Overview
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This program offers outdoor skills for anyone wishing to enjoy the outdoors. Workshop offerings may include: basic fishing, beginning shotgun, kayaking, map and compass, reading the woods, archery, pond and stream adventures, nature photography, martial arts, outdoor and game cooking, edible plants, and many more.
Upcoming events
Deer Hunting Program
Learn all about deer hunting from experienced mentors! This free program is designed for adult women (18+) with little or no experience deer hunting. You can opt to participate in the seminar only or in both the seminar and the hunt. (Seminar attendance is required if you want to join the hunt.)
Part One: Deer Seminar (complete)
Part Two: Mentored Deer Hunt
When: Monday, Nov. 27, all day
Where: Devens South Post Military Area, Lancaster
What: Spend the day deer hunting with an experienced deer hunter as your mentor.
Participants must meet the following requirements by the day of the hunt:
- If new to the program, participation in the Seminar is mandatory
- 2023 MA hunting or sporting license
- Valid MA gun license
- Shotgun and ammunition to use for the hunt
The application period for this event is now closed.
Examples of BOW Workshops
Deer Hunting Seminar and Guided Hunt
Designed for adult women (18 and older) who are new to deer hunting, this seminar teaches deer behavior, deer hunter clothing, what gear to bring on a deer hunt, deer management, sighting in a firearm and other useful tips. The seminar is Part 1 of a 2-part workshop. Part 2 is a guided Deer Hunt for adult women. No previous hunting experience is required for the seminar. Registration priority will be given to new hunters.
Turkey Hunting Seminar and Guided Hunt
This is a 2-part program consisting of a 1-day seminar and a 1-day turkey hunt. This program is especially designed for the beginning adult female hunter (18 and older). Photographers and others interested in turkeys will also learn ways to find and view the state's official game bird. Participants may choose to take part in one session or both. For the seminar, no previous hunting experience is required. Hunt participants are required to complete the seminar to participate in the hunt. Hunt participants must also have a valid Firearm Identification Card (FID) or License To Carry (LTC), shotgun, hunting license, and turkey permit.
Becoming an Outdoors Family Camping Weekends
These events are designed for families who are new to camping and will be filled with outdoor activities that may include outdoor cooking, fishing, archery, and nature observation.
Fly Tying for Outdoors-Women
Tying an imitation fly and using it to catch a fish is a relaxing and memorable experience. This workshop is designed for adult women (18 and older) who are new to this activity. Participants will have the opportunity to tie at least two patterns during the class. All materials and equipment for the workshop will be provided. The instructor will answer questions to help get you started on your own.
Women in the Outdoors Event (WITO)
Organized by the National Wild Turkey Federation Central Massachusetts Chapter, and sponsored in part by MassWildlife's Becoming an Outdoors Woman Program, WITO is dedicated to providing interactive educational outdoor opportunities for women ages 13 and older and includes both hunting and non-hunting activities. WITO will feature over 30 instructional classes, seminars, and activities, perfect for beginners. Space is limited, and advance registration is required.
Event accommodations
If you have a disability or medical condition and would like to request special accommodations or will require translation services for an upcoming event, please contact Susan Sacco via email at susan.sacco@mass.gov.