MADISON — People interested in learning to hunt Wisconsin black bear have until May 27 to apply to participate in a Learn to Hunt Bear program featuring classroom and field instruction capped with a real hunt with skilled mentors.

“The Learn to Hunt Bear program represents a special opportunity for novice hunters of any age,” Keith Warnke, Hunting and Shooting Sports Coordinator for the Department of Natural Resources, said. “Working in partnership with many dedicated bear hunters local conservation organizations, wardens and wildlife managers, successful Learn to Hunt Bear events have been held across northern Wisconsin during the last several years.”

In 2014, DNR conservation wardens and dedicated bear hunters coordinated LTH Bear events for roughly 35 participants out of 70 applicants. Individuals who participate in these events leave with the skills and basic building blocks needed to hunt for a bear in the future.

Participation in the DNR Learn to Hunt Bear program is limited, so qualified applications will be evaluated and winners drawn and notified in mid-June. Documents and applications for the Learn to Hunt Bear program can be found on the DNR website and must be postmarked by May 27.

The program is intended for people who would not have any opportunity to experience bear hunting without it. Anyone who is age 10 and older who has not participated in a Learn to Hunt Bear event and has not previously purchased a Class A or Class B bear license, or applied for preference points may apply. However, applicants with a connection to bear hunting through family and friends will be given lower priority in the selection process.

In 2005, the DNR began the Learn to Hunt Bear program as another outreach program for novice hunters. Other opportunities featured in the Learn to Hunt program include turkey, deer, pheasant, upland game and waterfowl. For more information search the DNR website, dnr.wi.gov, for “LTH.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Keith Warnke, DNR hunting and shooting sport coordinator, 608-576-5243