Hunting and Fishing

Hunting and Fishing in McDowell County
Visit McDowell County and enjoy our great hunting and fishing!

West Virginia Hunter Education Program

All persons born on or after January 1, 1975 must first successfully complete a certificate of completion of the education program to the agent issuing the license. The first Hunter Education Program was taught in WV in 1968. It consisted of a short talk and a movie. In 1971, by contrast, West Virginia won the NRA award for outstanding contributions to the field of hunter eduaction. Today the course takes an average of 12 hours to complete. Over 360,000 students have passed the course since it began. This could not have been accomplished without the help of over 500 trained volunteer instructors who donate hundreds of hours and thousands of miles each year.

How old does someone have to be to take the Hunter's Safety Class?

Students can take the class on or after their 10th birthday while accompanied by an adult. Students 14 and above can take the course without an adult being present.

How long is the Hunter's Safety Class?

The Hunter's Safety Class is 10 hours long.

How much does the Hunter's Safety Class cost?

The class is free.

Do I have to attend the entire Hunter Safety Class, or can I just take the class?

You have to attend the entire class, and then pass the test.

Is the WV Hunter Safety Class recognized in other states?

Yes. It is recognized in all 50 states and Canada.

What do I do if I miss part of the Hunter's Safety Class?

You can have a transfer slip that is valid for 90 days. Any part of the class that you have had will not have to be retaken.

The 10 Commandments of Gun Safety

1. Treat every gun as if it were loaded.

2. Always keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction.

3. Be sure of your target and what's beyond it.

4. Be sure the barrel and action are clear of obstructions.

5. Unload firearms when not in use.

6. Never point a firearm at anything you do not want to shoot.

7. Never climb a fence or tree or jump a ditch with a loaded firearm.

8. Never shoot a bullet at a flat, hard surface or water.

9. Store firearms and ammunition separately.

10. Avoid alcholic beverages and other mind altering drugs before and during shooting.

Lost your Hunter's Safety Card?

If you have misplaced your card, contact your local license agent; pick up an application for a duplicate card; complete it; mail it, along with a $10.00 check or money order, to one of the addresses listed on the application. To obtain an application online, visit: www.wvdnr.gov/lennforce/education.shtm. If there is no record for your completion of the hunter's education class, the $10.00 will be returned to you.

For information about classes in your area, call 800-243-9968 or visit: www.wvhuntered.com.

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West Virginia's Most Southern County. This site is sponsored by the Council of the Southern Mountains.