Alabama's Hunting & Fishing Trail for People with Physical Disabilities: The trail is a network of public and private recreational sites throughout the state providing accessible fishing, shooting, and hunting opportunities for individuals with physical disabilities. The trail has been developed by the Division of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries of the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources in cooperation with a broad range of sponsors. Hunting sites on the trail are provided by various public and/or private entities and managed by the Division of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries. Due to safety and liability considerations, certain requirements apply for those participating in hunting on the sites designated for that activity. More information can be found at http://www.outdooralabama.com/hunting/physically-disabled/.

Special Disabled Fishing License: Persons that are totally disabled and have been a resident of Alabama for six months may obtain this license for $1.00. Applications for this license can be obtained from the Probate Judge or License Commissioner in the county in which they reside.

Alabama offers several special disabled hunts including those for deer and turkey. Hunts generally begin the day before opener. Contact your local Division of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries for more information. A physician's statement is necessary to participate in special disabled hunts. This form can be found at http://www.outdooralabama.com/hunting/physically-disabled/PhysiciansStatement.pdf

Alabama is offering a Pre-Season Turkey hunt for people with permanent disabilities. Information and application can be found at http://www.conservation.alabama.gov/hunting/physically-disabled/PreSeason-Turkey-Hunt.cfm

Each of the Alabama State Public Fishing Lakes have specially constructed piers that allow fishing by persons in wheel chairs. http://www.outdooralabama.com/fishing/freshwater/where/lakes/

Official website: http://www.outdooralabama.com/

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· Alaska

Special Applications:

• Proxy Fishing or Hunting Authorization Application - Application form to be signed by the “beneficiary” and the “proxy” and submitted to ADF&G for authorization before a resident hunter may take game for another resident who is blind, disabled or over 65.
• 70% Disability Affidavit - Physician's affidavit attesting to 70% physical disability for proxy hunting.
• Methods and Means Disability Exemption - Application form for special methods and means exemption to provide meaningful access or opportunity to hunt or trap. See text of regulation for more information.

These forms for Proxy Hunting Authorization Application, 70% Disability Affidavit, and Methods and Means Disability Exemption are available at: http://www.wildlife.alaska.gov/license_form/forms/92-104f.pdf

Disabled veteran license holders are exempt from state waterfowl stamp and HIP enrollment requirements.

Official website: http://www.adfg.state.ak.us/

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· Arizona

Crossbow Permit:

• "Crossbow permit" means a document issued by the Department that authorizes the named hunter to use a crossbow during an archery-only season established under R12-4-318.
• A crossbow permit is valid only when the legal animal for the archery-only season may otherwise be taken by crossbow under R12-4-304. Possession of a crossbow permit does not waive any other requirement regarding method of take or licensing.
• An applicant for a crossbow permit shall apply on an application form available from any Department office.

Challenged Hunter Access/Mobility Permit: The Department shall issue to qualified individuals a Challenged Hunter Access/Mobility Permit, also known as a CHAMP, that allows the following activities by the licensed hunter to whom the CHAMP is issued:

• Discharge of a firearm or other legal hunting device from a motor vehicle when, under existing conditions, the discharge is otherwise lawful and the motor vehicle is motionless, is not on any road as defined by A.R.S. § 17-101, and has its engine turned off;
• Discharge of a firearm or other legal hunting device from a watercraft (except a sinkbox), including those propelled by a motor, sail and wind, or both; when the motor has been shut off, the sail furled, or both; and progress has ceased. The watercraft may be drifting as a result of current or wind action, beached, moored, resting at anchor, or propelled by paddle, oars, or pole. A watercraft under power may be used to retrieve dead or wounded wildlife but no discharge of a firearm is permitted while the watercraft is underway;
• Access to off-road locations in a motor vehicle when the access is not in conflict with other law and the motor vehicle is used as a place to wait for game. A motor vehicle shall not be used to chase or pursue game;
• Designation of an assistant to track and dispatch a wounded animal, and to retrieve the animal, in accordance with the requirements of this rule.
• The Commission through hunt orders authorizes specific deer and elk hunts for CHAMP permit holders only.

Disabled Veteran's License: The commission may issue a complimentary license to a veteran of the armed forces of the United States who has been a resident of this state for one year or more immediately preceding application for the license and who is receiving compensation from the United States government for permanent service connected disabilities rated as one hundred per cent disabling.

• A disabled veteran's license shall grant all of the hunting and fishing privileges of a Class F combination hunting and fishing license and an urban fishing license.
• Persons meeting the criteria set in A.R.S. § 17-336(2) may apply for a disabled veteran's license as follows. Eligibility for the license is based on 100% disability and not on the percentage of compensation.
  

