For those of us familiar with hunting in Montana, the pre-season is the most crucial time for guaranteeing an successful hunt. It takes hours of practicing in the backyard to studying maps of country you are planning on hunting. Missoula will host a Plan to Hunt workshop series from June through October for adults that are new to hunting or just want to expand their skills and understanding in order to hunt more confidently in Montana.

Workshops are hosted and instructed by Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks (FWP), Backcountry Hunters and Anglers, Garden City Harvest, The Trail Head, and the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation. According to Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks, the complete schedule includes:

· Getting into the game
July 12—6pm—Pattee Canyon Picnic Area

Experienced hunters will share how to map, scout, track and better understand the behavior and movement patterns of the game you are pursuing.

· Packed and sighted-in
Aug. 2—6pm —Deer Creek Shooting Center (E. Missoula, off Deer Creek Rd)
See what gear is in the pack of Montana’s hunters and the firearms and archery equipment you need for the animals you are pursuing. Shoot at the range under the direction of experienced hunters.

· From field to freezer

Aug. 23—6pm —-MT Fish, Wildlife & Parks (3201 Spurgin Rd)
Learn the steps—from field dressing, to transport, to wild game processing, that help you move an animal from the field to freezer. This workshop includes hands-on field dressing and other demos.

· Locally grown and served

Sept. 13—6pm —PEAS Farm (3010 Duncan Dr)

Local hunters and Missoula farmers will show you how to take your harvest and turn it into easy, healthy and creative wild harvest meals. Enjoy a meal as you learn.

· Pre-season questions

Oct. 4—6pm —The Trail Head (221 E. Front St)
Join us for an open-session Q&A with local experts to help ensure you are ready for opening day.

· Celebrate the hunt!

Dec. 6—6pm —The Loft (119 W. Main)

A post-season potluck filled with locally harvested and gathered ingredients. We’ll share stories, talk about what we learned and plan for the 2017 season, all while enjoying food and refreshments.

Students can also opt to receive additional training and access to local expertise by enrolling in a more intensive field training and mentorship program. This option is also free, but space is limited. To enroll, email vcrowser@mt.gov or call 406-542-5518.

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