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Hunter Information and Training (HIT) Program

Beginning July 1, 2016, if you were born on or after January 1, 1986 you must have successfully completed a department approved bowhunter education certification course to hunt big game with archery equipment and the certification card must be carried in the field when hunting.
All hunters participating in archery-only hunts must obtain bowhunter education certification.

Group of HIT program participants posing outdoors The Hunter Information & Training Program (HIT) is responsible for the administration of certification courses required to hunt in many parts of the state and other jurisdictions throughout North America. The HIT Program, with the assistance of over 400 volunteer instructors, offers quality training and education throughout Alaska. The certification courses offered include: Hunter Education, Bowhunter Education, and Muzzleloader Education. The HIT Program is also actively involved in outdoor programs designed to recruit and retain new hunters into the shooting sports and to preserve our hunter heritage.

Hunter Education

The Hunter Ed course provides training in firearms safety, wildlife conservation, and respect for our natural resources, landowners, and other hunters.

State Shooting Ranges

The State of Alaska oversees three shooting ranges, each offering a variety of opportunities to the public. They are located in Anchorage, Juneau, and Fairbanks.

Class Schedules

Find a Hunter, Bowhunter, or Muzzleloader certification class in your area.

Bowhunter Education

The Bowhunter Education course provides training in wildlife conservation, bowhunting techniques and safety, and outdoor preparedness. This certification course is endorsed by the IBEP/NBEF.
Important - New bowhunter education requirements

Hunter Clinics

The Hunter Clinic series offers Alaskan hunters the opportunity to gain new hunting skills or sharpen existing skills. Topics include: Bear Baiting Clinics, Steel Shot, Sheep/Bear Hunting.

Become a Volunteer Instructor

Do you enjoy mentoring children and others in firearms safety? HIT volunteer instructors assist in developing safe Alaskan hunters, improving hunter ethics and responsibility, and passing on a valuable tradition to thousands of new outdoor enthusiasts.

Muzzleloader Education

The Muzzleloader Education course provides "hands-on" instruction on safe handling of black powder, black powder substitutes, and muzzleloaders at the range and in the field This course is required for all hunters who apply for and/or hunt in “Muzzleloader Only” hunts.

Women's Programs

The Becoming an Outdoors Woman (BOW) Program offers hands-on workshops that teach adult women outdoor skills while building their confidence and ability to get out and safely enjoy all that Alaska has to offer.

Youth Programs

The HIT Program is heavily involved with youth conservation and shooting programs, including: National Archery in the Schools (NASP), Shotgun & Rimfire Rifle Shooting Leagues, Conservation Camps, and Explore Bowhunting.

Crossbow Education

Coming in 2018, the Crossbow Education course will provide instruction on crossbow techniques and safety, wildlife conservation, and outdoor preparedness. In Alaska, beginning July 1, 2018, you may not hunt with a crossbow in any hunt or area for big game unless you have successfully completed an ADF&G;–approved Crossbow Education course.