Texas Hunter Education Certification Practice Exam

When is it legal to shoot a firearm at water?

1. Never, because it's always unsafe

2. When duck hunting

3. When there's a clear, safe shot at a waterfowl

4. Only in self-defense

The correct answer is: Never, because it's always unsafe

Shooting a firearm at water is generally considered unsafe due to the risk of ricochet and unpredictable bullet behavior. When a bullet strikes the water, it can bounce off at various angles, potentially posing a danger to other people, wildlife, or property. This is why many hunting regulations emphasize the importance of safety and responsible firearm usage. In some specific circumstances, such as in controlled waterfowl hunting without a significant risk of ricochet, other options might seem viable. However, the overarching guideline is that regardless of the scenario, shooting at water's surface is always discouraged and unsafe due to these inherent risks. Safety rules are designed to protect both the hunter and those around them, making it critical to adhere to these guidelines at all times.