Notice it says firearm, 24 cal. or larger. If you decide to leave the rifle home and carry the handgun it still has to be under 24 cal.
Nah, this is where it gets really shady.
For instance, you can't use a handgun with a barrel under 4" for harvesting big game...so theoretically, then, couldn't you carry a pistol with a barrel under 4" no matter the caliber? That would be the same as just a pistol under .24 caliber--neither one is big game legal.
What if you have a concealed carry permit? Then you can carry concealed for defensive reasons whether you are in the woods or not.
Or, what about he carry exemptions? You can carry a pistol if you are on your way to/from, or actively participating with the following: Hunting, hiking, fishing, camping, or horseback riding...without a permit!
With all the grow operations, meth labs, and the rest of the shady stuff out there...I think a warden would have a VERY hard time getting that ticket to stick.
Now, if you're packing a TC Encore in .308 with a 2-7x scope...that pistol may come into question!