Saskatchewan's new online automated Hunting, Trapping and Angling Licence (HAL) system is now fully operational. Beginning August 6 all game bird, big game and big game draw licences will be available for purchase 24/7.
"Over the last several years, the ministry has consulted with many hunters, anglers, trappers and issuers, and has heard that the current system needs to be updated," Environment Minister Ken Cheveldayoff says. "The fact that hunters and anglers have purchased over 170,000 licences, demonstrates that HAL is meeting the needs of the public."
There are three options to purchase licences through this system, online through your personal computer any time, through private issuers, Ministry of Environment and select provincial park offices; or by phone at 1-855-848-4773 (8 am to 9 pm).
Customers who want to purchase a big game licence online from home, must first obtain a convenience pack of seals to complete the transaction. A convenience pack of six seals is free and can be obtained from a private issuer, a Ministry of Environment office or select provincial park office beginning August 6. Once you have them, you can complete your transactions online, 24 hours a day.
In Yorkton, there are three locations where a licenses can be purchased. Those locations are Canadian Tire, Home Hardware and the Ministry of the Environment.
Only one HAL account is required per person. If you have already created an account for angling or the Big Game Draw, you do not need another account. Just access your account and make the purchase.
Although August 1 was originally noted as the date hunting licences would be available for sale, the ministry delayed the opening of sales to ensure there is a seamless administrative transition from the sale of angling licences to the sale of hunting licences.
Last year the ministry issued over 200,000 hunting licences and 200,000 angling licences. This activity contributes about $40 million to the GDP, and over 2,500 direct jobs, benefiting rural areas and helping to grow local economies.
For more details about HAL, a listing of licence issuers, and hunting and angling guides, visit www.environment.gov.sk.ca/licences.
