FWP to offer trapping classes for beginners as well as bowhunting courses

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks will offer a short course tailored to those that do not trap but want to learn more about furbearer management, Montana trapping seasons and how to release traps.

The course is set for Thursday, Jan 17 from 6:30-9p.m. at the Missoula FWP office (3201 Spurgin Road). Participants do not need to pre-register.

The class will offer an introduction to wolf trapping and management, as well as short overview of other furbearer seasons. Participants will also have the opportunity to handle traps and learn how to open them, and hear practical tips on how to avoid places where traps may be set.

Six bowhunter education classes will be offered in Missoula beginning in January and online registration is open now for all classes.

The first two class options are Saturday, Jan. 19 or Saturday, Feb. 2 from 8:30-5:30pm at the Missoula Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) office, 3201 Spurgin Road. Students that take either of these classes must also complete a half-day field course on Sunday, Feb. 3 from 1-4pm.

Interested students can see the complete Missoula bowhunter education class schedule and register online now at fwp.mt.gov.

Follow links to Education and Hunter Education.

Montana also offers online bowhunter education classes for anyone 18 years and older. Most of the coursework is completed online, and then students must complete a field course to receive their certification card. Field courses for online students will be offered in Missoula on Feb. 3, April 28, May 23 and June 13.

For more information about the online class and to register for a field day, go online to nbef.org. There is a $20 fee for the online course.

By state law, all first time bowhunters must complete a bowhunter education course in order to purchase an archery license in Montana. Bowhunters born after January 1, 1985 must also show proof of completing a hunter education program.