PHOENIX — Have you ever wanted to try hunting and harvesting your own food? The Outdoor Skills Network is your one-stop resource for events offered by the Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) and a network of partners that conduct hands-on events to teach you the basics of hunting, fishing, trapping, safety, wildlife and other outdoor skills.
“We’re so excited for this year’s Outdoor Skills Network events,” said Doug Burt, AZGFD’s recruitment, retention and reactivation programs manager. “With opportunities focusing on almost every species and for every level of outdoor enthusiast, this is by far the most comprehensive season we’ve had to date.”
Not sure which type of class is right for you? Here’s a guide to the skill levels:
- Introductory – No hunting or pursuit of wildlife. Focuses on shooting lessons, instructional activities, and hands-on learning. Typically a one-day event.
- Beginner – Introduction to harvesting wildlife. Generally one-day events with an emphasis on basic hunting skills and pass shooting opportunities. Species include dove, duck and squirrel.
- Developing – Active pursuit of wildlife with increased field experience. Typically includes overnight events and remote locations. Species include quail, rabbit, predators, javelina, and turkey.
- Intermediate – Pursuit of more challenging species in varied hunting environments. Emphasizes stalking, extended field time, overnight trips, and remote locations. Typical species include deer and elk.
- Experienced – Designed for hunters with established skills. Features minimal mentoring, self-guided opportunities, base camps, and hunter meetups.
If you’re interested, but not quite ready to hunt, we still want you to come on out and see what the outdoor experience and wildlife conservation are all about! Hunting is just one portion of these events. Many of these camps are also open to people wishing to learn more about wildlife biology, habitats, target shooting, archery, wildlife viewing, camping, social gatherings and more.
Outdoor Skills Network events are ongoing, and the list of opportunities is updated frequently, so check out the list and sign up for a class today!