HUDSON BAY, Sask. — Four hunters from Manitoba were charged and fined after conservation officers from Hudson Bay and Greenwater investigated a spotlighting incident in the Porcupine Provincial Forest on Sept. 19.
As a result of the investigation, the four were charged under The Wildlife Act and The Wildlife Regulations. Conservation officers also seized three firearms. The charges included:
- Four counts of using a searchlight for the purpose of hunting wildlife; and
- One count of unlawfully carrying a loaded firearm in or on a vehicle.
All four individuals appeared in court in Hudson Bay on Oct. 1 and pleaded guilty to using a searchlight for the purpose of hunting wildlife. Each individual was fined $1,400 and received a three-year hunting licence suspension. The three firearms seized during the investigation were also forfeited to the Crown. The charge of unlawfully carrying a loaded firearm in or on a vehicle remains before the courts.
According to the Ministry of the Environment, the officers were on a planned patrol at approximately 10:30 p.m. on Sept.19 when they observed a vehicle with occupants using a spotlight to search for wildlife. During the incident, two individuals were observed standing in the box of the truck while it travelled on a roadway. Based on observations of suspected unlawful hunting activity, conservation officers conducted a vehicle stop.
"Conservation officers play a vital role in protecting Saskatchewan's natural resources while helping to keep communities safe," Community Safety Minister Michael Weger said. "Hunting at night significantly increases safety risks due to reduced visibility and challenges in identifying targets, surroundings and other people in the area. Unsafe and unlawful hunting activities put people, wildlife and property at risk. Our government supports strong enforcement efforts that help ensure hunting activities are carried out safely, legally and responsibly."
Conservation officers investigate a wide range of offences related to environmental protection and natural resources, including wildlife violations, illegal dumping, unauthorized use of Crown land, habitat destruction and environmental spills. They also assist other law enforcement agencies with investigations and emergency response efforts throughout Saskatchewan.
"Our laws are in place to make sure wildlife populations remain healthy and sustainable, and the environment is protected," Environment Minister Darlene Rowden said. "We appreciate the important work conservation officers do, enforcing the law and holding offenders accountable."
Rules for Everyone’s Safety
As hunting activity increases across the province, hunters are reminded that regulations are in place to help protect wildlife, promote public safety and ensure hunting activities are conducted responsibly.
All hunters are expected to understand and follow provincial hunting laws, including restrictions on hunting methods and activities, say officials with Sask. Community Safety / Environment.
Hunters should ensure they have the appropriate licence, familiarize themselves with provincial regulations, obtain permission before accessing private land and always transport and handle firearms safely.
The 2026-27 Saskatchewan Hunters Guide provides information on hunting seasons, licensing requirements and provincial regulations. For the most current information, hunters should refer to the online version as information is subject to change. The guide is available at saskatchewan.ca/hunting and in print at Government of Saskatchewan field offices with front counter service, select retailers and some provincial parks.
Additionally, all Saskatchewan hunters and firearms owners are reminded to keep the following firearms safety rules in mind:
- Treat every firearm as if it is loaded;
- Always control the muzzle of the firearm and keep it pointed in a safe direction; and
- Keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to fire.
These principles apply when carrying, loading, unloading, crossing fences or obstacles, entering or leaving a vehicle and during transportation.
"It is up to all of us as responsible firearms owners and hunters to uphold Saskatchewan's strong tradition of firearms safety," Saskatchewan Firearms Commissioner Blaine Beaven said. "Remember, always be aware of your target, your line of fire and your surrounding environment before discharging a firearm. And above all, when in doubt, do not shoot."
By following the law and prioritizing safe hunting practices, hunters can help protect Saskatchewan's outdoor heritage while supporting the strong, safe and secure communities that residents expect and deserve.
