Vertical Bow and Crossbow Regulations

Vertical Bow Regulations

• Vertical bows (compound, recurve, or straight limb) may be used to hunt nutria, woodchucks, and all game birds and game mammals, including migratory game birds, with the exception of beavers, long-tailed weasels, mink, muskrats, and river otters.
• Draw locking devices are legal on all vertical bows except when hunting waterfowl.
• Release aids are permitted.
• For hunting deer and bear, the vertical bow shall have a full draw and pull of not less than 30 pounds.

Crossbow Regulations

• Crossbows may be used to hunt nutria, woodchucks, and all game birds and game mammals with the exception of beavers, long-tailed weasels, mink, muskrats. river otters, and waterfowl.
• The use of telescopic sights is permitted on all crossbows.
• A crossbow used for deer or bear hunting shall have a draw of not less than 75 pounds.
• All crossbows should have a working safety.
• It is unlawful to have a loaded crossbow in, on or leaning against any vehicle. An unloaded crossbow (a cocked crossbow without a bolt or arrow in the firing position) may be in, on or leading against a vehicle.

Regulations Pertaining to Both Vertical Bows and Crossbows

• Arrows used for deer or bear hunting must have a sharpened broadhead with a metal cutting surface having a minimum width of 7⁄8 of an inch.
• The vertical bow and crossbow may be used for hunting deer during the Deer Firearms Season and Muzzleloader Season, in accordance with Firearms and Muzzleloader Season regulations.
• Firearms may not be carried while hunting deer during the Bow Season.
• The use of poisoned arrows is not permitted.