MADISON — The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) urges all individuals interested in participating in fall hunting to enroll in a Hunter Education class now.

Fall is a busy time for Hunter Education classes, which are run and scheduled by volunteer instructors. As the fall season progresses, volunteer time may decrease as they spend time hunting themselves.

Anyone born on or after Jan. 1, 1973, is required to have their Hunter Education certification in order to purchase a hunting license in Wisconsin.

There are three Hunter Education course types, so hunters can choose the best format for how and where they’d like to learn. Individuals under 18 are required to take a course with a hands-on training component.

Traditional Course

This course type is the most commonly offered. Students meet multiple times during one to three weeks. All learning is in the classroom through lectures and hands-on lessons. This course is advised for students new to firearm handling.

Internet + Field Day

This course is becoming more common and combines online bookwork with hands-on learning. Students complete the online lessons at their own pace and on their own timeline and then enroll in the 6 to 8-hour field day for hands-on firearm handling and final exams. This course is recommended for students who already have some firearm handling experience.

Online-Only

This course option is only available to students aged 18 and older. All learning is done online at the student’s pace and on their own time. This course is recommended for students with a strong background in firearm handling.

If you are unable to enroll in a Hunter Education course this fall but would still like to hunt, you may do so under the Mentored Hunting Law. Mentees may purchase a mentored hunting license, which enables them to hunt with a licensed mentor.

Hunter Education classes fill fast this time of year. Stay safe this season, and for more information on these course types and to enroll, visit the DNR’s Safety Education webpage.