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Disabled hunters are a varied and growing group of individuals who often fear that their disability, whether a progressive condition, an injury from an accident, or the result of serving their country in a war zone, will impede their ability to experience the thrill of the hunt. But growing numbers of groups across the country are making it easier for disabled veterans and others to continue to hunt under modified circumstances. There are dozens of sporting outreach programs across the country that offer big game hunting opportunities to disabled men and women. These can vary widely from state to state, but most address at least one of three major issues: special licensing, improved access, and adapted or prolonged hunting seasons. Utah Recognizes Disabled Hunters While accommodations for disabled hunters vary from state to state, Utah has taken several steps that make it easier for anyone with physical limitations to hunt. Among these are: • Special licenses allowing partially paralyzed individuals, those missing one or both legs, or individuals on crutches to hunt from a vehicle. • Companion hunting (the ability to go hunting with a companion who will handle the weapon for you if your upper extremities are disabled and you are unable to use a hunting weapon). • Hunting licenses that let hunters with a limited range of motion or limited upper body strength use a drawlock or crossbow. • Hunting season extensions. There are both limited entry and general hunting season extensions available for the blind, upper body disabled, paraplegic, quadriplegic and otherwise permanently disabled. • A license for the use of telescopic sights when vision is impaired to less than 20/40 vision when corrected. Paralyzed Veterans Of America Shooting Sports Program One of the most active programs in the U.S. is the Paralyzed Veterans of America Shooting Sports Program, which focuses on helping our disabled veterans to find ways to enjoy hunting and shooting sports. Each year, they donate adaptive equipment to state wildlife agencies and military bases to ensure that veterans have easy access to the modified equipment they need for hunting or shooting. They also sponsor nationwide events for anyone wishing to participate on these organized hunting and shooting opportunities. Estate Hunting For The Disabled Or Those With Limited Mobility Even if you can no longer stalk an animal on foot or slip through the woods in search of your prey, you can go hunting if you consider estate hunting as a viable alternative. The limited range and accessibility common to estate hunting programs make it convenient for disabled hunters to "big the big one." They are also open to the use of adaptive equipment and can help you determine the best way to plan your estate hunting experience. Organizations For Disabled Hunters There are multiple organizations for disabled hunters, but some of the most active ones include: •Paralyzed Veterans of America Shooting Sports Program • Disabled Hunters of North America • Disabled Hunter Magazine • Outdoors Without Limits Be sure and contact organizations in your area by doing an Internet search for "Disabled Hunting Organizations," or contact your local hunting outfitter to learn more about special licensing and any other programs that may enable you to once again enjoy the thrill of the hunt.
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