Official website: http://www.gf.state.az.us/

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· Arkansas

Special Licenses:

• Resident 3-Year Disability Fishing License entitles all 100% totally and permanently disabled persons privileges of the Resident Fisheries Conservation License. A trout permit must also be purchased to retain trout or to fish in certain waters. Certification will be accepted from Social Security, Veteran's Affairs or Railroad Retirement. Proof of one year’s Arkansas residency is required to apply for this license. Valid for three years from date of purchase, recertification is required for license renewal.
• Resident 3-Year Disability Combination License - RDC entitles all 100% totally and permanently disabled persons privileges of the Resident Sportsman’s License (hunting) and the Resident Fisheries Conservation License (fishing). HIP registration is required to hunt migratory gamebirds. To hunt waterfowl, state and federal waterfowl stamps are required in addition to HIP. A Trout permit must also be purchased to fish in certain waters. Certification will be accepted from Social Security, Veteran's Affairs or Railroad Retirement. Proof of one year’s Arkansas residency is required to apply for this license. Valid for three years from date of purchase, recertification is required for license renewal.
• These two licenses are only available from the Commission’s Little Rock office. If you wish to purchase a license, bring proof of one years Arkansas residency, such as driver’s licenses, state ID, property assessments, Arkansas income tax forms and acceptable proof of disability. Applications and information are available by calling 1-800-364-4263 or (501)223-6349 in the Little Rock area Monday-Friday, between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. 3-Year Disability licenses are not available by phone order or online.
  

Crossbow use: A crossbow is considered to be legal archery equipment.

Official website: http://www.agfc.com/

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· California

Mobility Disabled Persons Motor Vehicle License

• Applications: Applications for a Motor Vehicle Hunting License for mobility disabled persons shall be on a form supplied by the Department The application shall include the applicant's name, address, physical description, a description of the qualifying disability, and a certified statement from a licensed physician describing the applicant's permanent disability. It shall be unlawful for any person to falsify an application for a Motor Vehicle Hunting License.
• Terms of the License: The Motor Vehicle Hunting License shall specify conditions under which said license shall be used and shall include but not be limited to the following provisions:
  • The licensee shall be accompanied by an able bodied assistant who shall immediately retrieve, and tag if necessary, all game taken. (Possession of the licensee's tag, required in this subsection, shall not be considered an unlawful possession of a tag or license issued to another person).
  • The assistant shall not possess a firearm, crossbow or archery equipment unless he/she is a licensed hunter and possesses any necessary license or tag for the area being hunted. The assistant shall not discharge a firearm or release a bolt or an arrow from the vehicle. If licensed, the assistant may dispatch wounded game which has moved out of range of the licensee.
  • The vehicle must be stopped and the engine must be shut off prior to the licensee discharging firearm or releasing a bolt from a crossbow or an arrow from archery equipment.
  • The licensee shall notify the Department, at the regional office having responsibility for the area where the licensee intends to hunt, at least 48 hours prior to hunting or contact the department's 24-hour dispatcher at the number indicated on the license. The licensee shall specify the locality, vehicle description, and the approximate time frame during which such hunt shall take place.
  • The licensee or assistant shall not pursue any animal or drive or herd animals to any other hunters with a motor vehicle.
  • This license does not grant permission to trespass on private property or permission to use a motor vehicle while in any area where the use of motor vehicles is restricted or prohibited.
  • This license does not grant permission to discharge a firearm in any place or manner that would otherwise be unlawful, or to possess a loaded firearm in violation of any other city, county or state law.
  • The licensee shall have the license in possession while hunting from a motor vehicle.
• A license fee shall be charged for processing and issuing the Mobility Impaired Disabled Person Motor Vehicle Hunting License. Licenses shall be issued only by the Director or his/her designee. Licenses shall be permanent and have no expiration date.

Permit to hunt from a stationary vehicle is available at http://www.dfg.ca.gov/licensing/pdffiles/fg1460.pdf

There is information contained in the hunting regulations regarding wildlife areas that are accessible by disabled persons. Regulations can be found at http://www.fgc.ca.gov/html/regs.html

Reduced-Fee Fishing Licenses:

• Any honorably-discharged veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces with a service-connected disability rating of 50% or more. Proof of eligibility from the United States Veterans Administration or a copy of last years license is required.
• Any person, with central vision acuity of 20/200 or less in the better eye with the aid of the best possible correcting glasses, or central vision acuity better than 20/200 if the widest diameter of the remaining visual field is no greater than 20 degrees. Certification of blindness by an optometrist or an ophthalmologist is required.
• Any person who is a resident of the State and who is so severely physically disabled as to be permanently unable to move from place to place without the aid of a wheelchair, walker, forearm crutches or a comparable mobility-related device. Verification by a licensed physician or a copy of the previous year's free fishing license is required.
• Any developmentally disabled person. Certification by person in charge of the regional center or a licensed physician is required annually.

Official website: http://www.dfg.ca.gov/

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· Colorado

All disability related information is covered on http://wildlife.state.co.us/DisabilityInformation.htm

Crossbow or modified archery equipment use:

• A manner-of-take accommodation during archery season is approved or denied based on the applicant’s nature and degree of impairment. Information submitted by the applicant and the medical provider serves as the basis for determining which type of accommodation is necessary for you to participate in archery season.
• The Division of Wildlife intends to issue the minimum manner-of-take accommodation necessary to meet the individual applicant’s specific need. Dependent on the nature and degree of impairment, accommodations will be granted allowing modifications to standard archery equipment. If accommodations, such as modifications to standard archery equipment, allow individuals with disabilities to hunt during archery season, that is the accommodation that will be granted. Crossbow accommodations will only be issued after consideration of all other options.
• Dependent on the disability, applicants may be required to undergo range of motion and manual muscle testing by a registered occupational, physical therapist or other licensed medical provider.

