Why would I use a bow when I can use a shotgun or a muzzle loader or a crossbow?
Because I want to use a bow....I enjoy the challenge of the hunt not just the harvest.
Archery only non-daw seasons exist due to low harvest rates....when they creep up it goes to all draw (see southern mule deer). Adding an easier method to master "archery" only increases the numbers of hunters and the harvest. Allowing crossbows for those who have legitimate physical constraints is great. Allowing them for all is great for 2 years before it all becomes a draw. Many of the areas crossbow are allowed during archery have much higher deer density and are not on the road to population recovery.
Alberta management differs than other areas, 15% harvest is a threshold....even though 19% of people archery hunt and its growing. Are rifle guys willing to give up 5% to archers...ask and see the response.
LC
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