Changes to Saskatchewan’s big game draw application process for 2015 mean that hunters will need to track down HAL before they have the opportunity to track down any animals.
HAL is the Ministry of Environment’s online hunting, angling and trapping licence system – and this year it is the gateway for big game draw applications, which need to be completed and submitted before the draw closes at midnight June 2.
“The process is modernized and streamlined to make it easier for hunters and anglers. Everything you need is in one place,” said Travis Williams of the ministry’s Fish and Wildlife Branch, noting that HAL allows for the purchase of licences at any time – 24 hours a day, seven days a week – using a personal account. “In addition to it being a one-stop shop, security on the HAL system has recently been upgraded to better secure personal information. Users are now required to have a password to further protect their account.”
Creating a HAL account is a quick and easy one-time only requirement and most hunters already have one. If you’ve previously purchased a Saskatchewan hunting, angling or trapping licence, or if you applied for the big game draw last year, then you’re already registered. Those who are registered have been assigned a HAL identification number, which can be used for all future licence purchasing. Please ensure that your personal information is current and up to date. For Saskatchewan residents, this includes confirming that your name and date of birth is exactly as it appears on your Saskatchewan Health Services Card.
The big game draw is a method used to fairly distribute the limited number of hunting licences to Saskatchewan residents for big game animals such as mule deer, elk and moose. The draw uses a system of priority pools to ensure that all applicants are treated equally with a higher priority being given to those who have not been drawn for a number of years.
The big game draw’s availability on HAL this year means users will be able to apply for the draw through their online HAL account instead of the Ministry of Environment website. Users will also be able to update and review submitted applications, check pool status history and purchase their awarded licences from their online account.
“The big game draw is really popular, so I would encourage hunters to apply early,” said Williams, who has one more tip for those interested in entering in the draw: “Make sure to read the big game draw supplement. It has important information to help hunters in applying for the big game draw regarding season dates, quotas for each species and instructions on how to check your draw results.”
The big game draw is held in June and results will be available by mid-July.
For more information about HAL and the big game draw, including the 2015 big game draw supplement, visit www.environment.gov.sk.ca/BigGameDraw or environment.gov.sk.ca/licences
