Ontario is my home, I was…

Ontario is my home, I was born and raised here and I love it. I have been hunting with my Dad and the same group of friends in Ontario for over 20 years. I own 50 acres of bush purchased specifically for hunting 7 years ago. We have built a hunt camp that we all cherish. It it a family tradition that I do not want to end. This rule change will have a negative impact on me. If I was aware of this potential change I would not have purchased my property.

My career has taken me out of Ontario for few years at a time, internal company transfers or job opportunities that will change my residence status for hunting purposes. I have returned several times and so have many hunters in my situation. This is quite common, especially for people (25-35) trying their best to provide for their families, by doing this we become non-resident hunters by definition for the period we live outside of Ontario.

I purchased my property specifically for hunting and to ensure I meet the Non-resident hunting requirements moving forward. This was a considerable investment. I am a capable hunter and do not require a guide or outfitting service.

I fully support hunting outfitters, for new hunters (both resident and non-residents), and people who do not own their own land, or they want to hunt somewhere new. However, I do not think this change will benefit people that own land or hunt with an immediate relative have already have, A) a immediate relative that is experienced, and/or B) An established place to hunt. These two factors make using an outfitter unnecessary. Also the closest outfitter will not be able to easily get into my camp to assist or support me.

Please do not change this hunting requirement. You are adding a control and an extra step where it is not needed. If non residents would like to use an outfitter they always have the option to do so, please keep it that way.

Kind Regards,

Displaced people born and raised in Ontario.