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Hunting Clinics & Mentored Hunts
Overview
Have you ever wanted to try hunting, hunt a species new to you, or harvest your own food? Hunting clinics and mentored hunts provide coached hands-on experience to gain the skills and confidence to independently participate and enjoy hunting.
These events are intended for new hunters or hunters who have never hunted the species featured in the clinic or mentored hunt.
Hunting clinics and mentored hunts are offered by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife staff, volunteers, and partners who conduct to teach various aspects of hunting, including game species biology and habitat, hunting equipment and gear, hunting techniques, field dressing and butchering, and food preparation. Most events are hands-on and include a mentored hunt and practice at the range.
The coach or mentor is there to answer questions, share hunting knowledge and skills in the field, and to assist if an animal is harvested.
Prior to events, participants must have their hunter education certification, as well as applicable license and tag unless otherwise noted. Hunter education information can be found here, and license information here.
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Field Skills Evaluation for On-line Course
Overview
Hunter education classes focus on three broad topical areas:
- Firearms and outdoor safety;
- Wildlife management; and
- Hunter responsibility.
IMPORTANT Because of noise and recoil considerations, women who are or may be pregnant may wish to consult a physician before participating in or being in close proximity to live-fire activities.
Details
This REQUIRED classroom session must be taken AFTER successful completion of the self-paced home-study course (or online course). This is a classroom session (1 to 4 hours) and includes field skills evaluation.
Successful students must pass a written test, demonstrate safe firearm handling skills, and have a positive attitude.
There is no minimum age required to enroll in hunter education, but instructors may require a parent or guardian to attend this classroom session if students are under 12 years of age.
All hunter education classes are taught by instructors certified by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.
Students must attend all scheduled day(s) in the event in order to receive full credit for the course.
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Traditional Classroom Course
Overview
Hunter education classes focus on three broad topical areas:
- Firearms and outdoor safety;
- Wildlife management; and,
- Hunter responsibility.
IMPORTANT Because of noise and recoil considerations, women who are or may be pregnant may wish to consult a physician before participating in or being in close proximity to live-fire activities.
Details
Successful students must pass a written test, demonstrate safe firearm handling skills, and have a positive attitude.
There is no minimum age required to enroll in hunter education, but instructors may require a parent or guardian to attend all classes if students are under 12 years of age.
About the Class
All hunter education classes are taught by instructors certified by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.
The classes include lectures, video, and hands-on training exercises.
The average class includes 4 - 6 sessions spanning 16+ hours.
NOTE TO ONLINE STUDENTS: If you are taking an online course, DO NOT register online for a Traditional Classroom Course.
