Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection

Emergency Burn Ban In Effect 10/26/24 - An emergency burn ban is now in effect for all Connecticut State Parks, Forests, and Wildlife Management areas, prohibiting the use of all outdoor grills, firepits, and campfires, and the kindling and use of flame outdoors. DEEP and local agencies are working to contain several active fires across the state. Please avoid all affected State Parks and Forests, as well as the blue-blazed Mattabesett Trail. The Enduro Trail in Voluntown and portions of North Stonington within the Pachaug State Forest are closed at this time. Please note that today's forest fire danger report remains at an 'extreme' level. More information about the current fire danger, burn ban and recommended safety measures can be found here

Join Us for the First Women's Shooting Day! 

Franklin Swamp Wildlife Management Area
391 Route 32, Franklin, CT
Date: September 21, 2024
Time: 9:00 am - 1:00 pm

All Women Welcome at this FREE EVENT - New and Experienced Shooters! No permit or license required for attendance.

Discover the Thrill of Shooting!

Two female hunters wearing hunter orange with one holding a shotgun.

If you are a woman in Connecticut curious about bows or firearms, whether for hunting or sport shooting, our Women's Shooting Day is the perfect place to start. This event will teach you firearm safety and the fundamentals of marksmanship, empowering you with the confidence to handle and operate firearms safely. 

Why Attend?
  • Exclusively for Women: Enjoy a safe, friendly environment tailored specifically for women.
  • Hands-On Experience: Dive into a half-day of immersive learning with one-on-one and small-group instruction in handguns, rifles, shotguns, and bows.
  • No Previous Experience Necessary: All skill levels are welcome, whether you are completely new to the sport or need a refresher.
What to Expect?
  • Expert Instruction: Learn from experienced Hunter Education Instructors and Range Safety Officers.
  • Live Fire: Experience live fire sessions under direct supervision, with a thorough review of basic firearm safety beforehand.
  • Equipment Provided: Please do not bring any firearms or ammunition. We will provide all firearms, bows, ammunition, targets, and safety equipment. You do not need to bring anything but yourself.
  • Stairs Access: The public access to the range from the parking lot includes a set of stairs. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.
  • Other Logistics: A watering station, hand-washing station, and portable ADA-compliant bathrooms will be available on-site.
  • Outdoors Event: Our main event will be held at the outdoor range, so please dress appropriately for the weather and the environment. While our walkable areas are clean and well-maintained, please be aware that poison ivy may be present at the forest edge. We strongly recommend wearing closed-toe shoes for your safety.
  • Wild Game Lunch: After the event, enjoy a delicious wild game lunch provided by responsible hunters from our community.
Important Information
  • Age Requirement: Participants must be 18 years of age or older.
  • Conservation ID Number: You must have a CT Conservation ID number to register for this event.
    • If you have purchased a hunting or fishing license after 2009, you already have a CT Conservation ID.
    • If you have not purchased any fishing or hunting licenses in Connecticut since 2009, you will first have to register as a “New Customer” in the Online Outdoor Licensing System to obtain your new Conservation ID.
    • If you are unsure if you have a CT Conservation ID, please call 860-424-3105 for assistance. Please ensure you do not already have a CT Conservation ID before creating a new one.
  • Accommodations: If you have any special needs, allergies, or other considerations that we should be aware of, please contact us in advance and let us know (see contact information below). Your safety is important to us, and we are committed to ensure you have a pleasant and enjoyable experience
    • ¿Habla español? One of our staff members is a native Spanish speaker and will be there to assist if needed.
  • Getting There: The driveway to our parking lot is off Plains Road (directions). Once there, just follow the signs. A sidewalk will take you to our office building for check-in. Please plan to be there at least 15 minutes early to allow time for the check-in.
Join Us and Experience the Excitement!

Whether you are new to shooting or looking to hone your skills, our Women’s Shooting Day offers a unique, empowering experience. Do not miss the opportunity to try out this amazing sport in a supportive environment.

Register Now!

Contact: Maydiel Cañizares at maydiel.canizares@ct.gov or 860-424-3415

Participation in this event does not equate to completion of a Hunter Safety Course. However, after the event, you will be able to sign up for one if you choose to.

Content last updated August 7, 2024.