Feb. 16, 2022
Randy Zellers Assistant Chief of Communications
PINE BLUFF — The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission Gov. Mike Huckabee Delta Rivers Nature Center is looking for a few new faces to add to the bowhunting community in Arkansas. A special year-long mentored hunt program is being offered to take beginners from learning how to shoot a bow and identify game and walk them through all the steps needed to be successful in the field.
Bowhunting is one of the most challenging forms of deer hunting available to Arkansans, but with the right guidance even a novice hunter can make memories to last a lifetime in this outdoors pursuit.
Trenton Powell, educator at the center, says the program is part of the AGFC’s continued efforts to recruit, retain and reactivate hunters and anglers in The Natural State and build hunting and angling ethics within the next generation of outdoors enthusiasts.
“Hunting is a fantastic pursuit that can become part of a lifelong lifestyle,” Powell said. “But if you don’t have a family member or friend to show you the ropes, it can be intimidating learning where to start. There are a lot of videos and books out there, but when push comes to shove a hands-on, one-on-one mentored experience is the best and fastest way to build confidence in the outdoors. That’s what makes our nature center programs so valuable.”
Selected applicants will begin attending two meetings per month, beginning in March, to learn everything from setting up a bow, shooting, competing in 3D archery and hunting skills. They also will be able to go on several hunts with a mentor by their side to answer any questions they may have and improve their chances of a safe, successful hunt.
Applicants will need to provide their own hunting clothing and footwear, and the bow, arrows and archery tackle will be provided for the year. To be eligible for this program, participants must be 16 and older; all participants under the age of 18 will need a chaperone to accompany them at the workshops as well as the hunts.
Applications will be accepted at the following link: https://forms.gle/Xfedha66PKnkR1Qm6