Numerous archery education courses are available across South Dakota for those who need to participate in one before archery elk and deer seasons open this fall.
South Dakota archery hunters between the ages of 11 and 16, all first-time archery hunters regardless of age and all archery elk hunters in South Dakota are required to complete the internationally recognized International Bowhunter Education Foundation’s Bowhunter Education Course.
Hunters may apply for a license without course certification, but the course must be completed prior to receiving their big game license from the Game, Fish and Parks licensing office.
The IBEF course emphasizes hunter safety, ethics and responsibility, and offers plenty of advice about becoming a more proficient and conscientious bowhunter.
Upcoming courses include:
July 22 - three courses in Sioux Falls and one in Chamberlain.
July 29 - one course in Watertown and one in Pierre.
July 30 - one course in Britton.
Aug. 1 and 2 - one course in Rapid City.
Aug. 5 - two courses in Mitchell.
Aug. 11 and 12 - one course in Sioux Falls.
Aug. 12 - one course in Sioux Falls.
Aug. 13 _ one course in Yankton.
Aug. 26 - one course in Sioux Falls and one in Custer.
Sept. 9 - one course in Madison.
Sept. 23 - one course in Sioux Falls.
Sept. 24 - one course in Yankton.
Most courses require pre-registration and many classes fill up quickly, so archery hunters are advised to register early. Contact information can be found on the Game, Fish and Parks Web site: www.sdgfp.info/Wildlife/hunting/Safety/Archerycourses.htm.