Commissioner John P. Cahill today reminded all prospective hunters and trappers to sign up for required courses in hunting, bowhunting and trapping. Courses are difficult to find after hunting seasons begin, however. Hunters who wish to apply for deer management permits must have licenses and apply by September 10, so classes are filling up rapidly this time of year. The courses include lessons and activities designed to promote safe and responsible outdoor behavior, conservation and much more. Today's courses include a wealth of information on how to be get the most enjoyment in the outdoors, and how to be more successful.
All courses are free of charge.
Below is a summary of requirements for various types of hunting. Some popular DEC wildlife management areas also limit weekends and other peak hunting periods to hunters who are waterfowl identification course graduates. Also, any person hunting big game with a bow and arrow in a regular big game season must carry either a current bowhunting license or stamp or proof of successful completion of an approved course in responsible bowhunting practices. A special partnership between DEC and experienced hunters makes these courses possible. Each year more than 3,300 dedicated volunteers teach over a thousand courses to help hunters and trappers get the right start.