Hunting from stationary Vehicle: Accommodations to shoot from a vehicle and permission to have an assistant track and dispatch wounded game will only be given to individuals when, due to a temporary or permanent disability, the applicant is unable to perform any or all of the following essential functions of hunting, or the following essential functions of hunting can be performed but with difficulty (i.e., requires a great deal of time to perform the functions, performing function(s) results in significant pain, a prescribed assistive device or assistance from another person is necessary to perform the essential function): exiting or entering the vehicle, standing, balancing; and/or unable to walk any distance or requires a prescribed assistive device or assistance from another person to walk any distance. This accommodation may also be given to individuals who are required to transport prescribed medical equipment while performing wildlife recreational activities. Further information can be found at http://wildlife.state.co.us/NR/rdonlyres/9F6C286E-34AD-492B-9B7F-816DC3F4BE7B/0/Accommodation_Bullletin.pdf

Anglers with a disability can take advantage of a multitude of areas that have been designed to assist them with fishing access. State, federal, county and local city programs have developed new and improved fishing access areas around the state for individuals with disabilities. A list of these sites can be found at http://wildlife.state.co.us/Fishing/WhereToGo/MobilityImpared/

Special licenses available:

• Disability fishing license - A free fishing license to Colorado residents who are totally and permanently disabled.
• VA Lifetime Combination Small Game Hunting/Fishing License - For Colorado residents who are also disabled veterans, the Division offers free of charge a lifetime combination small game hunting and fishing license. To qualify for this license, a disabled veteran must have an honorable discharge and a 60% or more service-related disability.

Official website: http://wildlife.state.co.us/

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· Connecticut

Handicapped Hunting Opportunities - Connecticut laws provide special provisions for handicapped hunters as do many programs administered by the Department of Environmental Protection. Questions concerning special permits should be directed to the Wildlife Division's Hartford Office (860-424-3011).

• Handicapped License - provides a free hunting license to individuals who have permanently lost the use of a limb. These licenses are available at town clerk offices. Non-residents are eligible for this free license if their state provides the same privilege to Connecticut residents. Verification of the disability, signed by a licensed physician, must be presented.
• ATV Shooting Permit - allows a person to obtain a special permit to hunt legally from an all-terrain vehicle so long as they do not possess or shoot a loaded weapon while the vehicle is in motion. Note: 4-wheel drive trucks, vans, SUV’s, etc. are not considered all-terrain vehicles. Eligible persons must be paraplegic or suffer from the loss of or the loss of the use of both lower extremities and be unable to walk without the assistance of a brace, cane, crutch, prosthetic device, or be confined to a wheel chair. Application deadlines are February 15 and August 15.
• State Land Access - Designated portions of state forests and wildlife management areas are accessible to handicapped hunters with DEP permits granted under CGS Sections 26-74 and 23-11 for use of all-terrain vehicles for hunting. Prior to access, approval by the unit/forest manager in charge of the specific area will be required.
• Use of Crossbow for Deer and Turkey Hunting-A person who has a permanent physical disability to the degree that they cannot operate a long, recurved, or compound bow may apply for a permit to take deer or turkey with a crossbow. They must also show proof of having successfully completed the Connecticut Conservation Education/Firearms Safety bowhunter education course, or its equivalent, and must personally appear before the Department with certification from a licensed physician. Application deadlines are February 15 and August 15.

Improved Access Hunting Areas - There are several public hunting areas throughout the state which have been made more accessible for physically disabled sportsmen. In the listing of public hunting areas, these areas are denoted by the universal handicapped symbol. Areas can be found at http://www.depdata.ct.gov/wildlife/hunting/hntareas.asp?dsftns=43367

Special Free Licenses:

• Mentally Retarded or Blind Fishing: Issuance of a free license to the blind or mentally retarded requires proof of disability in the form of a certificate provided by any person licensed to practice medicine in this state.
• Disabled Persons Fishing and/or Firearms Hunting: Any resident with the loss of a limb or the loss of the use of a limb and a doctor's certificate may be issued a free license. Qualified nonresidents who are residents of states which allow CT residents the same privileges are also eligible.
  

Disabled Access: Many areas in the inland district provide fishing access with primary use intended for persons with disabilities. A list can be at http://www.ct.gov/dep/cwp/view.asp?a=2696&q=322674

Official website: http://www.ct.gov/dep/site/

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· Delaware

Division program for disabled hunters: A variety of hunting opportunities and facilities exist for disabled hunters in Delaware. State wildlife areas offer specialized blinds/stands and accessible hunting locations to meet the needs of individuals with varying degrees of physical disabilities. In addition to hunting facilities, the Division also offers specialized permits, i.e. crossbow and hunting from a vehicle to assist hunters with more serious physical limitations to enjoy the outdoors. To participate in these opportunities, disabled hunters must first complete an application. The information provided will help Division staff verify a hunter’s disability and correctly identify the best service to meet the needs of the individual. Further information and applications can be found at http://www.fw.delaware.gov/NR/rdonlyres/. Special permits include:

• Crossbow use: Individuals may hunt with a crossbow if they meet certain criteria.
• Hunting from stationary Vehicle: Approved non ambulatory hunters may be permitted to hunt specified game animals from their vehicle.
• Deer stands and waterfowl blinds by permit. Permits are available via pre-season and daily lottery.

