Archery and Crossbow

January 27, 2022

Question: There used to be a regulation that defined the minimum strength of a hunting bow as a bow that could cast an arrow at a certain distance. That regulation changed, right? Is there a minimum draw weight for taking big game with a bow and/or a crossbow?

Answer: Yes, the regulation you referred to was updated by the California Fish and Game Commission. The current regulation states: It is unlawful to use any bow or crossbow without a draw weight of at least 30 pounds for a bow or 125 pounds for a crossbow.(CCR, Title 14, section 354(f)).