The Bowhunter education course is designed for novice and experienced hunters. Topics include bowhunting safety, bowhunting laws and ethics and introduction to archery equipment.
Earning a Bowhunter Education certificate...
❌ is voluntary in Massachusetts. It is not required.
❌ does not qualify a person to purchase their first-ever Massachusetts hunting or sporting license.
✓is recognized in other jurisdictions (i.e. such as CT, NH, NY, ME, RI, VT, etc.) that require the successful completion of the Bowhunter Education course.
All courses are FREE of charge and open to the public.
Bow Hunter Education course listing
There are currently no Bow Hunter Education courses scheduled. When courses become available, details will be listed here.
About Bowhunter Education
The Bowhunter Education course was developed by the International Hunter Education Association (IHEA) and National Bowhunter Education Foundation (NBEF). Topics covered include the selection of equipment, bowhunting safety, ethics, and bowhunting laws. Learn more.
Minors
Students under the age of 18 must have written consent from a parent or guardian to attend this type of course. A parent or guardian should be present at the start of the student's class to complete the student's registration form or the student can bring a signed permission form with them to the start of their course.
Tips for finding a bowhunter education course
- Periodically monitor this page for new course offerings.
- Sign up for course notifications. We will let you know when courses are scheduled in your area.
- Another option is to take the bowhunter course in a different state.
Remember: Bowhunter education is not required in Massachusetts and completion of a Bowhunter education course does not qualify a person to purchase a Massachusetts hunting license.