PC §901A - SPECIFIC BAG LIMITS

CLASS C MISDEMEANOR

(a) Definition

Bag limits are regulations that specify the maximum number of animals or fish a hunter or angler can legally harvest within a specific time frame, typically per day or per season. These limits are established to help manage wildlife populations sustainably.

(b) Bag Limits

1. Deer:

   • Daily Bag Limit: One deer per tag issued by county office or a lottery system.

   • Seasonal Bag Limit: Typically one or two deer per season, depending on the specific zone and the number of tags issued.

   • Regulations: Hunters must possess the appropriate tag for the deer species (e.g., mule deer, black-tailed deer) and the hunting zone.

2. Wolves:

   • Hunting Status: Gray wolves are protected under state and federal law in San andreas, and hunting or harming them is illegal.

   • Bag Limit: No hunting allowed; therefore, no bag limit applies.

3. Fishing:

   • General Fishing Regulations:

     • Daily Bag Limit: Varies by species. For example:

       • Trout: 5 fish per day (general rule, but can vary by location).

       • Bass (largemouth, smallmouth): 5 fish per day.

       • Salmon: 2-4 fish per day, depending on the region and species.

     • Possession Limit: Typically twice the daily bag limit for most fish species, meaning the maximum number of fish an angler can have in their possession is double the daily limit.

(c) Elements of the Offense

To constitute an offense related to bag limits:

1. Exceeding the Bag Limit:

   • The defendant harvested more than the allowed number of animals or fish within the specified period.

2. Violating Species-Specific Limits:

   • The defendant harvested a species for which no hunting or fishing is permitted or exceeded the specific limit for that species.

3. Hunting or Fishing Out of Season:

   • The defendant hunted or fished for species outside of the designated season.

(d) Defenses

Defenses against bag limit violations may include:

1. Compliance with Bag Limits:

   • Proof that the hunter or angler did not exceed the legal bag limit.

2. Mistake or Confusion:

   • Evidence of genuine confusion or a mistake in understanding the applicable limits.

3. Valid Permit or Correctional Notice:

   • Possession of a valid permit that allows an exception to the general bag limits.

(e) Aggravating Factors

Aggravating factors may include:

1. Repeated Offenses:

   • A history of exceeding bag limits or other wildlife violations.

2. Illegal Harvest of Protected Species:

   • Harvesting species that are protected under state or federal law.

3. Violations in Sensitive Areas:

   • Committing violations in areas where wildlife populations are particularly vulnerable or protected.

(f) Penalties

Penalties for bag limit violations in California may include:

• Fines: Monetary penalties vary based on the species and number of animals or fish taken illegally.

• License Suspension: Hunting or fishing license suspension or revocation.

• Jail Time: Possible jail time for serious or repeated violations.

• Jail Time 60 Seconds.