Venator12...I talked to the DNR today...

[Clipper]

And talked to a fella in the legal department, who informed me that it is indeed perfectly legal to transport a firearm in a legal manner (cased & inaccesible, etc.) in areas frequented by game animals (which I asked, and he confirmed is pretty much everywhere).

However, the issue became cloudy when that firearm comes out. For example, if you're out in the national forest, and want to set up targets and are obviously target shooting, OK. But if you're strolling down the fire trails shooting at rocks & tin cans, and otherwise just toting a firearm, you're likely to be at the mercy of the individual COs sensibilities that day. Smart money says that if you want to carry a trunk gun all the time, to keep a current small game license.

I would think OC without a CPL might get a person into hot water in the woods, because the law was ammended to allow persons with CPLs to carry their pistols, but made no provision I'm aware of for OC pistols, or for rifles at all.

Maybe we owe each other a coffee...

[Venator12]

And talked to a fella in the legal department, who informed me that it is indeed perfectly legal to transport a firearm in a legal manner (cased & inaccesible, etc.) in areas frequented by game animals (which I asked, and he confirmed is pretty much everywhere).

However, the issue became cloudy when that firearm comes out. For example, if you're out in the national forest, and want to set up targets and are obviously target shooting, OK. But if you're strolling down the fire trails shooting at rocks & tin cans, and otherwise just toting a firearm, you're likely to be at the mercy of the individual COs sensibilities that day. Smart money says that if you want to carry a trunk gun all the time, to keep a current small game license.

I would think OC without a CPL might get a person into hot water in the woods, because the law was ammended to allow persons with CPLs to carry their pistols, but made no provision I'm aware of for OC pistols, or for rifles at all.

Maybe we owe each other a coffee...

Perhaps, but what I said was exactly what the DNR told you. You can transport long guns in a vehicle, but if you are carrying it afield where game is you need a license. And you are right about carrying afield under a CPL, you do not need a hunting license as long as you are not attempting to take game. This is not true for OC without a CPL afield, that person would need to have at least a small game license (Deer season is another matter.)

I disagree with your statement in regards to a trunk gun. If the gun stays in the trunk you don't need a hunting license to transport it in a vehicle. Only if you carry it afield.

I still will buy you a coffee anytime.;)

[Hcidem]

I take it that you fellows are discussing established law including statutes, case law, and rulings. This would be as opposed to 2A rights to bear, self-defensive legal purposes, etc. which might require sorting out in a court setting.

[Dansjeep2000]

I would just spen the $15 and have the small game license to cover my tail. Plus if you have it while your afield you might come home with dinner (bear in mind i'm a hunter to).