An Act To Restrict The Hunting Of Coyotes

LD 716 establishes a new coyote hunting season in Maine running from October 1 to March 31 each year, replacing the previous December 16 to August 31 season. The bill requires hunters to obtain a permit for nighttime coyote hunting and imposes penalties including a $500 fine, one-year license revocation, and additional fees for violations. It also allows state wildlife officials to appoint agents to hunt coyotes using artificial light from September 1 to December 15. This directly affects hunters who pursue coyotes outside the designated season or without a permit for nighttime hunts. The law updates enforcement mechanisms while maintaining existing restrictions on coyote hunting during other times.