Youth/Non-Ambulatory Disabled Deer Hunt, early November:

• Open statewide on private and public lands, including state wildlife areas and the federal refuges.
• Any youth from 12 years to 15 years (inclusive), and non-ambulatory disabled individuals may hunt.
• The normal limits and regulations apply. Youth/non-ambulatory disabled hunters are permitted to take one antlerless deer and one “hunters’ choice” deer (either antlered or antlerless).
  

• Any resident who has been honorably discharged from the armed forces and certified by the Veterans Administration as having at least a 60% service-oriented disability.
• Any member of the armed forces who is a patient in a military hospital and submits a written statement signed by the patient's commanding officer certifying the nature of the disability and place of station.
• Any person who is legally blind.
  

Official website: http://www.fw.delaware.gov/

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· Florida

Florida has a lot of information and accommodations for the disabled hunter or angler. To view a complete list, visit http://myfwc.com/ada/

Permits Available:

• Crossbow use: Allows the use of crossbows during archery. Person must submit an original certificate from a licensed physician certifying the individual is permanently incapable of drawing any type of bow with a minimum draw weight of 40 lbs. http://myfwc.com/permits/crossbowdisability.pdf
  
• Hunting from stationary Vehicle: The special use vehicle permit is for permanently, physically disabled persons. This permit allows enhanced access to selected wildlife management areas for the purpose of hunting. The application can be found at http://myfwc.com/ada/SpecUseDisability.pdf
• Mobility-Impaired Certification: Hunters who cannot walk, or cannot walk without assistance, may be eligible for a Mobility-Impaired Certification. Mobility-Impaired Certification allows certified persons eligible to participate in mobility-impaired hunts on wildlife management areas. The application can be found at http://myfwc.com/ada/mobility-impaired_certification.pdf
• Alternative Mobility Permit: Persons who cannot walk, or cannot walk without assistance, due to severe and permanent physical disabilities, may be eligible for an Alternative Mobility Permit. The permit allows the holder to drive or be transported by ATV on selected Wildlife Management Areas (WMA) and Wildlife Environmental Areas (WEA) for the purpose of gaining access to a site on a WMA or WEA. The application can be found at http://myfwc.com/ada/AlternativeMobilityPermitApplication.pdf

Florida Statutes states that hunting and fishing licenses shall be issued, without fee, to any resident who is certified to be totally and permanently disabled by one of the following:

• United States Department of Veteran's Affairs
• Any branch of the United States Armed Forces
• A verified written statement by a licensed Florida physician based on the definition of totally and permanently disabled as provided in Chapter 440 Florida Statutes.

For a list of barrier-free boat ramp facilities, visit http://myfwc.com/ada/BARRIER_FREE_BOAT_RAMP.htm

Official website: http://wld.fwc.state.fl.us/

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· Georgia

Crossbow use: Crossbows, longbows, recurve bows, and compound bows are allowed for hunting any game or feral hog.

Special Licenses:

• Residents that are permanently and totally disabled may obtain a Disability Honorary Combination Hunting & Fishing License by applying to the License Unit. Proof of disability must accompany the application. Proof of disability may come from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Social Security Administration, Railroad Retirement System, or another government agency.
• Those that are blind can apply for a Lifetime Honorary Fishing License and must provide a Physician's certification of blindness with the application.

There are a number of physically disabled person hunts for deer and turkey that are for wheelchair hunters only. Hunters must apply by letter to the appropriate address for each WMA

Official website: http://www.georgiawildlife.com/content/displaynavigation.asp?TopCategory=2

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· Hawaii

Crossbow use: A person may obtain a special disabled hunter permit to take game with a crossbow if a licensed, practicing physician certifies that the applicant has a physical disability and that the applicant is functionally unable to effectively use regular archery or hunting equipment due to a physical disability. An application can be found at http://www.state.hi.us/dlnr/dofaw/hunting/Special_permit_xbow.pdf

Hunting from stationary Vehicle: A person may have special disabled hunter permit to take game from a vehicle if the person meets at least one of the following criteria as certified by a licensed, practicing physician:

• has a permanent mobility impairment which requires the use of an assistive device (cane, crutches, prosthesis, walker, wheel chair, etc.) to aid mobility;
• is permanently blind or visually impaired to a point where the person’s central visual acuity does not exceed 20/200 in the better eye with correcting lenses; or whose visual acuity is greater than 20/200, but is accompanied by a limitation in the field of vision such that the widest diameter of the visual field subtends an angle no greater than 20 degrees;
• has permanently lost the use of one or both upper limbs or portion(s) thereof;
• has permanently lost the use of one or both lower limbs or portion(s) thereof,
• is restricted by lung disease to such an extent that the person’s forced (respiratory) expiratory volume for one second, when measured by spirometry, is less than one liter, or the arterial oxygen tension is less than sixty mm/hg on room air at rest;
• has a cardiac condition to the extent that the person’s functional limitations are classified in severity as Class Ill or Class IV according to the standards set by the American Heart Association.

