CONCORD, NH – A new rule adopted by the NH Fish and Game Department bans the use of drones, smart rifles and live-action game cameras while hunting or attempting to take wildlife. This rule became effective May 4, 2015.

"We needed to establish rules regarding these fast-changing technologies to make sure that people understand that their use for hunting is not appropriate or ethical," said Fish and Game Law Enforcement Major Kevin Jordan. "Use of this equipment violates the principle of fair chase because it gives hunters an unfair advantage over wildlife."

The new rule makes it illegal to use an unmanned aerial vehicle, such as a drone, to attempt to locate, surveil or aid or assist in the taking of wildlife.

It is also now illegal to use "smart rifles" while hunting wildlife. A smart rifle is a firearm that is electronically controlled, electronically-assisted or has a computer-linked trigger that aids the shooter in tracking an animal, or assists in accuracy regarding the placement and timing of the shot.

Hunters also are prohibited from using live-action game cameras while attempting to locate, surveil, aid or assist in any attempt to locate or take any game animal or furbearing animal during the same calendar day while the season is open. A live-action game camera is a camera that sends an electronic message or picture to a handheld device or computer when sensors are triggered by wildlife.

For more information, read the rule in its entirety at: http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/legislative/documents/fis-312.pdf.

To learn more about hunting in New Hampshire, visit http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/hunting