Hunting Clinics Planned for Youth and Women

The Idaho Department of Fish and Game (IDFG) and the Coeur d'Alene Trap and Skeet Club have scheduled two hunting clinics to assist women and youth new to hunting, and those who wish to hone their hunting skills. The seventh annual Panhandle Region "Women in Hunting" clinic, and a third "Youth Shotgun Skills" clinic will both be held on Saturday, September 16. Space is limited and reservations are required for each event. To register, call the IDFG at 769-1414. The "Women in Hunting" clinic has become a popular annual event, with much of the popularity attributed to the fact that all instructors are women hunters. They are volunteering their time to teach other women about the sport. The instructors have developed an effective team approach with each instructor researching and specializing in a subject area. According to Nancy Hadley, one of the instructors and a member of the Idaho Fish and Game Commission, "Participants have really enjoyed past clinics. They've greatly appreciated the fact the instructors are all women who are experienced hunters." Topics the instructor team cover in the "Women in Hunting" clinic include firearm safety, hunting regulations (how and why they were developed), preparation for the field and hunting ethics. Participants in past classes identified the shooting range activities as a highlight of the workshop. All attending will have the opportunity to shoot shotguns at clay targets, and centerfire rifles at paper targets. The clinic is $5 including a lunch barbeque. The "Youth Shotgun Skills" clinic will be offered by the Coeur d'Alene Trap and Skeet Club and the North Idaho Retriever Club. The intent is to provide expert instruction in proper shotgun mounting, swinging and shooting so the participants increase proficiency and hence enjoyment of shotgun shooting. I have been told that hitting your target increases enjoyment of clay pigeon shooting! I'll let you know how it feels when I find out. New hunters aged 11-15 are encouraged to attend this clinic which costs $5. Eye and ear protection will be required and participants are encouraged to bring their own if available. Some shotguns will be available, however, shooting with the shotgun to be used for target shooting or hunting will enable the instructors to check gun fit and shooting technique. Pre-registration is needed and may be made by calling the Idaho Department of Fish and Game, 769-1414. Space is limited and will be filled on a first call basis.