Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection

NOTICE: COVID-19 UPDATE: The trails and grounds of Connecticut State Parks and Forests are open for solitary outdoor enjoyment. If you plan to visit a park, it should be for solitary recreation, not group activities. Please plan ahead as many amenities and indoor facilities are closed, and visitors must practice social distancing. COVID-19 Updates CT State Parks and Forests

Connecticut's Conservation Education/Firearms Safety Program

Effective March 16, 2020
ALL CLASSES ARE CANCELLED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE.
We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your understanding and support.

Hunting and Trapping Education

Welcome to Connecticut's Conservation Education and Firearms Safety (CE/FS) Program – for the education of hunters and trappers.

Conservation Education/Firearms Safety courses are administered by the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection's Wildlife Division and are taught throughout the year by a dedicated corps of certified volunteer instructors. Certifications are offered in the disciplines of Firearms Hunting, Bowhunting, and Trapping.

Sign up for hunting and trapping courses and advanced hunter education workshops through Connecticut's Hunter Education Course Registration System.

Select one of the links below for a listing of available classes.

Firearms Hunting Classes

Bowhunting Classes

Trapping Classes

Advanced Hunter Education

Licenses and Permits: Online Sportsmen Licensing

For more information about the CE/FS Program, contact the Wildlife Division at 860-424-3011 (deep.franklinwildlife@ct.gov)

Hunter Safety Manual CoverConnecticut Hunter Safety Manual: The hunter safety course manual is available for download in two ways. You can download the entire manual in one large zip file or you may download individual chapters.

Tree Stand Safety: Improper use of tree stands is one of the most common causes for injuries and death to hunters in the field. For free online instruction on the proper use of tree stands and safety harnesses, go to www.huntercourse.com/treestandsafety.

The Connecticut CE/FS Program receives 75% of its funds from the Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Program. The remaining 25% state match is derived by using the value of the services provided by the volunteer instructors. The Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Program is funded by the excise tax paid by sportsmen on rifles, shotgun, ammunition, handguns, and archery equipment.

Partnering to fund conservation and connect people with nature.

Related Information:

Related Organizations:

Content last updated on March 16, 2020.