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72 TRAVEL HACKS FOR HUNTING AND FISHING IN QUEBEC
Travel Tips for Hunting and Fishing in Quebec
Enjoying a fun, safe, and successful hunting or fishing trip in Quebec begins long before game is spotted or you set the hook. You’ll make the most of every moment of your much-anticipated trip by planning ahead for efficient travel. Honestly, the journey can be equally enjoyable to the moment of truth. Nearly, anyway.
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TRANSPORTING FIREARMS INTO CANADA
You can (and should) bring your own hunting firearms into Canada. Qualified firearms are rifles or shotguns with barrels at least 18½ inches long that cannot be fired when reduced to an overall length of fewer than 26 inches (folding or telescoping stocks for example). NO HANDGUNS OF ANY KIND CAN BE TAKEN ACROSS THE BORDER. The procedure is to fill out a Canadian firearms declaration form and pay a $25.00 fee. This allows certification of up to three firearms for 60 days. IMPORTANT TIPS:
❶You can go online ahead of time and download the Non-Resident Firearm Declaration Form (http://www.rcmp-grc. gc.ca/cfp-pcaf/form-formulaire/ pdfs/5589-eng.pdf) and complete it in triplicate ahead of your border crossing, but do not sign until you are in the presence of a Canadian Customs Officer.
❷You may also request a carbon form from customs at the border crossing and complete it there. In this case, it’s wise to have all information for your firearms written down on another easily accessible note. It should include make, model, serial number, caliber/ gauge, barrel length, and action of each firearm you’ll be registering. Upon completion of your form, the customs agent will inspect your firearms and compare the information you provided on the form to that imprinted on the firearm(s). ❸ It’s best to present the firearms for inspection in locked cases along with the key or combination to the customs agent. In most border crossing locations, they do not want owners handling firearms during inspection, and in some cases they remove the firearms to another room.
❹Firearms must be unloaded, and it’s best to have the actions opened and the triggers locked as well.
❺Once the firearms are declared and the fee is paid, you must keep the approved documents with the firearms at all times – including when you’re in the field. Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) or other law enforcement officers can ask to see your approved declaration forms at any time and can confiscate your firearms if you don’t have them. A great way to do this is to have an ammo pouch on the stock of your rifle with a pocket where you can keep the paperwork.
FLYING WITH FIREARMS AND AMMO
Canadian airlines have different paperwork and procedures than U.S. airlines for flying with firearms. Be sure to ask for the proper forms and sign everything in the presence of an airline agent. IMPORTANT TIPS:
❶Firearms to fly on any airlines need to be unloaded and locked inside an airline approved hard-side case. The case must be locked in a manner so that no part of the case can be pried open to remove a gun while another portion remains locked.
❷It’s better to be over-secure rather than cut corners that could cost you time and hassle with the airlines. For example, no airlines will ever complain about you having trigger locks on your firearms in addition to the required airline approved locking cases, so lock the triggers. ❸ Keep ammunition in its original packaging and separate from firearms. Lock it in its own hardside container inside other checked baggage.
❹Always be totally honest and thorough in declaring your firearms and ammunition. It’s far better to share too much information rather than appear to be hiding something.
Many U.S. hunters and anglers don’t realize that it can actually be more difficult to bring firearms and other outdoor gear back into the U.S. rather than taking it into Canada. The process goes much more smoothly if you complete and certify a U.S. Customs Form 4457 prior to leaving the country. This is a “Certificate of Registration for Personal Effects Taken Abroad.” Basically, it’s proof that you owned the equipment before you left the country and did not purchase it abroad, which could mean there would be taxes payable. IMPORTANT TIPS:
❶The USB 4457 must be completed and presented to U.S. Customs Border Patrol prior to leaving the United States. You must present the form, along with the gear it covers, for inspection of the customs agent. The agent will compare the description and serial numbers on the document to that on the equipment and will sign and seal the document if everything matches.
❷Once approved, a form USB 4457 is valid as long as you own that equipment. So if you take your firearms, optics, tackle, etc. on more than one international trip, be sure to hang on to the forms. You’ll save yourself a lot of time. ❸ The requirement for this registration can be applied to any personal effects of significant value, so you should complete the forms for your optics, camera gear, rods and reels, and other valuable equipment you may take with you into Canada… or elsewhere.
❹When you step up to present your passport and declaration form to a U.S. Customs Border Patrol agent at a border crossing, include the approved USB 4457 in the paperwork. It lets the agent know you’re an experienced, in-theknow traveler.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR MUZZLELOADING FIREARMS
When it comes to border crossings, muzzleloaders will be treated and have the same requirements as modern firearms. IF YOU ARE FLYING, YOU CANNOT TAKE BLACK POWDER, BLACK POWDER SUBSTITUTES, LOOSE PRIMERS, OR LOOSE PERCUSSION CAPS ON BOARD A PLANE!
IMPORTANT TIPS:
❶If you wish to hunt with a muzzleloading firearm you either need to drive to your destination and take the components with you or make arrangements to acquire them once you’ve reached your destination.
