There's been a debate in the hunting world revolving around a small piece of flying tech – drones.
The Federal Aviation Administration defines drones as unmanned aircraft systems. Of course, in hunting, those unmanned aircraft systems include cameras with video capability to scout and track game. This single attribute seems to be the wedge driving pro-drone and anti-drone hunters further apart.
So today, we thought we'd spur some discussion. However, while reading, keep in mind that the opinions expressed in this article in no way reflect the views of the author, Hunter-Ed, or Kalkomey Enterprises Inc. You'll also learn how to stay safe no matter when or how you hunt.
Should Hunting Be a No-Drone Zone?
On one side of the debate are hunting purists, who stress the importance of "fair chase."
Those opposed to drones feel the robots (i.e., drones) could give some hunters an unfair advantage. If someone could afford it, what's to stop a hunter from buying a whole fleet of drones to scout an area while hunting?
To the hunter who enjoys spot and stalking, this could make the sport too easy for those less passionate about "the chase." However, hunters aren't the only ones who could be cheated by drone use.
Some believe using drones isn't fair for hunters and anglers who are seriously into the sport. It's also unfair to the animals that deserve a chance to escape.
Some laws already exist concerning the use of drones for hunting. Illinois passed legislation making the use of drones while hunting a misdemeanor criminal charge. In Michigan, the law prohibits hunters and those wishing to harass hunters from using drones in the field.
This follows the trend in Colorado, Montana, Alaska, and Saskatchewan, where legislators have banned using unmanned aircraft to locate games.
Is It Really "Hunting?"
Still not sure what to think about drones and hunting? Consider what outdoor enthusiast Mia Anstine had to say:
"When I'm asked about 'hunting with drones,' I often have to step back a bit to clarify the meaning. In most instances, the drones aren't used to hunt animals but rather scout or locate them.
In my personal opinion, the use of drones in hunting should be similar to the 'no-fly' rules in the state of Colorado. A hunter should not be able to use the aerial camera for 'X' amount of days prior to the hunt. I'm not too excited about using cameras to locate animals during the event, but I am excited about the awesome footage filmmakers and photographers are capturing with the use of drones." – Mia Anstine.
Drones: What Are They Good For?
Those who support the use of drones for hunting see the tiny unmanned aircraft opening up a new world of possibilities for hunters.
Rather than driving around scouting an area before hunting season, hunters can sit in one stationary location and send their drones out to survey the area for them. Drones also provide a new perspective when observing nature: what your binoculars can't see, a drone can.
This simplification could make hunting seem more attractive to those who want to try the activity but aren't too keen on "getting their hands dirty." It could also improve accessibility, allowing those who aren't as mobile to join the fun.
Drone supporters also point out that hunting is no stranger to technology, with hunters using trail cameras, cell phone apps, and GPS devices to assist them. Considering this, drones can be seen as "just another piece of gear."
Stay Safe When Hunting With Drones (or Without)
Whether you are pro-drone or anti-drone, we can all agree that the best kind of hunting is safe hunting. No matter what you learn from flying a drone, eventually, you must head into the field with your firearm or bow to hunt your prey.
Stay safe and get certified through a state-approved, online Hunter-Ed course. Learn how to handle your firearm safely in the field, get in and out of your tree stand safely, and important aspects of being a safe and ethical hunter!
