Oklahoma is Looking to Make Nocturnal Coyote Hunting Legal Without a Permit

Oklahoma lawmakers are looking to pass legislation that would make the nocturnal/night hunting of coyotes legal without a permit within the state. House Bill (HB-4281) would change the current Oklahoma laws regarding hunting coyotes at night without special permitting and permission from state game wardens.

At this time the only legal way to hunt coyotes at night is by getting a special night permit or deprivation permit from a game warden. Farmers and ranchers who live in areas where coyotes have become an issue can obtain these permits but it can be difficult at times to do so due depending on the situation and a game warden's availability. This new law, or by amending our current state game and wildlife laws would help Oklahoma farmers and ranchers protect their livestock and land against coyotes and other preditors.

With a valid hunting license, you can hunt coyotes in Oklahoma all year long but only during daylight hours. Since coyotes are nocturnal the only effective way to hunt them is at night. (HB-4281) would allow the use of spotlights, thermal and night vision equipment to hunt coyotes after daylight hours. A section of the bill reads: "Furthermore, any person may use enhanced night vision equipment to attempt to take, take, attempt to catch, catch, attempt to capture, capture, attempt to kill, or kill any coyote."  The bill has been making its way through the Oklahoma House and will be heading to the State Senate for discussion and approval before making its way to the governor's desk. Click here to read and review House Bill (HB-4281) in its entirety.