Q: While hunting deer on forestry property and adjacent private land, we were harassed by an individual who drove up and down the road and shouting to ruin our hunt. He had permission to bowhunt and seemingly took offence with us shotgun hunting. Is this legal?
David Preston, New Lowell
A: If a person engages in an activity, for the purpose of interfering with lawful hunting, that disturbs or is likely to disturb wildlife, then the person is committing an offence. If you feel that an offence is taking place, please call the MNRF TIPS line (1-877-847-7667).
Q: I'm looking to get a new orange hunting coat. Are safety orange and hunter orange the same thing?
Jason Cornish, Sebringville
A: For the purpose of hunting clothing, yes, they would be the same thing.
Q: Do Fast Case gun covers qualify as enclosures for firearms?
Chuck Kerr, Bradford
A: The Caldwell Fast Case Gun Cover does not meet the legal requirements for a firearm to be considered encased. The bottom of the cover does not close completely, and in some instances may even leave part of the gun exposed. To be considered encased, firearms must be enclosed on all six sides.
Q: Are air bows legal for deer hunting in Ontario?
Wyatt May, Cobourg
A: No, they are not. Air bows are, by definition under the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act, 1997, guns, but not of a class that can be used for hunting deer.
Answers by: David Critchlow, Provincial Enforcement Specialist, MNR
Originally published in the Ontario Out of Doors 2025-2026 Hunting Annual
Ask a CO is also a regular feature in the print edition
Please check the most recent Ontario hunting and fishing regulations summaries, as rules and regulations can change
Contact Information
PO Box 2800 / 4601 Guthrie Dr.
Peterborough, Ontario Canada K9J 8L5
Phone: 705-748-OFAH (6324)
Fax: 705-748-9577
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