While the calendar shows that Labor Day weekend and the start of many fall hunting seasons is two months away, the fact is that many states are reminding hunters who need hunter education course completion cards that now is the time to enroll.
Classes fill fast, and available seating becomes harder to find than a record-book white-tailed deer in some regions and states. In Idaho, for example, “Individuals born after January 1, 1975 must complete a hunter education course to purchase an Idaho hunting license OR show proof of a previously held valid hunting license in Idaho or another state.” This state reports that after June 30, places in classes become very limited.
The good news—and a growing route to obtaining a hunter education or course completion card for some new hunters—is completing an online course. After completion, students are invited to a testing center where a final exam is administered. In some courses, students are also required to demonstrate an understanding of basic firearms safety. In other courses students actually shoot firearms.
Yes, fall will be here before you know it, so now is the time to locate, enroll and complete a hunter education course or risk being sidelined because courses are full—or unavailable. Check your state’s game department for available courses and requirements.