame (Durfee) Pond, and Nicholas Farm.
13.13 JOHN L. CURRAN STATE PARK/MANAGEMENT AREA
13.13.1
All hunting must be within the inner boundaries of the buffer
zones marked as posted by the Department.
13.13.2
Only shotguns and bow & arrows may be possessed or used
while hunting.
13.13.3
The hunting of and/or possession of Mourning Dove or Wild
Pigeons (Rock Dove) is prohibited.
13.14 SIMMONS MILL POND MANAGEMENT AREA – Only archery
equipment, bow and arrows, may be possessed or used while hunting
white-tailed deer within the Simmons Mill Pond Management in Little
Compton.
13.15 DUTCH ISLAND
The entry upon Dutch Island is prohibited. No person is allowed to enter
onto Dutch Island without the specific written permission of the Director.
13.16 SEAPOWET and EIGHT ROD FARM MANAGEMENT AREA
No Sunday hunting. No shotgun and/or muzzleloader deer hunting on
Seapowet.
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PART XIV
GENERAL
14.1
Taking of moose or bear by any method is prohibited except as provided
under special permit issued by the Director of the Department of
Environmental Management.
14.2
The importation, exportation, possession, liberation, rehabilitation or sale,
offer for sale, barter, or offer for barter of mute swans and their eggs is
prohibited, except by special permit issued by the Director of the
Department of Environmental Management or his/her designee.
14.3
The importation, exportation, possession, liberation, or sale, offer for sale,
barter, or offer for barter of any live or pen-reared wild turkey or eggs of a
wild turkey is prohibited. The possession of any dead untagged wild
turkey is prohibited.
14.4 There is no closed season for monk parakeets or rock doves (wild
pigeons).
14.5 Fluorescent Orange Requirement: Fluorescent orange safety clothing is
required during the hunting season statewide for all hunters. To meet this
requirement, safety clothing must be solid daylight fluorescent orange.
Fluorescent camouflage does not meet this requirement. The hunter
orange must be worn above the waist and be visible in all directions.
Examples that meet the orange requirements are a hat that covers 200
square inches or combination of hat and vest covering 500 square inches.
The following orange requirements apply:
14.5.1
Two hundred (200) square inches by small game hunters during
the small game season.
14.5.2
Two hundred (200) square inches by muzzleloaders during
muzzleloading season.
14.5.3
Two hundred (200) square inches by archers when traveling
to/from stands during muzzleloading deer season.
14.5.4
Five hundred (500) square inches by all hunters and other users
(including archers) during shotgun deer season.
14.5.5
Exempt from orange requirements are:
- waterfowl hunters hunting from a boat or a blind, over water or
field, when done in conjunction with decoys;
- archery deer hunters (except during muzzle-loader and shotgun
deer season);
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- hunters crow hunting over decoys;
- turkey hunters; and
- first segment dove hunters.
14.5.6
All other users of State Management areas, including but not
limited to hikers, bikers, and horseback riders, are required to
wear two hundred (200) square inches of solid daylight
fluorescent orange from the third Saturday in October to the last
day of February, and the last Thursday in April to the last day in
May, annually, EXCEPT as stated above in 14.5.5. The wearing
of 200 square inches of solid daylight fluorescent orange is
required during the established mourning dove and any wild
turkey hunting season as promulgated by regulation.
14.6
All dogs being utilized in hunting activities must wear a collar with a valid
license tag, and the name and address of the owner or handler.
14.7
Waterfowl hunting is permitted no more than 10 feet above mean high
water on Prudence Island, except during the early waterfowl season, as
established by federal regulation and during November 1 - 30.
14.8
Shooting at any animal at any time, while such animal is on a telephone
line, pole, or tower, or electric line, pole, or tower, or any communication
device is prohibited.
14.9
A muzzleloading rifle, not to exceed .40 caliber with round ball and patch
only, may be used to hunt small mammals during the established seasons
for these species. The use of solid ball in a muzzleloading shotgun is
prohibited at all times, except when deer hunting as provided.
14.10 The use or possession of laser sights that project a beam or night-vision
equipment while hunting is prohibited.
14.11 It is prohibited to import or possess game birds for the purpose of
liberation or stocking of said game birds into the State of Rhode Island
without first having received a permit to do so from the Division of Fish
and Wildlife. Persons holding a commercial game license or shooting
preserve license may liberate game birds or mammals in connection with
field trials and shooting preserves. See RIGL 20-2-16.1, 20-2-29, and 20-
17-1.
14.12 Feeding any black bear (Ursus Americanus) is prohibited. Intentionally
using any method(s) to attract or entice a black bear is prohibited.
14.13 Feeding and baiting wildlife in Rhode Island: feeding wild waterfowl or wild
cervids is not permitted any time in the state of Rhode Island except:
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14.13.1 Under a license or permit issued by the Department pursuant to
RI General Laws §20-1-18 for bona fide scientific research
within an enclosed pen;
14.13.2 By planting, cultivating, or harvesting of crops directly
associated with bona fide agricultural practices, including
planted wildlife food plots;
14.13.3 By distribution of food material for livestock directly associated
with bona fide agricultural practices; by distribution of food
material for legally possessed captive wildlife, pursuant to a
permit;
14.13.4 By cutting of trees or brush; or
14.13.5 Elevated bird/squirrel feeders providing seed, grain, fruit, worms,
or suet for birds or squirrels located within 100 feet of an
occupied dwelling.
14.14 Distribution of Certain Food Material – Feeding wild or captive cervids with
any material that contains protein derived from any mammalian tissues is
prohibited.
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RULE 8 EFFECTIVE DATE
The foregoing Rules and Regulations - Hunting Regulations after due
notice, are hereby adopted and filed with the Secretary of State this 28th
day of July to become effective 20 days after filing, in accordance with the
provisions of Chapter 20-1-2 20-1-4, 20-1-8, 20-1-12, 20-1-13, 20 -18, and
42-35 of the General Laws of Rhode Island of 1956, as amended.
Michael Sullivan, Ph.D.
Acting Director
Department of Environmental Management
Notice Given on:
5/17/05
Public Hearing held:
6/16/05
Filing Date:
7/28/05
Effective Date:
8/17/05