Illegal Thermal Optic Usage Sees Crackdown In Oregon
Zac K. 03.24.25
There’s a crackdown in Oregon on the usage of thermal technology while hunting—and no, we are not talking about thermal underwear. Thermal cameras, allowing easier nighttime hunting due to the ability to perceive heat images in the dark, are illegal for hunting in Oregon. Now, the state’s wildlife protection officers are fighting back against their usage.
The state’s law enforcement says they had a particularly pressing case in late 2024, with talk of a group of hunters who were using FLIR cameras to hunt big game in Clackamas County, which includes sections of Mount Hood National Forest and Willamette National Forest.
According to their press release at that time, Oregon State Police served search warrants at nine residences over December 15 and 16 last year. They ended up seizing 13 thermal imaging devices based on those searches, as well as a rifle, and filed fish-and-game charges against nine individuals. They also seized four deer carcasses.
After the big December bust, Bernadette Graham-Hudson, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) Wildlife Division Administrator said that hunting regulations are written to level the playing field for all hunters, and maintain fair chase standards: “People who bypass the rules steal from legitimate hunters, and all Oregonians who wish to experience our wildlife as they recreate in the outdoors.”
While the number of arrestees is high, the December arrests were hardly an isolated incident. Oregon’s fish-and-game officials say they’ve seen an increase in illicit use of thermal optics. Lt. Clint Galusha, a wildlife enforcement officer with the Oregon State Police told Jefferson Public Radio that they’ve been getting a lot of complaints about FLIR being used in the field.
Fines for poaching in Oregon can reach $50,000, if convicted. The poacher may even get jail time. The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife has its Turn In Poachers tipline for fish and game offenses at 1-800-452-7888.
