May 7 – 9 a.m. until dark
May 8 – 4:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
May 9-10 – optional days to stay and hunt on your own

In this workshop for first-time hunters, we’ll teach you all the proper shooting and turkey hunting techniques. All women, age 10 and older, who want to learn to hunt are welcome. No previous experience is required. 

Shotguns and ammunition will be provided, but you are more than welcome to bring your own cased firearm and preferred ammo shot size 4 or smaller. Archery equipment is welcome as well.

The first day of the workshop will cover turkey biology; hunting tools and techniques; where to hunt; hunting laws, ethics and safety; and calls and calling. Then we’ll head to the range to practice shooting, then will drive around to scout roosting turkeys.

The second day, participants will meet up with their mentors and go on a morning hunt, then everyone will meet for lunch and a bird-cleaning demonstration before the workshop wraps up. Participants can continue to hunt with mentors (as mentors are available) or on their own in the afternoon.

May 9 and 10 are optional days to stay and hunt on your own while what you learned in the class is fresh in your mind. Apprentice hunters would need to pair up with another hunter who has a regular, non-apprentice turkey license. Maps and spots lined up for you to try and hunt will be available.

Cost for the workshop is $25. Lunch will be provided both days, and light breakfast/snacks also will be provided the second day.

Participants will need to purchase a $15 spring turkey hunting license ahead of time. You also need to purchase a base license ($11 or $6 for youth ages 10-16) to purchase a spring turkey license. If you have not completed hunter education, you will have to purchase an apprentice base license.

Lodging is on your own. There are several nearby hotels and a campground with cabins. You are also allowed to camp in the parking lot at the office free of charge. Portable toilets will be available.

To register, go to Michigan.gov/DNRLicenses and click on the "Purchase a license" button. Sign in (using either a username and password or your ID and birthdate), and find the class under the Becoming an Outdoors Woman tab.

This class is part of the DNR’s Becoming an Outdoors Woman program, which breaks down the barriers to female participation in outdoor activities, while building useful skills, in a fun and experiential way. Learn more at Michigan.gov/BOW.

Cancellation policy: To cancel your registration, please contact our Customer Service help desk line at 800-737-6367. Cancellations made up to 14 days prior to the program will be completely refunded to the original form of payment. If you cancel after the two-week deadline, no refund will be issued.

For more information, email DNRBOW@Michigan.gov.