PGC officers have always had the authority to enter private property to conduct their work. After all, if they didn't there would be no way to enforce any game laws on posted ground.

Years ago, the state police used to contact the local game warden when they wanted to search a property without first having to obtain a signed warrant from the court or local judge. They would simply call the local PGC officer, and report that theperp was supsected of having illegally-obtained game animals on their premises. That way, the state police could accompany the PGC officer (as protection.) The PGC officerhad the right to open barns, homes, vehicles and other property without the need for a warrant. If the police or PGC officer happened to notice drugs, illegal weapons, bodies, animal carcassesor other damning evidence during the "legal search", it was admissible evidence that a crime was/is being committed.

The simple fact is that if the guy shot the bear over bait it was illegal! Doing something illegal on a section of land that happens to have posted signs on the surrounding trees does not make it legal.

If he used bait, Shame on him. If not, he should have nothing to fear from a PGC officer inspection of his private property.

- Gr8ful