Authorities in Maryland cited nine hunters for illegally using bait during the state’s recent five-day season for black bears.
But it was the extent of baiting and variety of items that stood out in a news release issued Friday by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.
One hunter was issued two citations after he admitted to hunting from a stand overlooking an area baited with bacon grease, chicken grease, corn, molasses, vanilla icing, and licorice.
As if that weren’t enough, the hunter also possessed an illegal “bear bomb” spray to help lure bears to within shooting range.
In another case, two hunters were cited after hunting from separate stands over an area baited with cracked corn kernels and grease or lard spread onto a tree trunk near their stands.
Two other hunters, including an 84-year-old, hunted over a site baited with corn dispersed as close as 10 yards from their elevated blinds.
Another hunter was found to have used bacon grease, corn, apple peelings, and apple processing waste placed between 23 and 50 yards from his blind.
In yet another case, two hunters from Pennsylvania were cited for utilizing a site baited with dog food, animal carcasses, apples, syrup, strawberry jam, and shelled corn.
It was made clear before this year’s hunt, which concluded Oct. 26, that the use of bait or hunting near previously baited areas was prohibited. (The use of bait while hunting white-tailed deer is legal on private property in Maryland.)
According to the Maryland DNR, 950 hunters were randomly selected via lottery to participate in the annual black bear hunting season.
The nine who were cited face fines of up to $1,500 for a first violation, and up to $4,000 if there was a second violation.
