The Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department is now offering a new way for Vermonters to obtain their bow hunter certification through an online-only education course.

To protect the health and safety of staff, instructors and students during the COVID-19 pandemic, the department has made its hunter education, trapper education and now, bow hunter education classes available as an online-only option. Although offered on a limited basis, in-person bow hunter education courses are still available, but students will now have the option to take an in-person or online-only bow hunter education course to obtain their bow hunter certification.

 

Students who want to take the bow hunter education course will need to complete the online homework found here: www.bowhunter-ed.com/vermont/ and then sign up for the course. Students will need to complete all the materials in the confirmation email they receive. The curriculum consists of a video presentation, several demonstration videos and a final exam. Once all components of the course are completed, a certification card will be mailed to students within two weeks.

“While our hunter education, trapper education and bow hunter education courses meet the standards and requirements established by the International Hunter Education Association,” said hunter education program coordinator Nicole Meier. “We realize that online learning is not for everyone, so we’re encouraging Vermonters who have taken an online course, to also take an in-person class if possible. At the end of the day, hunters are accountable for themselves and their actions to ensure the safety and welfare of all Vermonters, wildlife and our hunting legacy.”