9.901 — HUNTING SEASON AND BAG LIMITS

Violations of "Statute 9.901" results in an Class C Misdemeanor

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(a) Definitions

Hunting season refers to the designated time frame during which specific wildlife species may legally be hunted. Bag limits refer to the maximum number of animals of a certain species that a person is allowed to harvest within a specified period, typically during a hunting season.

(b) Elements

To establish the offense of violating hunting season or bag limits, the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt the following elements:

• The defendant engaged in hunting during a specified hunting season or harvest period.

• The defendant exceeded the established bag limits for a particular species during that season.

• The defendant knew or should have known the specific dates for hunting season and the maximum allowable number of animals (bag limit) for the species in question.

(c) Defenses

Defenses against this charge may include:

• The defendant mistakenly believed the hunting season or bag limit had not yet been established or had been changed.

• The defendant had valid permits or exemptions for extended hunting seasons or additional harvest limits.

• The defendant can demonstrate that the bag limit was not exceeded, and a mistake or miscount was made regarding the number of animals harvested.

(d) Aggravating Factors

When determining the severity of the offense, the following aggravating factors may be considered:

• The defendant harvested protected or endangered species during the hunting season.

• The defendant harvested animals in excess of the bag limit in a manner that resulted in significant environmental harm or depletion of the species.

• The defendant has a history of repeated violations of hunting regulations, indicating a disregard for wildlife conservation laws.