texas hunter education

[mr fixit]

My 12 year old is in need of the Texas hunter education training. I thought about having him do the online version, but I am leaning toward the self study book and field course. I see I can order the book from TPW, or some retailers have the study book and video.

My question is this; does anyone know what retailers in the DFW area have the book and video?

Thanks

[Greybeard]

Although we do stock a few of them, the original (1999) Outdoor Life "home study packet" will most likely be pretty hard to find these days at typical sporting goods retailers. However, as you've likely seen, it is obtainable from TP&W's Austin office for only $5.00 (which barely covers the postage; go figure).

Virtually the same thing is available for free on-line. Of the 3 on-line course option methods, it is the one we recommend. Begin with "Hunter Ed. FAQ's" page at http://www.dentoncountysports.com for details.

If no hurry, I'd suggest the $5 packet would be worth it, particulary with a 12 YO so that you can do it together as time allows. I guess I'm a little old fashioned: I still think that hard copy of the Outdoor Life packet is the best way of about (now) 4 "home study" options, especially for young ones.

Unless they produce a long-awaited new "generic" test, that "Outdoor Life" packet material is exactly what our current 50-question test comes from.

[grim-bob]

Coincidentally I just went through the online version (the free one on the TPWD website). Last time I hunted (other than pest control/hogs) was before it was a required item for my age. Decided I'm back in full swing this year so am having to go through it and get certified.

IMO - the free online version was just OK. It was pretty basic. Some of the quiz questions weren't covered completely in the material. Fortunately they were basic info that most people with some knowledge would be able to answer. Not sure how that helps the younger hunters. If some of the other options are better I would go another route for a young person. For someone like me it was nice being able to run through day 1 in a couple hours time.

Now the real fun part, the day 2 class. I'm guessing I will be surrounded by a much younger crowd. Someone please tell me that more people my age are found in the class

[Greybeard]

With States like Kansas and Colorado having "born after" cut-off dates back in the 40's and 50's, lots of older guys in the classes too. And some real "geezers" who want to hunt on some of the Corps Lands, where it can be required of all ages. Our "average" age student is 27 - what are known as "profilers".