Hunter education classes are open

Waterbury, VT – With hunting seasons just around the corner, the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources’ Fish & Wildlife Department is urging new hunters to sign up for a hunter education class.  All first-time Vermont hunting license holders are required to complete the course unless they have a current or previous hunting license from another state.   

“Though classes are held throughout the year, their numbers are peaking now,” said Chris Saunders, Hunter Education Coordinator.  “So this is the time to sign up and complete a course, because once the hunting seasons get rolling our volunteer instructors are in the field.” 

The easiest way to find an open class is by going to http://www.vtfishandwildlife.com/HE_Courses.cfm or by calling the hunter education office at (802) 241-3720.      

Vermont’s hunter education course averages 12-14 hours of classroom instruction and field exercises, including live-fire.  Each course is taught by trained, certified volunteer instructors who follow national guidelines and state standards.  Safe firearms handling, hunter responsibility, conservation, wildlife identification, outdoor safety, turkey hunting, muzzleloading and survival are all covered.  Some courses include bowhunter education certification.  Separate courses are also offered for bowhunter and trapper education. 

The department recognizes that attending courses can be difficult, and has made available a home-study option for the basic hunter education course.  This great opportunity lets hunters learn the material at their own pace.  A field day, involving a written exam and field skills testing, is still required.

Each year, the Vermont Hunter Education Program’s 300 volunteer instructors certify almost 6,000 students.  The free courses provided by the department are entirely funded by hunters and shooters through the Federal Aid in Sport Fish and Wildlife Restoration Program.  Be smart, think safety and good luck.

First day of MHS Fall sports practice