Learn to Hunt

Learn how to be a safe and skilled hunter with MassWildlife's hunting classes and programs.

MassWildlife offers hunting classes and online resources that teach safety and skills to beginning and intermediate hunters. A Basic Hunter Education course is required for all new adult hunters. On this page, you can find a class that suits your interest or browse hunting and scouting tips and how-to videos to learn at your own pace!

Get started with Basic Hunter Education

Learn to be a safe and ethical hunter. Successful completion of this course is mandatory for all first-time adult hunters.

More opportunities to learn

Virtual Deer Hunting Q&A
Tuesday, Dec. 5, 6 – 7:30 p.m.

Looking for advice about deer hunting? Get answers from a panel of experienced hunters at a virtual mentoring session. This event is designed for new hunters. Feel free to join for a few minutes or for the entire session. Register to receive a link to the event; register now.

Small Game Hunting – Online Class
Thursday, Jan. 11, 6 – 8 p.m.
Join MassWildlife and the New England Chapter of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers to learn all about late season small game hunting for squirrel and rabbit. The course will cover squirrel and rabbit biology, regulations, equipment, where to hunt, tips for during the hunt, processing, and recipes. This class will be taught through Zoom. Registration is required; register now.

Need help registering? Please contact John at john.gutzeit@mass.gov or 508-389-6314.

MassWildlife offers hands-on hunting classes several times each year. Classes will be listed here when they are scheduled. Email astrid.huseby@mass.gov to be notified of upcoming learn to hunt classes. 

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.

Scouting

Learn what to look for when picking a place to hunt and get tools for pre-scouting and scouting in the field. Start with this video to learn how to use online scouting tools. Also see species-specific scouting tips for even more detail and on-the-ground scouting information.

After the hunt

Related Services

Image credits:  MassWildlife

Help Us Improve Mass.gov with your feedback

Feedback