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HB 491

Game and fish; remove an exception for use of air guns to hunt wildlife

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Johnny Chastain and 5 co-sponsors

House Bill 491 bans air guns for big game hunting, extends deer hunting seasons, and revises bow and arrow fishing regulations in Georgia, impacting hunters and fishermen.

Effective Date
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Bill Summary · HB 491

Summary of House Bill 491 (HB 491)

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 491 (HB 491) aims to amend existing laws regarding hunting and noncommercial fishing in Georgia. The primary focus of the bill is to remove the exception for the use of air guns in hunting wildlife and to revise regulations concerning the taking of catfish by bow and arrow. The bill also seeks to extend hunting seasons for deer using firearms, archery, and primitive weapons.

Key Provisions

  1. Modification of Air Gun Use:

    • The bill repeals the current provision that allows air guns to be used for hunting big game during specific hunting seasons. This change will take effect on July 1, 2025.
    • Air guns are defined as any device not less than 0.30 caliber that propels a projectile using compressed air or gas. The current exception for their use will be eliminated, making them illegal for hunting outside of primitive weapon hunts and firearm seasons.

  2. Extension of Hunting Seasons for Deer:

    • The bill extends the hunting seasons for deer as follows:
      • Firearms: An additional 14 days.
      • Archery: An additional 7 days.
      • Primitive Weapons: An additional 9 days.
    • The specific dates for these extensions will be determined by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources.

  3. Regulations on Fishing with Bow and Arrow:

    • The bill revises the regulations for taking channel catfish and flathead catfish in the Savannah River and its tributaries. Key points include:
      • A valid fishing license is required for anyone using a bow and arrow.
      • Arrows must be equipped with barbs or harpoon devices and must be tethered for recovery.
      • The use of poisonous or explosive arrowheads is prohibited.
      • Fishing with bow and arrow is allowed at any time, including at night with the use of a light.

Affected Parties

  • Hunters: The bill will impact hunters who currently use air guns for big game hunting, as they will no longer be permitted to do so after the effective date.
  • Deer Hunters: Those who hunt deer will benefit from the extended hunting seasons.
  • Fishermen: The regulations regarding fishing with bow and arrow will affect individuals fishing in the Savannah River Basin.

Procedural Timeline

  • Introduced: February 18, 2025
  • House Actions:
    • Passed by the House on March 6, 2025.
    • Signed by the Governor on May 14, 2025.
  • Senate Actions:
    • Passed by the Senate on April 2, 2025.
  • Effective Date: July 1, 2025

Conclusion

House Bill 491 represents a significant change in Georgia's hunting and fishing regulations, particularly concerning the use of air guns and the extension of deer hunting seasons. The bill reflects an effort to modify existing laws to enhance wildlife management and ensure sustainable practices in hunting and fishing activities.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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