An application can be found at http://www.state.hi.us/dlnr/dofaw/hunting/Special_permit_veh.pdf

Official websites: (Hunting) http://www.dofaw.net/ ( Fishing) http://www.state.hi.us/dlnr/dar/index.html

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· Idaho

Crossbow use: Handicapped hunters possessing a permit may use a crossbow. Available at IDFG offices only. Disability must be certified by a medical doctor on an IDFG form. A disabled person is defined as one who is certified as eligible for federal supplemental income (SSI); social security disability income (SSDI); railroad retirement board disability, disabled American veteran; a non-service connected veterans pension; or a service connected veterans disability benefit with 40 percent or more disability. Bring current year documentation when applying.

Hunting from stationary Vehicle: Available in certain areas with a handicapped permit.

Special resident reduced rate licenses and tags available at specific vendors or IDFG offices

• Disabled fishing
• Disabled combination hunting and fishing
• Deer, elk, and bear tags
  

Official website: http://fishandgame.idaho.gov/

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· Illinois

Many hunting and opportunities exist in Illinois. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is committed to providing greater access and more programs for persons with disabilities. We want to make it easier for disabled individuals to hunt, fish and pursue other outdoor activities. More information is available at http://dnr.state.il.us/doo/

Crossbow use: After proper application, the Department may issue a permit to hunt with a crossbow to those persons who have a permanent physical impairment due to injury or disease, congenital or acquired, that renders them so severely disabled as to be unable to use a conventional bow and arrow device. Application available at http://dnr.state.il.us/Law3/CrossbowPermitApp.pdf.

Hunting from stationary Vehicle: Standing vehicle permit holders are authorized to shoot from a vehicle that is totally immobile with the engine turned off. When the vehicle is moving, guns must be unloaded and enclosed in a case, and bow and arrow devices unstrung, enclosed in a case or otherwise rendered inoperable. Holders of Standing Vehicle Permits, who are in the field legally hunting pheasant, quail, Hungarian partridge or rabbit, shall be permitted to carry a loaded and uncased shotgun in or on a vehicle or conveyance. Application available at http://dnr.state.il.us/Law3/SVehiclePermitApp.pdf

Various hunting and fishing licensing exemptions exist. Please view http://dnr.state.il.us/DOO/policies.htm

Official website: http://dnr.state.il.us/

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· Indiana

Hunting Permits for Persons with Disabilities: The DNR issues permits to individuals with a disability that prevents them from taking wildlife under regular hunting regulations. The DNR may issue a special permit to an individual with a physical impairment resulting from an injury or disease, excluding impairment which is attributable to the normal aging process.Special permits allow those who cannot walk or have serious walking limitations to hunt from a vehicle. On state and federal lands, permit holders must obtain permission in advance from a property manager to gain vehicle access to lands or roads that are otherwise closed to vehicular traffic. Those who have a disability that prevents them from using a regular bow may be issued a permit to use a crossbow. To apply for a hunter with a disability hunting permit, you must complete an application form, and a physician must complete a statement of disability form. Rules governing the use of hunter with a disability permits and application forms are available from the Division of Fish and Wildlife, 402 W. Washington St., Room W273, Indianapolis, IN 46204; (317) 232-4080. To be considered for fall hunting seasons, applications must be received no later than August 1.

A person issued a permit under this section may hunt wild animals from a stationary motor driven conveyance subject to the following restrictions:

• The permit holder must abide by all other hunting laws.
• The permit holder must possess a valid hunting license and the permit issued under this section
• The permit holder must obtain in advance the permission of the manager of public property (local, state, or federal) to gain vehicular access to lands or roads that are otherwise closed to vehicular traffic.
• The permit holder may display a windshield identification placard supplied by the Division of Fish and Wildlife while hunting from a vehicle. The placard must be displayed in such a way as to be visible from at least fifty feet.

More information is available at http://www.state.in.us/dnr/fishwild/licenses/inlic.htm#huntexe

A fishing license and trout and salmon stamp are NOT required for:

• Residents who are legally blind.
• Residents of a state-owned mental rehabilitation facility.

• In addition to these permits, a Disability Assistance permit is also available. This allows those who are physically incapable of pulling the trigger or reeling in a fish to designate another person to do this for them. The application is available through the Pratt Operations Office and also requires certification by a licensed medical or optical person. There is no fee.
• For those who just need someone to help them hunt. State regulation allows someone else to assist a disabled person, without doing the actual shooting. A disabled permit holder may designate someone to assist in pursuing and retrieving a big game animal wounded by the disabled hunter. There is no permit required, other than a hunting license, for someone to assist a disabled big game hunter in this way.

A special deer season is held near the end of September for youth and disabled hunters. Any resident or nonresident permit holder who is 12-16 years old, or any disabled permit holder with a permit to hunt from a vehicle or with a disability assistance permit, may deer hunt during these days. Archery, firearms, and muzzleloader permits may be used during this season. Unit and
equipment restrictions on the permit apply.

• A resident who is a veteran of the armed forces or Louisiana National Guard, having a permanent service connected disability classification of fifty percent or more. Must submit form signed by parish service officer.
• A resident who is blind, paraplegic or is a multiple amputee shall upon identification and proof of disability satisfactory to the Department be issued licenses without the payment of any fees therefor. Must submit doctors statement.

