No access to private land? Crown land has plenty of opportunities for hunters willing to do the work

CROWN CONSIDERATIONS

Public land is often referred to as “crown land,” a term used to describe land owned and controlled by federal or provincial governments. While less than 11 per cent of Canada’s land is in private hands, 41 per cent is federal crown land and 48 per cent is provincial crown land. National and provincial parks, Indian reserves, federal military bases and provincial forests are the largest and most visible allocations of such land.

We’re fortunate in that today’s technology makes it so much easier than just a few years ago to identify land tenure—namely, there are now numerous websites that delineate between public and private land ownership. For a small fee, most counties and other municipal governments can provide land ownership documents in either hard copy or digital maps. And provincial governments often provide online maps that show the extent of crown land. Apps such as the popular iHunter also make land ownership maps available.

Be aware, however, that just because land may be designated as public or crown, it doesn’t necessarily mean hunters have the right of access; not all crown lands are created equal. There are several different varieties of parks and wilderness areas, for example, with only some permitting hunting, so read the regulations carefully before heading out. Public land leased to the agriculture community—most often for grazing—is also often subject to specific rules about when and how it can be accessed. Again, knowing the regulations will ensure you avoid conflict.

Another option is land that is technically privately owned but allows public access to hunters, often without requiring you to make a direct ask. That includes lands owned by irrigation districts, so-called special areas and grazing cooperatives. Each is managed privately and independently, so clarify their access requirements, such as signing in, before you enter.