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The following information represents the most common questions asked about permitted hunt opportunities. This section does not serve as a regulatory guide. Hunters and trappers should always refer to the North Carolina Inland Fishing, Hunting and Trapping Regulations Digest for information on regulations and local laws as they pertain to permitted and non-permitted hunts. Frequently asked questions and area reference information for National Wildlife Refuges follows this section.

• Can I bring a non-permitted person or persons with me to observe my hunt? Yes, however the observer(s) cannot assist in any activities associated with the hunt, such as setting out decoys, retrieving birds, building a blind, working a dog etc… In some instances, there may be capacity limitations for hunt blinds or handicap hunt lifts. Limitations will be speciﬁed on the permit. Special regulations apply to Suggs Mill Pond Game Land. Refer to the Regu-lations Digest for more information.

• Can I bring a non-permitted person to call for me on my hunt? No, calling is considered hunting and you must possess a valid hunt permit.

• Do youth hunters need a permit to hunt on permit-only lands? Yes, unless otherwise speciﬁed, a permit is required for all individuals, regardless of age, wanting to hunt or trap on permit-only lands.

• Can I scout on the game land prior to my hunt? Yes, but hunters are encouraged not to scout on designated hunt days. Scouting is restricted on some posted impoundments to designated locations.

• What is the toll-free number I need to call to report a big game harvest? 800-446-8663. Hunters can also register bear and deer big game harvests online at www.ncwildlife.org or at a wildlife cooperator agent. Turkey harvests must be registered online at www.ncwildlife.org or by calling 800-446-8663. All big game harvests must be registered. Refer to the Regulations Digest for more information on validating big game harvest report cards and registering big game harvests.

• If I observe a wildlife violation, whom should I contact? The Commission at 800-662-7137.

• What should I do with my ﬁrearm or archery equipment on a non-hunt day? Firearms and archery equipment should be stored in an area not readily available. Refer to the Regulations Digest for information on possession of pistols.

• Can I hunt the species that my permit allows on posted waterfowl impoundments? Yes, however nontoxic shot requirements apply for hunting of all species, except that lead buckshot may be used while deer hunting.

• Do I need to bring a blind? There may be natural cover to hide in; however, you may want to bring a blind for your use.

• Am I limited on how many shells I can bring on my hunt? No.

• Are there any restrictions on when I can enter the dove ﬁeld on the day of the hunt? No.

• Will I be assigned to a location to hunt? No, unless speciﬁed otherwise on your permit.

• Can I bring my retriever? Yes, however, drinking water is not available on site.

• Can I use bait on game lands? No, it is illegal to place bait for the purpose of hunting on game lands. Refer to the Regulations Digest for more information.

• Can I harvest a deer of either-sex with a permit? Yes, unless speciﬁed otherwise on your permit.

• Do I need to check my deer harvest in at a WRC check station? No, unless speciﬁed otherwise on your permit. Validating your big game harvest report card and registering your harvest, by calling 800-446-8663, online at www.ncwildlife.org, or by visiting a wildlife cooperator agent, is all that is required. Refer to the Regulations Digest for more information on validating big game harvest report cards and registering big game harvests.

• Do I need to bring a blind? There may be natural cover to hide in; however, you may want to bring a blind for your use.

• Are there restrictions on when I can enter the impoundments and when I must stop hunting? Yes, you cannot enter the impoundments before 4:00 a.m. and must cease

hunting at 1:00 p.m. Decoys may not be set out before 4:00 a.m. and must be removed from the area by 3:00 p.m. each day.

63 Refer to the N.C. Inland Fishing, Hunting, and Trapping Regulations Digest for regulations and local laws.