HELENA, Mont. (AP) — The bill to allow a small group of enthusiasts to hunt with spears has been stopped in the House.

The measure targeted at a subgroup of hunters who hunt like prehistoric man for sport was tabled in the House Fish, Wildlife and Parks committee Friday.

The bill, which had already passed through the Senate, drew a large amount of public interest because of its unusual topic. Gov. Brian Schweitzer singled out the spear hunting measure as a "kooky'' proposal from tea party conservatives that hold sway in the Legislature.

Hunters supporting the bill say it's an exciting sport that connects them with the outdoors.

Critics of the proposal say there is no need for the legislation and that spear hunting could be used for poaching.


Good Grief!

The Tea Party wants spear hunting?

Spears are a good poaching tool?

There is indeed something "kooky" going on in Montana. The Governor sounds like a solid blue state transplant.....

Left wing loon!

Spears for poaching - seriously? Maybe for spear-fishing, but that would be ten times harder than the most traditional bowhunting.

Traditional Hunting? I guess, but not my cup of "TEA". If it isn't established let them do it on a "do what you want game ranch". I don't see how spear hunting helps hunters' public perception. As far as "blue state" and "kooks and loons" the nutcases come in every color and party.

Can't see anything wrong with spear hunting, I've killed several pigs that way... you got to get up close and personal... tough way to poach if you ask me...   :D

Thanks fpor clearing this up,owlbait. Some folks just have to throw their color preference, intolerance and hatred into everything instead of just giving their opinion on the subject at hand.