• Special handicapped either-sex deer season on private land: early October. Restricted to individuals with Physically Challenged Hunter Permit.
• An either-sex deer season will be held for hunters possessing a Physically Challenged Hunters Permit on the following WMAs during the dates specified under the individual WMA listings: Bens Creek, Dewey Wills, Jackson Bienville, Sabine, Sherburne and West Bay. Contact Regional Offices for permit application and map of specific hunting area. Catahoula and Red Dirt National Wildlife Management Preserves will also have a Handicapped Deer Hunt. Pointe-aux-Chenes will have a Experimental Lottery Handicapped waterfowl hunt. Contact New Iberia Office, Fur and Refuge Division for details at (337) 373-0032.

• Blind (residents over 16 years of age) - Provides for a complimentary license to fish. Must show certified evidence that the applicant's visual acuity for distant vision is 20/200 if the widest diameter of field vision subtends an angle no greater than 20 degrees.
• Disabled Veterans - Provides for a resident complimentary hunting and fishing license, and certain hunting permits to resident disabled veterans who are not otherwise ineligible to hold that permit or license. A special letter from the Veteran Administration is needed, specifically stating the applicant either is a veteran with a service connected disability evaluated at 100% or is a veteran with a service connected disability evaluated at 70% who served in a combat zone during any armed conflict in which participants were exposed to war risk hazards.
• People with Cognitive Disabilities - Complimentary license to fish to any person with cognitive disabilities. A statement from a licensed psychologist is needed.
• Paraplegic - Provides for a complimentary resident hunting and fishing licenses to Maine residents suffering from the loss of, or the permanent loss of the use of, both lower extremities. A physicians statement is needed certifying that the applicant has loss of, or the loss of the use of, both lower extremities. This license is available to nonresidents from states that provide a reciprocal privilege to residents of Maine. (New Hampshire, Vermont, Connecticut, and Massachusetts)
• Acquired Brain Injury - Complimentary license to fish for any person who has a brain injury as defined by Title 22, section 3086 and/or is participating in a Rehabilitation program.

Official website: http://www.maine.gov/ifw/

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· Maryland

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is working to ensure that the state's magnificent natural resources are accessible to all citizens and visitors. From conception and design to construction and implementation, time and attention have been spent on camping areas, cabins, fishing and boating docks, visitor centers, trails and other outdoor recreation amenities to make it possible for people with disabilities to enjoy Maryland's great outdoors. The DNR is constantly working to expand accessibility to include people with disabilities. Staff is being trained to be aware of the varying needs of a diverse public. Recognizing the non-uniformity of disabilities, DNR staff members are prepared to assist when and wherever possible. For more details, visit http://www.dnr.state.md.us/accessforall/.

Crossbow use: Hunters with physical disabilities that prevent them from using a traditional bow may apply for a special crossbow permit to hunt deer during the bow season at http://www.dnr.maryland.gov/download/crossbowpt.pdf

Hunting from stationary Vehicle: A person who possesses a valid hunting license and who has a disability, which impairs his mobility, may receive a permit from the Service to hunt from a vehicle. However, the person may not shoot or have a loaded weapon in the vehicle while the vehicle is on a public roadway or the shoulder of a public roadway. http://www.dnr.maryland.gov/download/vehiclept.pdf

Special opportunities available:

• William Houck Area Campground, Cunningham Falls State Park, 301-271-7574. This area is open only to hunters with disabilities who possess a Hunt from Vehicle Permit. http://www.dnr.state.md.us/outdooradventures/huntcfalls.html
• For a list of accessible state parks and wildlife areas, see http://www.dnr.state.md.us/accessforall/accesshunt.html
• The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is working to ensure that the state's magnificent natural resources are accessible to all citizens and visitors. From conception and design to construction and implementation, time and attention have been spent on camping areas, cabins, fishing and boating docks, visitor centers, trails and other outdoor recreation amenities to make it possible for people with disabilities to enjoy Maryland's great outdoors. More information is available at http://www.dnr.state.md.us/accessforall/
  

• Complimentary Hunting Licenses for Maryland residents are available upon certifying that you are a former prisoner of war or an American veteran with 100 percent service-related disability.
• There is a resident and nonresident non-tidal license for the blind to fish in the non-tidal waters from January 1 through December 31 available at no fee.

• Fishing License Exemption for Persons with Mental Disabilities: The Fishing and hunting License Act Provides for permits to be issued which authorizes a mentally retarded person or resident of a home for the aged to fish without a license if they are accompanied by 1 or more adults. The supervising adult must possess a valid fishing license.
• Senior Citizen Fishing License for Legally Blind Residents: A resident who is legally blind may purchase a senior citizen fishing license. Proof of blindness must be presented to the license agent by the qualified blind person.. The person who purchases such license must carry both the fishing license and the "proof of blindness" used to to purchase that license, while fishing.
• Senior Citizen Hunting/Fishing License for Veterans with 100% Disability: A resident who has been determined by the veterans administration of the federal government to be permanently and totally disabled and entitled to veteran benefits at the 100% rate for a disability other than blindness, is eligible to purchase a senior citizen hunting or fishing license. Proof of 100% veteran's benefits due to disability must be presented to the license agent by the qualified person. The licensee, when hunting or fishing, must possess proof of eligibility and must furnish proof upon request of a law enforcement officer.

