This section of the Newspaper is brought to you by Sheriff “Jake” Kopec as to raise awareness of the West Virginia State Law and to educate the public in laws that are set forth by legislation. This month I would like to discuss the requirements of wearing blaze orange while hunting deer with a firearm. Keep in mind this code section specifically deals with a firearm and deer not turkey or bow hunting.
- 20-2-60. Required attire for deer hunters; exemption; penalty.
The code states:
Any person who hunts deer on public lands or the lands of another during the period designated for firearms hunting of deer or muzzleloader hunting of deer shall wear a daylight fluorescent orange outer garment over at least 400 square inches of his or her person: Provided, That persons engaged in agricultural occupations shall be exempt from the provisions of this section while hunting deer on their own property. Any person violating any provision of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor, and, upon conviction thereof, shall be fined not less than $5 nor more than $50.
Typically, the average hunting vest is 400 square inches of orange. This portion of the code keeps hunters safe for traveling in the woods during a time where many hunters are afield, young and old. While hunting in the fall and early winter visibility is often limited during snowy weather. Always remember to be respectful to NRP when approached by them afield. NRP are there to ensure the safety of all the hunters. Without NRP there would likely be little to no deer population and hunting would be much more dangerous.