With hunting seasons approaching, area residents who need to complete Georgia’s hunter education requirements will have an opportunity to attend an in-person Hunter Education Class this Saturday, August 22, in nearby Appling County.
The Georgia Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Resources Division class will be held from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. at Christ Community Church, 1585 Hatch Parkway North in Baxley.
The course focuses on responsibility, safety skills, knowledge and ethical hunting practices and is designed for both beginning and experienced hunters.
Who Needs Hunter Education?
According to Georgia DNR requirements, hunter education rules vary by age:
- Age 11 and younger: Hunter education is not required, but hunters must be under the direct supervision of a licensed adult who is at least 18.
- Ages 12–15: Hunter education must be completed before hunting independently. Those who have not completed the course may hunt only under the direct supervision of a licensed adult hunter.
- Ages 16–25: Hunters must have completed hunter education and present their certificate when purchasing a season hunting license. They must also possess the certificate while hunting.
- Age 26 and older: Those born after January 1, 1961, must meet Georgia’s hunter education requirements, although they are not required to present or carry the certificate when purchasing a season license or hunting.
Additional restrictions may apply when hunting on Wildlife Management Areas and National Wildlife Refuges.
Online registration is encouraged. Dylan Bennett with Georgia DNR told Hazlehurst Now that registration forms will also be available on site for those who need to register when they arrive. Walk-ins will be accepted if space is available.
For additional information, contact Bennett at 470-590-6446 or dylan.bennett@dnr.ga.gov.
