A state lawmaker in Oklahoma introduced a bill that would create the country’s first Bigfoot hunting season.
Admitting that the legislation is more about attracting tourists than catching mythic apes, state Rep. Justin Humphrey told the Oklahoman he’s not really a Bigfoot believer — but he “keeps an open mind.”
“I have been in the woods all my life, and I have not ever seen any sign of Bigfoot,” the Republican said. “I have never heard Bigfoot, but I have some people that I know that are good, solid people who I will guarantee you 100% have said they have had experience with Bigfoot. So, I know there are people out there that you will not convince that Bigfoot doesn’t exist.”
Humphrey’s one-page bill would order the Oklahoma Wildlife Conservation Commission to “promulgate rules establishing a big foot hunting season,” complete with “annual season dates” and “any necessary specific hunting licenses and fees.”
Bigfoot has already captured the imagination of many Oklahomans. The town of Honobia holds a Bigfoot festival every year that includes a 5K run, live entertainment, and “Bigfoot story telling.” Allowing a proper Bigfoot hunt would be one more draw to the festivities.
“Tourism is one of the biggest attractions we have in my House district,” Humphrey said. “Establishing an actual hunting season and issuing licenses for people who want to hunt Bigfoot will just draw more people to our already beautiful part of the state. It will be a great way for people to enjoy our area and to have some fun.”
“Having a license and a tag would give people a way to prove they participated in the hunt,” Humphrey told the Hill. “Again, the overall goal is to get people to our area to enjoy the natural beauty and to have a great time, and if they find Bigfoot while they’re at it, well, hey, that’s just an even bigger prize.”
The state representative added that he doesn’t want anyone to kill Bigfoot — he hopes to include language to his bill to secure a $25,000 prize for the first person who captures the beast.