Further information can be found at http://www.michigan.gov/dnr/0,1607,7-153-10364-37460--,00.html

Official website: http://www.michigan.gov/dnr/

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· Minnesota

Open the Outdoors: Minnesota is known for its tremendous outdoor recreational opportunities. Since 1972, the DNR has been updating its facilities and programs to meet state and federal accessibility standards, opening the outdoors to people with disabilities. Browse this page to find information on access to state parks, state forest campgrounds, state trails, public fishing piers, and wildlife management areas. Learn about opportunities for hunting, fishing and exploring and enjoying nature. http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/open_outdoors/index.html

Crossbow use: Disabled archers may use a crossbow by special permit. The crossbow permit provisions include

• Big game (including deer)
• Small game (including waterfowl and turkey)
• Rough fish

• unable to step from a vehicle without aid of a wheelchair, crutches, braces, or other mechanical support or prosthetic device;
• unable to walk any distance because of a permanent lung, heart, or other internal disease that requires the person to use supplemental oxygen to assist breathing.

• A permanent angling license will be issued, without a fee, to a resident 16 years of age and
  older who is mentally retarded upon furnishing satisfactory evidence of the disability.
  A doctor’s statement/diagnosis of the applicant’s disability must accompany this application.
• A permanent angling license will be issued, without a fee, to a resident who is a veteran and
  has a 100 % service connected disability as defined by the United States Veterans Administration upon furnishing
  satisfactory evidence.

Application is available at http://files.dnr.state.mn.us/rlp/licenses/fishing/res_specialanglingpermanent.pdf

• any Missouri resident with a visual acuity not exceeding 20/200 in the better eye with maximum correction, or having 20 degree or less field of visual concentric contraction. Must carry certified statement of eligibility from licensed ophthalmologist, optometrist or physician;
• any Missouri resident who is permanently disabled and confined to a wheelchair. Must carry certified statement of eligibility from a licensed physician;
• any Missouri resident with cerebral palsy or mental retardation as defined in Missouri Revised Statutes, section 630.005, and who is so severely disabled that he or she cannot fish alone. Must be accompanied by a licensed adult angler and possess a certified statement of eligibility from a licensed physician qualified to evaluate and treat the developmentally disabled;
• any Missouri resident who is an honorably discharged veteran who has a service-related disability of 60 percent or greater, or who was a prisoner of war during military service. Must carry a certified statement of eligibility from the Veterans Administration.
  

• Kansas City area at http://www.mdc.mo.gov/areas/kcmetro/fishfaci/index.shtml
• St. Louis area at http://www.mdc.mo.gov/areas/stlouis/fish/fishing/handiopp/
• Western Missouri at http://www.mdc.mo.gov/areas/kcmetro/fishfaci/fishfaci.html.

• The permit authorizes the holder to hunt (shoot) from within a self-propelled vehicle and from a vehicle parked on the shoulder, berm, or borrow-pit right-of-way of a public highway, except a state or federal highway. No shooter may fire across any public highway or hunt on private property without landowner permission.
• Hunters using this permit must be accompanied by another person to assist with field-dressing and/or recovery of a wounded game animal when hunting big game.
• Any vehicle from which a disabled person using this permit is hunting must be conspicuously marked with an orange-colored decal (provided by FWP) displaying the international symbol for disabled persons on the front, rear, and each side of the vehicle.
• Nonresidents desiring to obtain a Permit to Hunt from a Vehicle must submit an application form provided by FWP. No other forms or documents will be accepted.
• Applicants must sign the application with a notarized signature. Each application must also be accompanied by a notarized certification from the applicant's physician stating which criteria set forth under MCA 87-2-803 qualify the applicant. The physician must also certify that the applicant is capable of holding and firing, without assistance from other persons, legal firearms or legal archery equipment.

A special resident conservation license application is available.

• Except as otherwise provided in this paragraph, carry a longbow with an arrow nocked on the bowstring while in or on any motorized vehicle while the vehicle is on a public highway or other public right-of-way. The provisions of this paragraph do not apply to a person who is a paraplegic, has had one or both legs amputated or has suffered a paralysis of one or both legs which severely impedes his walking, if the motorized vehicle is not in motion.
• Hunt any game mammal or game bird with a longbow that uses any mechanical device that can anchor a nocked arrow at full draw or partial draw unless the person:

  • Carries written documentation, signed and dated by a licensed physician, stating that the person has a permanent disability in the upper torso; or
  • Has had one or both arms, or a part thereof, amputated, and the permanent disability or amputation prevents him from manually drawing and holding at full draw a longbow that meets the requirements of subsection 2
    

• Severe Disability Hunting and/or Fishing License - For persons with a severe physical disability which materially limits gainful employment. You must show proof of the severe disability which describes the character and the extent of the disability like a physician’s statement, a Social Security benefits letter, or a DMV disabled person’s certification. You will also need to provide proof that you have been a NV resident for six months (ID dated six months prior to the application which shows current residency like a NV driver’s license, rent receipts, public utilities, employment check stubs with your name and address).
• Free Disabled Veteran Hunting and/or Fishing License - For veterans residing in Nevada. you need to provide proof that you have been a Nevada resident for six months (ID dated six months prior to the application which shows current residency like a NV driver’s license, rent receipts, public utilities, employment check stubs with your name and address). You will also need to provide a letter from the Department of Veteran’s Affairs certifying 50 percent or more service connected disability.
• Annual Severe Disability Fishing License - For persons with a severe physical disability which materially limits gainful employment.

