In the past three years, hunter education classes have gained an enhanced capacity to serve more individuals in Wyoming, thanks to volunteer instructors and the availability of online courses. The Wyoming Game and Fish Department saw an increase of 17% of hunter education students in course from 2014 as a result of additional courses. 

“We would not have been able to certify over 5,500 students this last year if it wasn’t for the time and dedication of our instructors,” said Tristanna Bickford, Game and Fish hunter education coordinator. 

In 2016, there were 76 instructors who taught 261 in-person courses throughout the state, in addition to 48 online courses. 

The demand for hunter education courses is constant and growing, with many young and new hunters taking a course so they, too, can get outside and hunt. Proof of hunter education certification is required by Game and Fish Department law in order to take any wildlife if born on or after Jan. 1, 1966.

“Our courses frequently have space for more students and often span the weekend,” said Bickford. “Our instructors volunteer a significant amount of time to share their love of the outdoors and make sure others can also safely enjoy it.”

Courses for spring 2017 are already scheduled, and anyone who is considering hunting in the fall should consider taking a course early. Options for online, with a field day, and in-person are available and can be viewed on the Game and Fish Hunter Education website. Information for individuals who would like to become a hunter education instructor are also online.