Hunters Among Opposition For Proposed Pig Hunting Bill For Easier Access, Cheaper Fees

Essentially, it would be easier and cheaper for anyone to pay the modest fee to shoot feral pigs, which are considered invasive and have become the enemy of the people – at least many who farm in California.

A Sacramento Bee report from today explains the opposition from some in the hunting community:

For one thing, fewer hogs on the landscape would mean fewer hunting opportunities. For another, if landowners are allowed to kill hogs without the hassle of needing licenses and state permits, it could take business away from a group of influential hunting outfitters who make their livings by taking out clients to shoot pigs on private lands under the current highly regulated system.

Dodd’s bill also includes a ban on the controversial practice of hunting pigs in fenced preserves. California has a few of these “high-fence” hunting ranches scattered around the state. High-fenced hunting is despised by animal welfare activists, who call high the practice “canned hunting.” High-fence hunting is controversial even among hunters, some of whom question the ethics of paying to shoot animals unable to escape confinement. California’s hunting associations, however, say these preserves offer “fair-chase” hunts that provide an important function.

“These hunts provide an opportunity to many, including our most deserving wounded warriors, those with special needs, the elderly, and youth who are physically unable to handle traditional hunts,” a group of 10 hunting and firearms associations wrote in an opposition letter.

Read more at: https://www.sacbee.com/news/politics-government/capitol-alert/article259594119.html#storylink=cpy