❷Make multiple layers of back up plans to get what you’ll need. While your outfitter may be willing to order your muzzleloader supplies well ahead of the hunting season so they are there when you need them, ask him/her to send you a photo of the components when they arrive so you can confirm they are correct. Same goes if you’ll be buying them at a sporting goods store in Quebec. Get them to send you confirmation of the right products, but still make additional back up plans.
❸When you return home, consider leaving the unused components with the outfitter to act as a back up plan for the next muzzleloading hunter in camp.
TRAVELING WITH BOWHUNTING EQUIPMENT
Both vertical and crossbow equipment are legal for hunting in Quebec. There are no additional paperwork and fees as with firearms, but you should declare the presence of archery equipment to the customs agent at the border crossing. IMPORTANT TIPS:
❶It is safest to have your broadheads removed from the arrows/bolts for transport. Each head should be individually contained to avoid damage and dulling.
❷Airline transportation of bows and crossbows requires a hard-side locking case. This is just plain smart, anyway, to avoid damage to the equipment.
❸Anticipate damage at the worst possible time and place. Take backups of everything possible including strings, releases, sights, cables, silencers, stabilizers, etc. – anything that could be damaged, broken, or lost.
HUNTING/FISHING REGULATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS FOR NONRESIDENT HUNTERS
In nearly all cases, non-residents are required to employ the services of a licensed guide/outfitter to hunt big game and most small game in Quebec. IMPORTANT TIPS:
❶You are required to have a hunting or fishing license to pursue game or fish in Quebec. Your outfitter is the best source of information on what licenses are needed and how to acquire them.
❷Outfitters/lodges sometimes sell licenses themselves. Others do not, and some licenses must be acquired either online or from Canadian federal agencies such as their post office. Be sure to confirm with your outfitter if there are licenses you’ll have to acquire on your own before arriving at camp.
❸While the guide/outfitter is there to “guide” you, it is the legal responsibility of each hunter and angler to know and follow the laws for the area in which he/she is hunting or fishing. Quebec publishes hunting and fishing regulations books just like the states in the U.S., so get a copy (or go online) and review the laws before you go into the field or onto the water.
❹Begin your search for a professional, ethical Quebec outfitter with the Quebec Outfitters Federation at: https://www.pourvoiries.com/en/.
❺Each outfitter who is a member of the QOF must agree to respect the Federation’s Code of Ethics and basic principles.
❻A professional outfitter will be able to answer all of your questions and handle all of the logistics to make your trip enjoyable and care-free.
QUEBEC’S BLAZE ORANGE REQUIREMENTS AND HUNTING LAWS
All hunters, including bowhunters (except for waterfowl hunters) must wear a minimum of a blaze orange vest that covers at least the back, shoulders, and chest and is visible from all angles at all times. Anyone accompanying a hunter in the field, including a guide or nonhunting partner must also meet this requirement. IMPORTANT TIPS:
❶Bring a spare blaze orange vest folded up in the bottom of your daypack and carry it with you in the field. Your own vest could become lost or torn or you can loan it to another hunter who has forgotten a vest.
❷A blaze orange stocking hat or ball cap provides additional visibility and safety. Though it is not required by law, wear one anyway.
❸Each outfitting camp operates within a specific fishing or hunting zone. For detailed information on hunting and fishing primary regulations (such as zone boundaries), contact the Quebec Ministry of Forests, Wildlife and Parks at: http://mffp.gouv.qc.ca/ the-wildlife/hunting-fishing-trapping/?lang=en or call 1-866-2486936.
REGARDING PETS
On some types of Quebec outdoor adventures, it may be entirely appropriate to bring along your dog(s). However, this should be discussed and approved with your outfitter while you’re booking the trip. IMPORTANT TIPS:
❶Crossing the border with a pet, you must present a valid, up-todate certificate of rabies vaccination. Like your other travel documents, you should make multiple copies of this and carry one with you at all times.
❷Airlines and other transporters may require a veterinary certificate of health as well. This needs to be dated and signed within 30 days of travel. ❸ It’s smart to bring along a copy of your dog’s health record. In case of an emergency, the vet in Quebec will have a better idea of what may be wrong with this background information.
❹Bring a supply of your dog’s regular food and medications to last the trip and any unexpected delays. Some brands are not readily available in Canada.
COMMUNICATION WITH THE OUTSIDE WORLD
The point of many hunting and fishing trips is to get away from the daily grind; leave the outside world behind. Quebec is a great place to do it. At some camp locations you’ll have regular digital phone service and even wi-fi. In remote locations, there may be one daily radio check between the camp and base… that’s it. However, more outfitters are working satellite phones into their operations for emergencies. IMPORTANT TIPS:
❶If direct, daily communication with the outside world is really important to you, consider acquiring your own satellite phone. Check with your outfitter which service plan works best at his/her camps.
