Becoming an Outdoors-Woman (BOW)

The Becoming an Outdoors-Woman Program offers shooting skills workshops, hunting seminars, and other classes and activities designed for adult women.

Click here to join the BOW email list to receive updates about upcoming workshops.

Upcoming events

September 20: Women's Waterfowl Hunting Seminar, Georgetown – Join MassWildlife and partners at Georgetown Fish and Game Club (get directions) on Saturday, September 20 from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., to learn about waterfowl hunting. During this seminar, you’ll learn about waterfowl identification, regulations, gear, where to hunt, calling, shooting, and waterfowl hunting techniques. Registration is required, click here to register. 

September 28: Women's Pheasant Hunting Seminar, Petersham – Join MassWildlife and partners at Petersham Gun Club (get directions) on Sunday, September 28 from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., to learn about pheasant hunting. Whether you're new to pheasant hunting or looking to sharpen your skills, this seminar is designed for women who want to learn, connect, and gain confidence in the field. During this seminar, you’ll learn about pheasant hunting regulations, gear essentials, and effective hunting techniques—plus see skilled hunting dogs in action. Best of all, you'll have plenty of time to practice at the range and connect with fellow women hunters in a welcoming and supportive environment. Registration is required, click here to register. 

Deer Hunting Seminar and Guided Hunt

Learn all about deer hunting from experienced mentors! This free program is designed for adult women (18+) who are new to deer hunting. Participants must attend the seminar to be able to participate in the mentored hunt.

Part One: Deer Seminar

Saturday, Oct. 18, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., Shirley

This class will cover shooting, hunting gear, scouting, following a blood trail, and shoot/no shoot scenarios.

Part Two: Mentored Deer Hunt

Monday, Dec. 1 (tentative), all day, Devens South Post Military Area, Lancaster

Spend the day deer hunting with an experienced deer hunter as your mentor.

Space is limited. To be considered for this program, please complete the online application below by September 14. Click here to apply.

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.

Fly tying
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.

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 Ian Sypek via email at ian.sypek@mass.gov.

Contact

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