MISSOULA – Hunter and bowhunter education classes are scheduled for west-central Montana communities this year, and more class options will be added over the next few months. Classes are free and many are open for registration online now.
Classes cover information and skills related to the safe handling of firearms and archery equipment as well as basic instruction in survival, hunting ethics, wildlife management, game identification, landowner/hunter relations, and Montana hunting laws and regulations.
Montana law requires that anyone born after Jan. 1, 1985, complete a hunter education class or qualify as a youth apprentice hunter before purchasing a Montana hunting license. All first-time bowhunters must complete a course or show proof of a prior year’s archery license from another state or province. Students must be at least 10 years old to be certified.
In west-central Montana classes are planned for the following locations, and more classes will be added, so be sure to check back for updates. Find out more and register online at fwp.mt.gov/hunt/education.
- Missoula: Feb. 28, March 1, 2, 3 & 5
- Darby: Orientation March 1. Classes March 7-11
- Victor: Orientation March 15. Classes March 27, April 3 & 10
- Missoula (Bow Ed): March 26
- Florence: April 5, 7, 12, 14
- Missoula: April 11, 12, 13, 15, & 16
- Lone Rock: Orientation April 22. Classes April 25-30
- Missoula: June 4-5
- Hamilton: Orientation Aug. 10. Classes Aug 15-19
Online classes are also available, but there are several advantages to in-person classes, including: hands-on experience, mentoring and the opportunity for students to ask questions and hear advice from experienced hunters. In-person courses are led by volunteer instructors who are passionate about passing on Montana’s hunting tradition, teaching firearm safety, ethics, and other outdoor skills.
For more information and to register for hunter education courses, visit the hunter education page on the FWP website. The webpage will be updated as more classes are scheduled.
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