• permit for a permanent hunting and fishing license for paraplegics
• disabled veterans may also be eligible for a hunting and fishing license
• blind fishing or complimentary fishing (for those who are developmentally disabled)

Further information can be found at http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Hunting/hunt_accessibility.htm

A map of accessible fishing areas is available from the department.

• Shooting from a vehicle: The holder of a handicap license is authorized to shoot at and kill protected species during their respective open seasons from a stationary motor-driven vehicle that is not on a public road or highway. The director may issue permits to shoot from a stationary vehicle to applicants who provide certification that the applicant is permanently disabled in accordance with the American Disability Act. Such certification shall be signed by an M.D. or O.D. licensed to practice in the applicant's state of residence.
• Driving off established roads: Holders of a handicap license may, with permission of the landowner, lessee, or land management agency, drive off established roads to hunt for or take squirrels or game birds, excluding turkey, during open seasons.
• Assistance for handicapped hunter: The holder of a handicapped license may be accompanied by another person to assist in reducing to possession any big game animal which has clearly been wounded by the licensed handicapped hunter.

A free lifetime disabled veteran's license for qualifying residents is available.

• The director of the department of game and fish shall issue without a fee a general hunting and fishing license and class A trout stamp to any resident who was one hundred percent disabled as a result of having served in the armed forces of the United States, upon submission by the person of proof satisfactory to the commission that he was one hundred percent disabled as a result of having served in the armed forces of the United States.
• Any license and stamp issued pursuant to the provisions of Subsection A of this section shall be issued only once, but shall be issued for the life of the licensee, provided the licensee is a resident of New Mexico and provided the licensee notifies the director of the department of game and fish promptly of any change of residence within or outside the state.
• Any person holding a license and stamp under the provisions of this section shall be subject to all applicable hunting and fishing regulations, provisions and penalties of Chapter 17 NMSA 1978.
  

• Hunt from a parked motor-propelled vehicle except on any public road or highway. A public road is the entire right of way of any road over which the public has a right of use. Public roads include, but are not limited to, road related structures that are in the right of way such as tunnels, bridges, or similar structures. Roads on federal, state, or local government lands are public roads. Hunting from a parked motor vehicle is allowed on private and with the landowner's permission and on public land where off-road travel is permitted.
• Hunt with expanded bag limits.
• An able-bodied companion may accompany a person with a Permanent Disabilities Permit and kill any animal wounded by the permit holder. The wounded animal must be killed using a legal weapon for the season and species designated on the tag. The companion must immediately attach the permit holder's tag to the carcass of the animal. The companion is not required to possess a hunting license or tag, except for a person accompanying a visually impaired hunter is required to possess a valid hunting license

For futher information, see http://www.dfw.state.or.us/archive/comm/05/jan/F_2_PDPsummary.pdf

• Has a permanent or irreversible physical disability, is unable to ambulate and requires a wheelchair, walker, one leg brace or external prosthesis above the knee, 2 leg braces or external prostheses below the knees, w crutches or 2 canes for mobility.
• Suffers significantly from lung disease, to the extent that forced expiratory volume for one second when measured by spirometry is less than one liter or the arterial oxygen tension is less than 60 millimeters of mercury on room air at rest.
• Suffers significantly from cardiovascular disease, to the extent that functional limitations are classified in severity as class 3 or 4, according to standards accepted by the American Heart Association on May 3, 1988, and where ordinary physical activity causes discomfort, fatigue, palpitation, dyspnea or anginal pain.
• Has a temporary disability which restricts mobility or ambulation due to injury or operative procedures and who either has a leg, hip or back, or any part thereof, casted by a licensed physician due to a fracture or has leg, hip or back surgery.
• Has a temporary disability which restricts mobility or ambulation due to illness, injury or operative procedures.

• Every man or woman who was a part of the armed forces of the United States government and is now a one hundred percent (100%) disabled veteran, and any man or woman who is one hundred percent (100%) permanently disabled, is entitled, subject to the provisions of this title, to receive a license to hunt and/or fish in this state; and upon the presentation of his or her necessary military discharge identification and/or disability papers as prescribed by the department of environmental management shall, at the discretion of the licensing authority, receive, without the payment of any license fee, a continuing special form of license authorizing the man or woman to hunt and/or fish in this state in accordance with the provisions of this title and regulations issued pursuant to this title for so long as he or she so desires; provided, however, that the man or woman, having once made application for this license, shall not again be required to appear before the licensing authority to present his or her papers. Applications can be found at http://www.dem.ri.gov/programs/bpoladm/manserv/hfb/fishing/pdfs/fishdis.pdf
• A fresh water fishing license is not required of any blind person. For the purposes of this section, a person is blind only if his or her central visual acuity does not exceed 20/200 in the better eye with