Combining the archer and crossbow hunting licenses. (FE)

DNR issues separate resident and nonresident archer licenses that authorize hunting with a bow and arrow. Current law also provides that, if DNR establishes an open season for hunting deer, elk, small game, wild turkey, or bear with a bow and arrow only, it must also establish an open season for hunting that animal with a crossbow.

The bill eliminates the resident and nonresident crossbow licenses and provides that resident and nonresident archer licenses authorize hunting with a bow and arrow or crossbow. The bill increases the fee for both archer licenses by $1. The bill provides that, if DNR establishes an open season for hunting deer, elk, small game, wild turkey, or bear with a bow and arrow or crossbow but not with a firearm, DNR must allow the use of both bow and arrow and crossbow for hunting during the same open season.