Last week of hunting seasons and to submit hunter reports
Dennis L. Clay
The hunting seasons are at an end this Sunday with the duck, snipe, coot and goose season ending on Jan. 26.
Hunter reports due
Reminder: Hunters who purchased tags for black bear, deer, elk or turkey are reminded that reports on their hunting activities are due by next Friday, Jan. 31, for each 2013 license, permit or tag purchased.
The reports are simple to complete online.
Master Hunter open enrollment ongoing
Yes we have presented this information before, but we need to reach those hunters who are interested.
Fish and Wildlife will accept applications for its Master Hunter Permit Program from now through Feb. 15, 2014. The program is designed to promote safe, lawful and ethical hunting and to strengthen Washington's hunting heritage and conservation ethic.
Fish and Wildlife enlists master hunters for controlled hunts to remove problem animals that damage property. Master hunters also participate in volunteer projects involving increasing access to private lands, habitat enhancement, data collection, hunter education and landowner relations.
Applicants must demonstrate a high level of skill and be committed to lawful and ethical hunting practices to qualify for the program.
Hunters enrolling in the program must pay a $50 application fee, pass a criminal background check, pass a written test, demonstrate shooting proficiency, provide at least 20 hours of approved volunteer service and meet other qualifications.
Individuals who enroll in the program are encouraged to prepare thoroughly for the written test, because applicants are allowed only one chance to re-take the exam.
About half of the questions on the 100 question written examination that must be passed by MHPP applicants came directly from the Fish and Wildlife Hunter Education Student Manual and from Fish and Wildlife Hunting Regulation Pamphlets. Study all these materials in detail. The Hunter Education Student Manual Study Guide can be found on the Fish and Wildlife website under hunting and then hunter education.
Also each applicant is required to: Demonstrate proficiency with a bow, handgun, muzzleloader, rifle, shotgun shooting shot, shotgun shooting slugs, or crossbow. Plus, attend Crime Observation and Reporting Training (C.O.R.T.).