Deer, squirrel, turkey, quail, rabbit – all hunt-able species in Georgia. But, do you know how to hunt them? Georgia Hunt and Learn programs provide an educational weekend for beginners to those with experience, according to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division.
The Georgia Hunt and Learn programs provide exceptional instruction from qualified teachers for children, ages 10-17, accompanied by an adult. Classes include everything from the basics to learning how to care for harvested game. The weekend additionally provides guided hunt opportunities. Adults and children (16 and older) must possess current hunting licenses.
Due to the popularity of the Hunt and Learn programs, there are now three participant levels. Participants must complete Level 1 to advance to Level 2 and likewise to Level 3.
- Beginner (Level 1): These are new hunters with little to no experience. Only the youth may hunt, and they must be accompanied by an adult. The squirrel and falconry hunts are the best hunts for first time hunters. However, we offer level 1 for all Hunt and Learn programs.
- Intermediate (Level 2): Participants must have participated in a previous Hunt and Learn Level 1 program. Both the youth and adult can hunt at the same time, if the guides and Hunt and Learn coordinator are confident with the shooting proficiency.
- Advanced (Level 3): Participants must have participated in a previous Hunt and Learn Level 2 program. Both the youth and adult can hunt without a guide. However, they must stay together during the hunt.
The following WMAs each have a variety of 2017-18 Hunt and Learn programs scheduled:
- Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center/Clybel WMA ($90 per person, includes lodging, food and all instruction).
- Buck Shoals WMA ($60 per person, includes food and instruction. Primitive camping available).
- Chattahoochee Fall Line WMA ($60 per person, includes food and instruction. Primitive camping available).
- Two additional Hunt and Learn programs will take place with the assistance of 30-30 Ministries (www.3030ministries.org).
How Do I Apply?
Registration for all Hunt and Learns opens Aug. 1, 2017 at 9 a.m. At that time, please call 770-784-3059. Those applying for a quota hunt and learn will be put on the quota list. Names will be drawn one month in advance of those hunt weekends. Other hunts, not designated as quota, are first come, first served.
For more information, visit http://georgiawildlife.com/LearntoHuntFish.