In-person hunter safety class returns Aug. 6 after decade hiatus

It’s been almost a decade since there was an in-person hunter safety class in our area, but it’s on the way.

If you are 16 or older and want to purchase a hunting license in Alabama, you must complete a hunter safety class. There are two different ways to take that class, online or in person. So many chose the online option that Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries stopped the in-person classes, but the demand seems to be back.

The next in person class will be Aug. 6 at the Central Alabama Farmer’s Co-op from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. with an hour lunch break. This class is open to anyone, but it’s centrally located for hunters in Dallas, Perry, Wilcox, Autauga and Chilton counties.

Game Warden Joe Johnston said the traditional class feature hands-on activities. “We have firearms that are non-firing, that have the firing pins removed, but all the different action guns like lever action, pump action, bolt action, semi-automatic,” Johnston said. “They will load dummy loads so they will see how each type of gun works.” Participants will also learn about bow and arrow and black powder also.

“They go over game and fish regulations, what game wardens do and how we’re funded. It’s a lot of stuff to cover. It will be a full eight hours,” Johnston said. The most important will be hunting safety, which includes firearm safety.

The class is free to anyone needing or wanting to take it. It is required for anyone turning 16 who plans to get a hunting license, which is required by law starting at age 16 if you hunt in Alabama.

Johnston said based on calls so far, there should be good attendance. There is no preregistration, but Johnston said he would like to know who wants to attend, so please email him at joe.johnston@dcnr.alabama.gov to let him know you plan to be there. He added that kids are welcome, but the preferred age is 12 and over. All the information about hunter education and hunter safety classes can be found at www.outdooralabama.com.