❷Do not expect that access to the outfitter’s satellite phone is part of the trip package. You may be able to use it for an additional fee, but be sure to get this squared away in the agreement before the trip. ❸ Before the trip, confirm with your outfitter the process for your family to contact you in case of an emergency back home and be sure the right people have that information. Also, make it clear what constitutes an “emergency” worth contacting you about.
❹If you have your own 2-way radios, it’s not a bad idea to bring them along for you and your companions to use to keep in touch with each other while in the field or on the water.
BRINGING FISH AND GAME BACK INTO THE U.S.
Part of a successful trip may be bringing fish or game meat back to your home to enjoy for months to come. The regulations on this are not difficult, but need to be followed. IMPORTANT TIPS:
❶Work with your outfitter carefully to understand the limits and restrictions for bringing fish and game back into the United States. If you have questions he or she can’t answer, contact the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. (https:// www.fws.gov/le/hunting.html)
❷States have their own restrictions regarding the transport of fish and game meat from outside the country or the state’s borders. Be sure to learn those regulations for each state through which you’ll be traveling BEFORE YOU LEAVE.
❸With concerns about Chronic Wasting Disease and other wildlife diseases, the regulations change frequently. So even if you’ve transported fish or game meat before, DO NOT ASSUME THE LAWS ARE THE SAME.
❹When you are packaging fish or game meat, label it carefully with full information including the package contents, species, hunter’s/angler’s name, and license number.
❺In the case of birds and fish, package each individually and leave attached the required elements for identification. For example, fish are required to have a fully scaled patch of skin on each fillet. Birds must have a fully feathered wing attached.
❻At the border crossing, you may be required to fill out U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service forms on which you’ll have to list exactly what you are transporting. It’s a time-saver to have this information written down so you can just copy it on to the forms. You’ll need species (i.e. mallard, blue-winged teal, Canada goose, etc.), quantity, license number, etc.
QUEBEC LANGUAGE, LOCAL CUSTOMS, AND DRIVING
The official language of the province of Quebec is French, but don’t worry about it. The majority of Quebecoise also speak in English and are very welcoming of American hunters and anglers. IMPORTANT TIPS:
❶Street and road signs are in French, but also use universal symbols. “Street” is “rue.” “North, south, east, and west” are “nord, sud, est, and ouest.” “Stop” is “arret” – and it’s on an octagonal red sign with white letters!
❷When you’re in rural Quebec, you may encounter people who do not speak English – even the occasional guide. In that case, go with the flow and use the opportunity to learn new words and customs.
❸Turning right on a red light is permitted in most of Quebec, but some restrictions apply.
❹Owning or operating radar detectors is strictly prohibited. ❺ You may only use completely handsfree cell phones while driving.
❻If you’ll be renting a vehicle for your stay in Quebec and want to use a navigation assistance option, be sure to ask for a system that is programmed for English instructions.
❼Look at ordering from an all-French menu as part of the adventure. Try some things you have no idea what they are. You may come away with some new favorites.
❽By law, all vehicle occupants must wear seat belts.
TIPPING
Just as in the States, tipping those who provide you with good service is customary and appreciated. This can include guides, camp hands, cooks, wait staff, dock hands, pilots, housekeepers, etc. IMPORTANT TIPS:
❶How much to tip is always a tricky question. One rule of thumb is to tip 10-15% of the cost of the trip for the team. So if the total tip was $500, then your guide might get $250, the camp hand $100, the cook $100, and the dock hand $50.
❷In all but the most unusual situations, tip with cash. Everyone can make good use of cash money. You may have paid a whole bunch for that beautiful fillet knife your guide even commented on, but he likely has a drawer full of them in his cabin. If you want to tip with gear or game meat – wonderful – but add it to the cash tip you’d leave anyway.
❸Discuss with your outfitter the option of leaving one large tip with him and having him divide appropriately among the staff – particularly staff you may not see like housekeepers or the cook. You may also be able to put this lump sum on your credit card.
❹You only need to tip the outfitter – the one you wrote the checks for the trip to – if you want to… or if he/she filled these other service roles personally.
TRAVEL BY FLOAT PLANE OR BUSH PLANE
Reaching some Quebec hunting and fishing destinations will require you travel by smaller planes either on wheels or floats. In either case you may face strict limits on the amount and weight of the gear you can fly into camp. IMPORTANT TIPS:
❶Discuss weight limits with your outfitter well ahead of your trip. Weigh-in at the airport or remote float plane base is not the time to discover you have too much gear. It can get really inconvenient and really expensive.
❷As you prepare your gear for the trip, ACTUALLY WEIGH IT on an accurate scale. Do not estimate.
❸It may pay to pack a lighter, soft-side case for a firearm or bow. Store the heavy hard-side case at the outfitter’s base camp and use the soft-side case for the final leg(s) of your journey to camp. But confirm this plan with your outfitter ahead of time.
❹Nothing adds weight to a load faster than liquids. (It’s why beer and alcohol are so expensive in remote camps.) Try to minimize beverages and liquids of any kind in your gear.
❺If your bags weigh a few pounds over, wear some extra layers of your clothes and your heaviest footwear for the flight on the smaller plane.
