Does the EO apply to hunters?
Yes. The EO applies to anyone discharging a firearm or muzzleloader, but does not apply to bow hunters. While bow season is closed during the first early muzzleloader season (Oct. 17-19), state hunting regulations allow hunters to use a bow during the early muzzleloader season. However, deer shot by bow during this early muzzleloader season must be checked in as muzzleloader-harvested deer, and hunters must have muzzleloader stamps (in addition to a hunting license, etc.). During the Oct. 24-26 muzzleloader season, bow season is open, therefore bow hunters can check deer toward their bow season bag limit and do not need to purchase a muzzeloader stamp. However, in both muzzleloader split seasons, all hunters, including bowhunters, must wear fluorescent orange.
