MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. -- Around this time each year, deer hunters infiltrate the woods of Camp Pendleton to take advantage of one of the safest hunting spots in Southern California, according to the base's Game Warden Office.
“At California’s National Forests, hunters have to share the areas with everyone, including bikers and campers,” said Frank R. Hernandez, federal game warden and conservation officer, for the base. However, since all of the base’s training grounds are available for hunters to use, participants are separated into different areas, making for a much safer hunting environment.
In order to enjoy chasing game animals on the vast land of Camp Pendleton, participants must first meet certain requirements. Individuals must be active duty service members, retirees, government employees or immediate family members.
Those aspiring participants will be able to partake once they attain a base hunting permit. To obtain the permit, patrons must have a valid California hunting license, attend a 10-hour hunter education course and a one-hour rifle safety course.
To further ensure the safety of all hunters, the Game Warden Office, located in the 26 Area, require all personnel to check-in with them prior to hunting and to check-out with them after they are finished.
Within the last few years, deer hunting has increased, but due to the decreasing deer population, fewer hunters have been successful in bringing home a catch.
James L. Asmus, wildlife biologist, Game Warden Office, observed a drastic change in deer population, dropping from 750 in 2004 to 350 in 2008. The numbers alarmed Asmus, causing him to actively research the cause for the dwindling numbers of deer on base.
The drastic decrease in deer population over the last few years can be attributed to many reasons, both natural and human, explained Asmus.
One driving factor in the diminishing figures might be fires on base, which have reduced the amount of vegetation available, he said.
“The decreasing numbers of deer is why the deer season is short this year,” said Asmus. “We have to give some time for the herds to recover to healthier numbers.”
This year, deer season spans from Oct. 17 to Nov. 22. However, base officials offer avid hunters the opportunity to hunt for waterfowl, jack rabbits, ground squirrels, coyotes and other animals throughout the year.
Hunting days are scheduled during weekends and holidays from 4 a.m. to sunset.
For more information regarding Camp Pendleton’s hunting programs, contact the Game Warden Office at (760) 725-3360.