Wondering where the best dove habitat is to hunt this year? Make sure you complete a hunter education course before making any big decisions.
According to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources' Wildlife Resources Division, hunters can take the course entirely online or attend a classroom-based course.
“The goal is to educate hunters and set them up for success before they head out to the dove hunting range or hunting stand. We offer online courses that are perfect for those with busy lifestyles, as well as in-person instruction classes for those who prefer classroom learning,” says Jennifer Davison, hunter development program manager for the Division of Wildlife Resources. “It's also important to keep in mind that everyone has different learning styles when it comes to those who thrive in a face-to-face environment rather than behind a screen.”
Each of the five available online courses has a fee (ranging from $19.95 to $49.95), but they are all “if you don't pass, you don't pay” courses. Fees for these courses are charged and collected by the independent course developers. DNR's classroom courses are free.
Anyone born after January 1, 1961, who meets the following criteria must complete a hunter education course.
• Purchase a season hunting license in Georgia.
• Be 12 years of age or older and hunt without adult supervision.
• Hunt big game (deer, turkey, bear) in wildlife management areas.
The only exceptions are:
• Purchase a short-term hunting license (a license for less than a year, not a season license).
• You are a dependent who hunts on your own land or on the land of a parent or legal guardian.
For more information, visit GeorgiaWildlife.com/hunting/huntereducation or call 706-557-3355.