Quick question

[mrmoskillz]

My new house has a lot of fruit trees and I was wondering if I shoot a bear out of one if that would be considered baiting.  The neighbors are a bunch of bunny huggers and will probably call it in even though its on my yard.

Thanks in advance guys

[Blacktail Sniper]

This is copied from the RCW that applies to baiting and hound hunting:

(d) As used in this subsection, "bait" means a substance placed, exposed, deposited, distributed, scattered, or otherwise used for the purpose of attracting black bears to an area where one or more persons hunt or intend to hunt them.

Having read that, I would think that a well-established orchard would be like any other food source, for example a berry patch.   I could see where a dumped pile of apples would be considered contrary to the law though.   With that in mind, I would not hesitate to tip one of those flat-footed critters over if I caught it in my orchard.

But, it sounds like you have some concerns over possible issues with a neighbor or two, so in that case, I would be inclined to contact the game dept and ask, then go from there.  I would inquire by email, so then I have a time & dated record of my inquiry and any response...just in case.   

[h20hunter]

I see no problem with hunting there. YOU have not placed or scattered anything. I say hang a stand right in that sucker. When boo boo comes in just give the limb a little shake. Kind of like ringing a dinner bell.

However...the neighbors may be an issue but that is another topic.

[Wildsau]

Use a bow; neighbors won't be able to hear that.

[mrmoskillz]

Use a bow; neighbors won't be able to hear that.

Thats what I plan on doing but if it dies on their property I dought they will let me get it and as I understand it they dont have to either.

[h20hunter]

Nope....they don't have to. However, one would think they would prefer to allow you on the proprty to retrieve or especially to finish off a wounded animal. Depending on your relationship maybe you can let them know of your intentions to hunt and stress the desire and need to humanely and quickly dispatch an aniamal if it crosses on their property. Thrown in as well your desire to uphold the regs and not waste meat which is what would happen if you were forced to leave it. If they say no way no how it is something to be considered prior to taking the shot.