Deer Hunting From a Boat

October 17, 2013

Question: Is it legal to hunt deer from a boat drifting down a river? If so, what are the parameters? Do you have to be a certain distance from shore? (Eric S., Redding)

Answer: The main requirement when hunting from a boat is that the boat cannot be under power or still moving as a result of power. In addition, engines must be shut off and out of the water. Once you’ve done this, the boat may be drifting, beached, moored, resting at anchor, or propelled by paddle, oar or pole.

Aside from the requirements of using the boat as a platform, the shooter must consider what else may be around and beyond the deer. You cannot hunt or shoot a firearm within 150 yards of an occupied dwelling, or hunt on private property or within prohibited areas such as municipalities. It is important to research your specific hunting area and know legal access points. No person shall pursue, drive, herd or take any bird or mammal from any type of motor-driven air or land vehicles, motorboat, airboat, sailboat or snowmobile (California Code of Regulations Title 14, section 251). There may also be some Penal Code restrictions regarding loaded firearms in vehicles.

We did last year, me Montana, and Racinrob hit New Melones, paddled out at dark and by the time it was light, we were silently cruising coves and scoping the hills for deer. I don't think we could shoot from the yak with a scoped rifle, it would be a bit wobbly, but once you see a deer, you land and stalk. I saw One Buck, and many Doe, and we saw a deer get taken as well, next year I'd love to camp and hit it for two days.
And you can troll for trout while your at it.

Most definately camp with ya next year bro!

If I killed the engine and raised the motor, could I take a shot once it reaches the beach? Not that I would have...(i don't own a rifle, lol)
This was with my kids last year at Lake Sonoma

Would be perfectly legal